Category: Runes

Using Thurisaz as a Weapon Against Depression

Thunder storm on Summer Solstice.
Allegany, New York 2021

Depression is a hell of a drug.

Sometimes it hits you like a freight train and other times it faintly lingers around like the smell of a cigarette.

In these moments when we feel ourselves slipping off of the righteous path and into apathetic dreariness, we must acknowledge the negative patterns within our thinking and refuse to give energy to the turbulence created by them. Instead of trying to think your way out of these situations (which always inevitably allows the situation to develop into more stagnant, philosophical loathing), try and act yourself willingly and directly into a more positive mindset.

Invoke and meditate on the mighty Thurisaz (ᚦ) to banish all weak and self deprecating thoughts from your mind, then let this fiery power grow within you and forcefully push the mental fetters away. You can even attempt to crush them then and there.

When you feel the power of this internal Hammer/Thunder build up inside of you then you can directly propel yourself into motion and attack your days goals without any fetters weighing on your soul. By simply acting and not thinking, you will be able to to drag the mind out of the mud and get the wheels rolling again. This can be symbolized by the ancient chariot, with the horse representing the power of the Will and the rider representing the mind; which can only be as “thunderous” and powerful as the horse which drives it.

This indicates a separate function and metaphysical difference of mind and Will, but this is for another time…

In summary, don’t sit there and think. Just act. Retrospectively use moments of depression creatively and actively. Learn to enjoy the opportunity and challenge they present and transmute (ᚺ) these times into moments of personal growth. As you overcome depressive patterns (one step at a time) you will begin to heal and mend the negative habits that have formed over many years. As this personal awareness and positive action develops within,  you will find yourself falling less and less into the snares of internal self damnation and eventually free yourself of this detrimental force on the Will.

Good luck to everyone on their path of power, and may your Will be known upon the Earth…

Eagle Bindrune

From ‘Runes, Bindrunes and Hahalruna : European Sorcery and Divination’ Page. 102

The “Eagle” bindrune was created using the Proto-Germanic word Arô meaning Eagle. It consists of the runes ᚨ ᚱ ᛟ ; with inverted ᛘ runes added to enhance visualization and intent. This bindrune was made in the linear form, with additional enhancements to intensify and complete the spell. This symbol is used to deepen spiritual connections to the ancestral lineage and to draw wisdom from the past. Meditate on this rune to conjure memories of past lives and incarnations.

The Eagle represents our Higher self rising from the talons of Death; traveling into the spiritual realm and passing through the stages of rebirth. We are physically (ᛟ) gripped by the talons of death (ᛣ) and thrust upward (ᚱ) into the next form; the process of the reincarnation of the Spirit (ᚨ). The twelve dots represent the twelve months of the year, which reemerge endlessly like our spiritual essence. Additional (ᚨ) runes have been added for wings, signifying the breath/spirit travelling upward after death. In total this gives us four (ᚨ) runes at the crown of the bindrune, indicating the unified order of the spirit reemerging.

The eagle is a totemic animal of Odin, who takes on this form in the Eddas. The Eagle watches everything above the World Tree, soaring high above all realms like the All Seeing Eye of Odin. This Eagle delivers messages from the higher reaches of the cosmos and is revered for its wisdom and majesty. The veneration of Odin as the Great Ancestor is acknowledged through this bindrune and will enhance connections with Odinic or ancestral forces.

Fire of Creation Bindrune

From ‘Runes, Bindrunes and Hahalruna : European Sorcery and Divination’ Page. 108

This bindrune consists of a central ᚱ rune extending into a ᛋ rune. One interpretation would be that this bindrune is a spell for controlling fire or solar forces. Use this bindrune to enhance control over the fiery and creative aspects of life.

This can be a handy talisman to carry with you on your travels. Both of these runes are positive and triumphant; they will aid and protect you in new environments. You can wear this amulet around the neck for extra strength in winter months, as it will carry the powers of the sun within it. To charge, leave near fire or in direct sunlight.

Loki Bindrune

From ‘Runes, Bindrunes and Hahalruna : European Sorcery and Divination’ Page. 118

This bindrune is used to invoke Loki and associated powers. Carve this into wood, stone or bone, and place it anywhere on your altar with an offering bowl in front of it. Offerings to Loki commonly consist of coins, stones, and knotted ropes. The bindrune consists of the name ᛚ ᛟ ᚲ ᛁ and can be used as a conduit for quick connections to Lokian forces. Most Pagans are shy to working with Loki, but I have found it very useful at certain times, as Loki can be an archetype for indomitable freedom and individuality.

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Hurnaz (Cernunnos) Bindrune

From ‘Runes, Bindrunes and Hahalruna : European Sorcery and Divination’ Page. 116

This bindrune reads Hurnaz and consists of the runes ᚺ ᚢ ᚱ ᚾ ᚨ ᛉ. This symbol is used to attract or invoke the Wild Spirit of the forest and all associated guardians therein. Hurnaz is a Germanic title for this force, meaning “Horn.” This is a direct translation of the powers represented by the Celtic god Cernunnos. Carve this on any tree near the perimeter of your property that borders the forest; it will invoke good luck and protection from the Forest Gods.

