Runes are amazing old symbols that can be used for the purposes of magic and divine. They were used in the past for Germanic languages. Quite a number of distinct runes were developed but were later replaced by the Latin alphabet that is still being used for writing up to date. I really fancy their historical background and I think they are a great inspiration to us.
History says that runes were holy gifts to mortals and Norse God Odin was the first one to have it after wounding himself with a spear then hanging himself from Yggdrasil, the World Tree for one week two days.
The word rune means ‘secret’. And quite a number of pieces of evidence from iron age of the Romans and Germans suggests that they were used for magical purposes. They usually appear on amulets and people think they were carved to act as charms. There is a warning of the 6th century from the master or runes warning that there are powerful runes that have been hidden in the monument and will bring death to anyone who tries to damage it.
Runes were only used by a few people and only became popular in the ’80s. shops were filled with books, cards and rune set revealing how they could be used for magical and divinatory purposes. Quite a number of people use runes for inspiration while beginning their psychic path.
These runes work like the I-Ching when used for divine purposes, in that, they are stored in a bag then drawn one by one, cast them on a flat surface then read them one by one.
The historical context of runes and their transition to the Latin alphabet is quite fascinating. It shows an evolution in communication systems through the ages.
It’s interesting to note the resurgence of interest in runes in the 1980s. This revival shows a cyclic nature of cultural trends and the timeless appeal of ancient symbols.
The mythology surrounding Odin and the acquisition of runes adds a rich layer of cultural significance to their study. This connection to myth and legend enhances their mystique.
The warning from the 6th century about the dangers of tampering with runic inscriptions is a testament to the power and reverence attributed to these symbols. It’s a vivid reflection of the cultural values of that time.
Evidence from the Iron Age suggests that runes were indeed used for magical purposes, which sheds light on the beliefs and practices of ancient cultures. This is an intriguing area for further archaeological study.
The comparison between runes and I-Ching in terms of their use for divination highlights the universal human quest for meaning and guidance through symbolic systems. This parallel is quite thought-provoking.