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: Unknowable
The Blank Rune means the unknowable and unseen are active in your life at this time. In the beginning there was nothing, and in the end, nothing remains. Control can not be used on that which does not yet exist. As with the Fool in the Tarot, you may have to leap over the precipice into the void. But do so empty-handed and with utter faith. What becons is the creative power of the unknown.