The Elder Futhark runes are one of if not the oldest form of the runic alphabets, used by ancient Germanic and Proto-Norse peoples long before the Viking Age. While the Vikings themselves actually switched to the “Younger Futhark” (a shorter alphabet), and the Anglo-Saxons expanded theirs into the “Futhorc,” the Elder Futhark is the set most commonly used for divination today.
Historically, runes were a practical writing system—used for everything from grave markers to mundane graffiti (like “So-and-so was here”). But there are also clear instances of them being used for magic or charms. In some cases, the way they were carved-written suggests the writer was venting or focusing intent, much like we do today. Cultures change, but human nature doesn’t.
Just for fun, I’ve created this page to give yourself oracle readings using Norse runes. Hover over each rune to see it’s meaning. Or get yourself a reading below.1
English Name: Wholeness
This is a Rune of great power that indicates a moment of profound regeneration, a search for totality. It signals the need to become aware of your essence in order to express it in a creative manner, thus increasing your vital force. It also points to the need of admitting something that you have long denied, something that has remained under the shadows: now it is time to bring it out unto the light.
It might be prudent to stay away from a pressing situation, remembering that withdrawing at the right time is a sign of force and not of weakness.