The Elder Futhark
As mentioned already, in the History of Runes and in the
Germanic Runes,
the Elder Futhark was the original form of runes which were developed. It
is uncertain where their origins lie, but it is highly likely that they
were created by early Germanic tribes. The Elder Futhark has 24 runes.
This "runic alphabet" got its name after the sound of what is
traditionally held to be the six first runes in this "alphabet":
F - U - Þ - A - R - K
The Elder Futhark is divided into three "Aetts". These correspond to three major Gods and Goddesses, as presented below:
First Aett, Freya's Aett
Freya is known as the Lady of the Vanir. The Vanir consisted of the second Germanic family of Gods and Goddesses with the Aesir being the most important. The Vanir God and Goddesses were called upon for rain, fertility, sun, good harvest, and good winds. Fair Freya is Goddess of Love, Lust, War, Seidth, and Death. Her brother Frey is God of Spring, Harvest, Fertility, and the Farmer. He sacrificed his sword for love. He is also the husband of Gerd, Goddess of Frost.
|
FEHU |
URUZ |
THURISAZ |
ANSUZ |
RAIDHO |
KENAZ |
GEBO |
WUNJO |
Second Aett, Hagall's or Heimdal's Aett
Heimdal, one of Aesir, is considered to be the guardian of the Gods and Goddesses. He is Father of Humankind, watches over the Biofrost Bridge for enemies, and is the God of Security. He is Loki's deadly enemy, was born of nine sisters, his teeth are of gold, he needs little sleep, can see at a distance of 100 miles away in day or night, can hear grass growing, owns a horn called "Gjallarhorn" which can be heard around the world and his sword is called "Man-head."
|
HAGALAZ |
NAUTHIZ |
ISA |
JERA |
EIHWAZ |
PERTHRO |
ALGIZ |
SOWILO |
Third Aett, Tyr's or Tiw's Aett
Tiw, Tyr, Tiwaz is a member of Aesir and known as Skyfahter. He sacrificed one of his arms to bind Fenrir the giant wolf. He is God of Justice, Council, Loyalty, Sky and War. To have him on your side in battle meant victory!
|
TIWAZ |
BERKANO |
EHWAZ |
MANNAZ |
LAGUZ |
INGWAZ |
DAGAZ |
OTHALA |
