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Modern manifestations |
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Symbols |
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Runes are the characters of three ancient alphabets: Teutonic (contains 24 letters) Scandinavian (16 letters) Anglo Saxon (32 letters) Their origins are hotly debated among academics and rival pagan groups as coming from Latin, Greek or Northern Italic. They generally have an angular design which only rarely uses curves. Archaeologically, runes tend to be associated mostly with the practical marking of property or monuments, but many pagan beliefs associate runes with a mystical power of divination. When used in this way, they are supposed to help determine future events or indicate the best course of action. Pagans often refer to the runes as The Elder Futhark (Teutonic), The Anglo Saxon Futhorc (Anglo Saxon) or The Younger Futhark (Scandinavian). The words Futhark and Futhorc relate to the first series of letters in those alphabets. One way in which we know about the mystic element of runes is through the claim by the Christian church that they were used for casting spells and talking to the devil – or is this Christian propaganda again? Star signsThe pentangle is an ancient five-pointed star, which is often used as a sign of paganism. Seen by many pagans and alternative communities as a powerful symbol, the pentangle can be interpreted in several ways. In some depictions there is a point at the top which can signify a head, spirit, goddess or god, with the other four points signifying elements such as water, fire, earth and air. Some believe that inverting the pentangle, an image used by some occultist groups, is akin to inverting a Christian cross, namely inviting evil forces. When the star shape is also seen within an enclosing circle it is referred to as a pentacle. [top]All the runesFehu Secure your possessions before you start anything new. Uruz Act decisively and live life to the full. Thurisaz Overcome a big life obstacle to bring about change for the better. Ansuz Follow your insight; successful leadership is in your grasp. Raido Get moving – start your journey towards deeper knowledge and wisdom. Kenaz Be ingenious and shift your attention on to new opportunities. Gebo Commitment to others through the mutual exchange of gifts. Wunjo You will receive recognition for what you’ve done. Hagalaz This is your wake up call. It's time to break habits and change things for the better. Naupiz You need more from life. Start doing the things that make you feel happy and fulfilled. Isa Slow down – good things come to those who wait. Jera You'll be rewarded for your patience. Eihwaz Trust that you are being protected. It's time to pursue your goals and make them real. Pertho Stop trying to understand the inexplicable. Trust that fate will be creative and lead you in the right direction. Algiz Realise the effects your actions have on other people. Look out for yourself or others. Sowulo What will make you complete? You’re on your way to making this happen. Teiwaz You know exactly what you’ve given up and why. Be proud of yourself. Berkana Your actions will be fruitful and prosperous. Ehwaz With power comes responsibility. Help yourself and others. Mannaz Make a really big difference that will benefit others in your community. Laguz Look inwards and confront your fears so that you can really understand yourself and others. Inguz Tie up any loose ends, be productive and enjoy an anxiety-free time. Oagaz Your life is fulfilled and full of happiness and joy. Opila Your adventures in life have made you to realise there is no place like home. [top] |
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