The runic alphabet, or Futhark, gets its name from its first six sounds
(f, u, th, a, r, k), much like the word 'alphabet' derives from the first
two letters of the Greek alphabet, alpha and beta. Each rune not only
represents a phonetic sound but also has its own distinct meaning.
The Elder Futhark is divided into three groups or families
called aettir (plural). Each aett (singular) represents a common theme.
Aett means eight.
The first aett is assigned to Freyja, and relates to the
personal aspects of day-to-day life. The second aett is assigned to
Heimdal and relates to progress. The third aett is assigned to Tyr and
relates to energies of dominion and the mystery of moving beyond.
The Elder Futhark is the oldest set of runes numbering
twenty-four. There are other sets of runes such as the Younger Futhork
with sixteen runes, the Anglo-Saxon Futhorc with thirty-three runes. Each
has similarities and differences but has common uses.
Runic script has been found on many artifacts. However, runic script may
be read from left to right or from right to left, even on the same
artifact. Translation of runic inscriptions is therefore extremely
difficult.
Learn more about each rune from the Rune Guide
- Elder Futhark obtainable from us at Mystic Guides.
rune pages > The First Aett The Second Aett The Third Aett < rune pages
The following are the first 8 runes which are part of the first Aett. Click on titles above to go to other Aett pages.
| Rune Symbol and Representative Artwork | Description |
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Fehu The first rune of the Elder Futhark is Fehu “fay-ho”. Its phonetic sound is “F” as in fence. It is also the first rune of the first aett. Literally it means “cattle” which signifies moveable wealth. It is a rune of power and control and is a sign of possessions/wealth earned. Magically it is used for achieving a goal relating to personal gain. |
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Uruz Uruz “ooo-rooze” is the second rune of the first aett. Its phonetic sound is “OO” as in boot. It represents the great wild ox of Europe called the aurochs, symbolized by this twin horn shape. It is a rune of healing, inner strength, and stamina. Magically it is used to strengthen the will and increase sexual potency. |
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Thurisaz Thurisaz “thoor-ee-saws” is the third rune of the first aett. Its phonetic sound is “TH” as in thread. It is shaped like a thorn. Like a thorn it is a protective rune. It directs defensive energy and protection against attack, both physical and mental. Magically it is used to alter the outcome of events. |
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Ansuz Ansuz “awn-sooze” is the fourth rune in the first aett. Its phonetic sound is “AA” as in thaw. It represents Odin, the leader of the Norse gods. It symbolizes knowledge, wisdom, and the power of communication. Magically it is used to make wise decisions and insure success. |
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Raido Raido “rye-though” is the fifth rune of the first aett. Its phonetic sound is “R” as in arm. Literally it means wheel and motion. It is a rune of travel, both geographical and changes in lifestyle. It also relates to rhythm and cyclical movements. Magically it is used as a journey charm, physically and mentally. |
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Kaunaz Kaunaz “kane-awze” is the sixth rune in the first aett. Its phonetic sound is “K” as in key. Literally, it means a fiery brand or torch to give light. It is the rune of knowledge and is related to inspiration and creativity. Magically it is used for creative inspiration or solution to a problem. |
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Gebo Gebo “gay-boe” is the seventh rune in the first aett. Its phonetic sound is “G” as in give. It is the rune of giving and connection. It relates to all matters of exchange between two people and harmonizes their energies. Magically it is used for contracts and partnerships to increase balance. |
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Wunjo Wunjo “woon-yo” is the eighth and final rune of the first aett. Its phonetic sound is “W” as in warm. Its shape represents a metal wind vane used on Viking ships. It symbolizes joy, pleasure, fulfillment, and fellowship. Magically it is used for fulfillment and joy in love and career. |
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