Among the echoes of wind over the fjords and the whispering forests of the North, the ancient Norse practiced a deep and mystical tradition known as shamanism. Central to this practice were the runes, symbols not merely of writing, but of cosmic forces, spiritual insight, and communication with the unseen realms. These sacred sigils acted as a portal to the spirit world, offering guidance, divination, and magical transformation.
Unlike modern interpretations that reduce the runes to mere fortune-telling tools, their original significance was far greater. They were keys to the deep mysteries of existence, used by shamans, known as seiðr-practitioners and volvas (female seers), to traverse dimensions, speak with spirits, and weave the fate of men and gods alike.
The Shamanic Origins of the Runes
Odin’s Quest for the Runes
The power of the runes was not given freely; it was won through sacrifice. In Norse mythology, Odin, the Allfather, hung for nine days and nights upon Yggdrasil, the World Tree, wounded by his own spear, in a self-imposed trial of death and rebirth. Only through this suffering did he glimpse the runes, seizing their power and bringing them to humanity.
This myth mirrors shamanic initiation rites, where the practitioner undergoes deep trials—symbolic death, descent into the otherworld, and resurrection—before gaining wisdom. The runes, then, are not just letters; they are sacred symbols of transformation, mystery, and direct communion with the divine.
Runes as a Bridge Between Worlds
Each rune carries a sound, a meaning, and an energetic signature that connects the physical and spiritual realms. When carved into wood, stone, or bone, they become activated conduits of power, allowing practitioners to:
- Engage in spirit communication (through chants and galdr, the song-magic of the Norse).
- Travel between worlds (used in rituals to shift consciousness).
- Shape destiny (by aligning one’s will with cosmic forces).
The Sacred Futhark: A Map to Hidden Knowledge
The Elder Futhark: A Mystical Alphabet
The most ancient runic system, the Elder Futhark, consists of 24 symbols, each representing not just a sound, but a deep archetypal force.
Among them, some of the most potent for shamanic use include:
- Ansuz (ᚨ) – The Rune of Divine Inspiration: Connected to Odin, this rune represents messages from higher realms and spirit communication.
- Raidho (ᚱ) – The Rune of Journeying: Guides both physical travel and astral journeys beyond the veil.
- Perthro (ᛈ) – The Rune of Fate and Hidden Knowledge: Often linked to the well of the Norns, the Norse weavers of destiny.
- Algiz (ᛉ) – The Rune of Protection and Spirit Connection: A powerful rune used to shield oneself in spiritual work.
The runes were more than signs; they were living forces, each a microcosm of a cosmic principle that shamans could tap into for power, wisdom, and transformation.
The Practice of Norse Shamanism and Rune Magic
1. Galdr: The Power of Rune Chanting
One of the most direct ways to activate the runes was through Galdr, a vocal practice where runes were chanted rhythmically. This was believed to call forth their essence and influence reality.
How to Practice Galdr:
- Find a quiet, sacred space in nature or a ritual setting.
- Choose a rune that aligns with your intent (e.g., Ansuz for wisdom, Algiz for protection).
- Intone the rune’s name slowly and powerfully, stretching out the sounds (e.g., “Aaaannnnssssuuuuzzzz”).
- Visualize the rune glowing and vibrating with each sound wave.
- Continue chanting until a shift in energy is felt.
This practice was often used for calling spirits, inducing trance states, and working magic.
2. Rune Casting and Divination
Seers and shamans used rune casting (rune lots) as a way to receive messages from the gods and spirits. Unlike modern tarot readings, Norse rune divination was interactive, requiring deep meditation and interpretation.
Steps for Rune Divination:
- Carve or inscribe runes onto wooden staves or stones.
- Set a clear question or intent before drawing runes.
- Throw the runes onto a cloth or into the soil, observing how they land.
- Interpret their patterns and relationships, considering both individual meanings and their positions.
- Thank the spirits for their guidance and integrate the message into your spiritual practice.
3. Seiðr: Entering the Trance State
A more advanced form of Norse shamanic practice was Seiðr, an altered state of consciousness used for visionary work, healing, and prophecy.
Seiðr practitioners, often women known as volvas, would:
- Sit on an elevated platform (seiðhjallr) to channel divine messages.
- Use rhythmic drumming, chanting, and controlled breathing to enter trance.
- Journey to the spirit world to gain insight or influence fate.
This practice is comparable to Siberian and Mongolian shamanism, suggesting an ancient connection between Northern European and Central Asian esoteric traditions.
How to Learn More and Explore Norse Rune Magic Authentically
Recommended Texts and Sources
For those seeking deeper knowledge, primary sources and archaeological insights offer the most authentic understanding:
- The Poetic Edda & Prose Edda (translated by Jackson Crawford) – Essential texts containing Norse mythology and references to Odin’s runic wisdom.
- Runelore: A Handbook of Esoteric Runology by Edred Thorsson – A deeper dive into the esoteric aspects of rune magic.
- The Well of Remembrance by Ralph Metzner – Explores the shamanic aspects of Norse traditions.
- Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman – A compelling retelling of the myths, useful for grasping their essence before exploring their deeper symbolism.
Seeking Out Traditional Practices
- Attending reconstructed Norse spiritual gatherings led by modern Heathen and Ásatrú communities.
- Engaging with Nordic folk traditions and music that preserve echoes of ancient rune magic.
- Exploring archaeological sites where runes were inscribed on standing stones and ancient artifacts.
Awakening the Runes Within
To work with runes is to step into an ancient current of wisdom—one that demands respect, patience, and deep introspection. The Norse did not see their magic as separate from life; it was interwoven with fate (wyrd), divine connection, and the unseen forces shaping reality.
When approached with sincerity, the runes reveal more than answers; they transform the seeker, aligning them with the great cycles of existence. Through chanting, divination, and meditative study, one does not merely learn about the runes—one becomes a living part of their unfolding mystery.