Write Your Name in Runes

The runic alphabet, or Futhark, gets its name from its first six letters (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 often connected with Norse mythology. Scholars believe that early Germanic and Scandinavian peoples used the runes originally as a means of communication and only later for magical purposes.

Fehu

Fehu can mean cattle, gold, or wealth in general.

Uruz

Uruz represents strength, speed, and good health.

Thurisaz

Thurisaz refers to the giants of Norse mythology.

Ansuz

Ansuz could refer to any deity, but it was most often associated with Odin.

Raido

Likely an important rune for the Vikings, Raido signified a long journey.

Kenaz

Kenaz represents a torch or some other source of light.

Gebo

Gebo was used to denote a sacrifice to the gods.

Wunjo

Wunjo can translate as comfort, joy, or glory.

Hagalaz

Hagalaz is the rune for hail, either in terms of the weather or hailing projectiles in battle.

Nauthiz

Nauthiz means need or necessity.

Isa

Isa means ice.

Jera

Jera translates as year or harvest.

Eithwaz

Eithwaz is the rune for yew, a sacred tree used to make rune wands.

Perth

The meaning and/or translation of Perth remains unknown.

Algiz

Algiz denoted defense, protection, or self-preservation.

Sowilo

Sowilo represented the sun, an important element in pagan worship.

Tiwaz

The rune of the war god Tyr, Tiwaz was often carved on weaponry.

Berkano

Berkano was associated with the birch tree, with Idun, goddess of spring, and with fertility.

Ehwaz

Ehwaz is the rune for horse.

Mannaz

Mannaz means man or mankind.

Laguz

Laguz is associated with water.

Ingwaz

Ingwaz can refer either to the Danish hero Ing or to the Danes in general.

Dagaz

Dagaz is the rune for day or daylight.

Othila

Othila means inheritance or the passing on of property or knowledge.