Rune Symbols and Meanings The term runes refers to the set of ancient North European (especially Scandinavian) alphabets, which were used to write the various Germanic languages before the introduction of the Latin script. A special branch of Germanic linguistics that studies these runic alphabets and their history is known as runology, and it was first introduced by the Swedish antiquarian and mystique, Johannes Bureus, who believed that the runic alphabets possessed magical powers. The earliest epigraphs bearing runic inscriptions date back to around 150 CE, and according to sources, the script continued to be used till the northern European cultures came completely under the influence of Christianity (until about 1100 CE). Although after this period, the official use of runes as an alphabetical script seems to have discontinued in both, northern and central Europe, there are clear indications that they continued to be used, albeit unofficially, by local people, especially in the rural areas of Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. We have substantial evidence to prove that, apart from being used as a writing system, the runic alphabets also had magical associations since historical times. There are certain runic epigraphs that clearly mention that the runes possess special powers to resurrect the dead. Therefore, an element of mystery was always attached to the runic symbols, and owing to their supposed powers, they were also associated with some of the important Nordic deities. And therefore, inscriptions written in the runic script were given spiritual connotations, which later went on to become the voice of an oracle; however, they never became a spoken idiom, used rampantly by commoners. The Runic Symbols: A Brief Overview ★ The word rune means secret or whisper and is derived from the Gothic word Runa. ★ Each and every runic alphabet is believed to possess a special kind of power. Each rune supposedly bears the power to invoke deities, who can then help with various problems that persist in the day-to-day life. ★ The rune reader, thus, acts as a shaman, serving as a connection between the physical and the supernatural world. In this, the maker of divinations, also uses the power of his/her mind to connect with the gods and spirits. ★ Today, runic divinations are very popular, especially in Europe, and various runic reading kits and guides are available across the world, for those interested in learning. ★ Currently, there are three major sets of runic alphabets that are used to make divinations. ★ The earliest of these, and the most popular one is the Elder Futhark, which is also the oldest among the three. There are 24 alphabets in this set, and these have been primarily found on inscriptions dating between 2nd century CE and 8th century CE. ★ The second most popular set is the Anglo-Saxon Futhork that was used between 4th century CE and 11th century CE, and this is followed by the Younger Futhark, used from 8th century CE to 11th century CE. ★ It is important to note that these symbols were not used to predict the future, rather they were regarded as a way of seeking advice from the gods. Read more at Buzzle: buzzle/articles/rune-stone-symbols-and-meanings.html
Posted on: Mon, 15 Sep 2014 18:12:36 +0000
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