Runes are tools of divination, based on the ancient Germanic alphabet. These symbols are carved into pieces of wood, bone, and crystal, or are etched onto the surface of glass, or metal.
What are Runes?
The etymology of the word Rune is Germanic with a meaning of "mystery" or "secret". Similar words were used to describe these symbols in Old Irish Gaelic, Welsh, and Old English.
A set of runes contains 24 pieces with symbols and some sets include one blank piece, all of which are of similar size and shape. The rune set can be made of a variety of materials depending on what the artisan desires. Historically runes have been found carved out of stone, ivory, bone, wood, and copper. Now artisans have expanded this to include other materials including crystals, glass, brass, and pretty much any other material you can imagine.
A Brief History
It was the 5th Century AD when Runes first appeared in the form of a tool of divination with the introduction of Elder Futhark runes. This system is still used today.
The Younger Futhark made some adaptations of his own. The Younger's system was adapted and used by the Vikings and other Nordic tribes and through to the Medieval time period.
Now, Runes can be considered a tool for personal introspection, in addition to one of divination. It allows you to tap into your intuition and gain insight into your own inner guidance.
Buying Runes
Purchasing runes comes largely down to personal preference. There are many different options when it comes to the material to select.
If you are a tactile person and impacted by the energy of objects, purchasing from a brick-and-mortar store is preferable as you get to see the product and experience the energy. That being said, the number of options available may be limited unless you go to an artisan who makes designs runes.
If you are happy to purchase from an online provider, the number of options increases dramatically.
Before shopping, it is recommended that you ground to ensure you are in the right space of mind to select the tool that is in your highest and best interest.
Grounding
Before shopping for your new pendulum, either online or in person, please take the time to ground yourself and to set your intentions for a new pendulum to be matched with your highest good.
When you are ready, sit or stand comfortably with your feet planted firmly on the floor or ground. Picture roots going firmly into the floor or ground while a golden cord extends into the heavens from the head. Take a deep breath from your abdomen and fully exhale. Repeat your breaths twice more.
Selecting a Set of Runes
Online Stores
Consider the following when choosing your Runes if you are shopping online.
Search by Type: Runes glass, sea glass
Search by Type: Runes Crystal
Search by: Runes bone
Search by: Runes carved
Search by: Runes brass
Search by: Runes wooden
Search by: Runes sets
Please note, these are just some of the options available.
It is recommended you click on the photos to see what the runes look like. Some rune sets come with carrying cases, and some with accompanying guidebooks.
Brick & Mortar Stores
When selecting your rune set from a brick-and-mortar location, it is great if you have a general idea of what you want before you go, but do not worry if you are unsure.
First, ensure you have taken time to ground yourself, before entering the store. It can be easy to become overwhelmed by the energy of stores filled with crystals and other supplies.
Scan the shelves for the rune set that catches your eye.
If it feels right, pick up the rune set with your non-dominant hand. Note how it feels to you.
If the runes are loose in the bag, remove one or two from the bag and hold them in your non-dominant hand. Return the bag to the shelf for now. If it still holds your interest, then continue to the next step.
Take the two runes in your non-dominant hand and place it up against your heart. Assess how it feels to you. Do you get a good feeling or do you get feelings of cold and panic?
Note: Positive feelings would suggest a good fit with the runes. Any negative feelings would suggest this is not a good fit for you.
Buyer's Regret
People who have purchased based on just looking at a rune set without picking it up and examining it more closely have expressed regret. When asked for more details about their experience, they elaborated it was not about not seeing the shape, design, or the crystal or other material, but instead about not taking time to "feel" the energy of the set.
It is important for you to feel comfortable with the rune set you select. Having an initial attraction is a good first step, but if the energy feels wrong, it is not a good match. Please do not jump at the first set. Other options do exist.
Using Runes
Using your rune set as a tool for divination is similar to using the oracle, tarot, and pendulum. You are connecting with your intuition to get messages.
Experts have gone to great lengths to write books, blogs, and create videos on casting runes. It would be a disservice for me to try to explain the process myself or to attempt to compile a list of resources here for you. A simple search will provide you with the resources to intuitively match you with the best resources for you to use to develop your skills.
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