When used in ritual, place a talisman of wood, stone or bone with this symbol carved into it on each cardinal point of the work space. This will create a charged area of focus and intensity for you to carry out your functions in. In this space, you can be assured that no detrimental outside forces are granted access to you or your sacred enclosure. All powers of ill intent will be repelled by the presence of these runes around your work space. This can also be painted on the skin for the same purpose; being especially handy when working alone in the woods. Paint with whatever materials you have available to you. Ideally, use ash, blood, or both to create a usable paint.

Solar Eye of Odin

From ‘Runes, Bindrunes and Hahalruna : European Sorcery and Divination’ Page. 109

This radial incantation is a spell to invoke the Solar Eye of Odin. It consists of a central Sun with four protruding (ᚦ) runes at each cardinal point, symbolizing defensive forces and cultivation of the sorcerers willpower. Additional defensive (ᛉ) runes have been added with four rotating (ᚨ) runes symbolizing the eternal cycle of the ancestral spirit. This is my personal rendition of the eye that Odin retains, representing our “solar” awareness.

According to the myths, we can equate Odin’s eyes to the Sun and Moon. The Sun of course being the eye he keeps, and the Moon being the eye he sacrifices to the Well of Mimir. This Well symbolizes darkness, mystery, and occult knowledge; a place that all Odinists must sacrifice half of themselves to in order to achieve the Wotanic state.

Etch this symbol into wood, stone, or bone to enhance Odinic visions and forces during meditation and ritual. This bindrune can also be worn as an amulet or drawn in blood or ash on the forehead; serving as a third eye to gaze into the divine. The swirling wheel of ancestral time exists here and all that has come to pass can be accessed through the cosmic Solar Eye. This bindrune can be used to enhance control of the Will and serve as a conduit for vision quests.

Mannaz – Rune of Humanity

Mannaz is the rune of humanity. It represents the vessel in which the spirit is carried and the critical analysis we can apply to the world around us. Mannaz is the ability to articulate and grasp esoteric knowledge, become aware of natures’ patterns, and form practical responses to those patterns. It is a rune of magical abilities and superior memory; associated with knowledge, thinking, and interdependence with the forces of nature.

Mannaz represents the unique conductivity, receptiveness and intellectual capacity within us. It also symbolizes the importance of finding control over that heavenly conductivity. Some say this means to equalize the “male” and “female” aspects of the self, but  I think this control is more concentrated within that category in which we fit. Both energies (male/female) are valuable as separate entities in their own right; each having their own physical, emotional, and spiritual needs and requirements. The Mannaz rune represents those energies coming together in the creation and preservation of the divine spark.

Overlooking, renouncing or ignoring the powers of the sexes in magic (or spirituality) is to miss the divinity held within both individually. In this respect, we should celebrate our physical incarnation and hold our biological strengths in high regard; recognizing the powers held within them both. Nature has suggested separate requirements for the sexes, and these are all necessary for the manifestation, cultivation and propulsion of Humanity. Mannaz signifies our journeys coming together equally to manifest creation and ascension.

Mannaz is the rune of intellect, logic and reason. Mannaz represents the sacred structure of mankind; symbolizing the intelligence, awareness and technical abilities we possess. These abilities distinguish humanity from the rest of the animal kingdom, who we are closely associated with in many ways, shapes, and forms. In the order of the Futhark, the Mannaz rune appears right after the (ᛖ) rune Ehwaz, which symbolizes animals. This close proximity (and similar shape) suggest a similar origin or purpose,  but distinct separation.

Nauthiz – Rune of Resistance

Nauthiz is the rune of need; a fairly vague and unclear rune when approached for the first time. However, this “need” has a clear, yet deep and esoteric connotation associated with it. Nauthiz is above all, a force of resistance and resilience. It symbolizes obstacles within our lives, and the deep inherent “need” for these obstacles in order for us to grow. This is a required force of resistance, causing ones inner fire to be cultivated and  strengthened.

Nauthiz can be applied to conflicts of the material or spiritual, symbolizing the changes happening during these conflicts. The conquering of these forces provides the “need-fire” creation within us; the unlocked power and function of Nauthiz. With this fire within us, we can keep climbing the ladder of defeated obstacles, eventually freeing ourselves of the need to incarnate; riding forever on the Eternal Winds of Wotan. Nauthiz symbolizes the hardships required for us to grow and reach further stages of development.

Without moments of darkness and uncertainty we would be robbed of our ability to grow and appreciate that growth. The only way to truly understand and strive for feelings of power and accomplishment is to be at odds with the possibility of failure; and perhaps even humiliation and shame. Nauthiz represents those moments in our lives when we have the opportunity to truly prove our worth to ourselves, and to the Gods. Nauthiz supplies us with moments to shine, as well as moments to fall.

Nauthiz is a rune of effort, or lack thereof. Nauthiz can be visualized with the saying “to light a fire under ones ass;”  something that’s meant to combat stagnation and laziness. Obstacles can crush ones morality and inner fire, so we must be strong and keen to recognize these moments to show our strength and power of will. With persistence and consistency in action, we can achieve great feats and feelings of power.

By consistently conquering obstacles, we ensure our inner fire stays strong and bright, providing us with powerful and creative energies for the future. Nauthiz is a reminder of what must be done in order to achieve our goals, and a reminder of the hard work that lies ahead of us in our journey toward the Ultimate Truth.  By constantly destroying the obstacles in front of us, we can remove any feelings of restraint and uncertainty in life; curbing all feelings of anxiety.

Nauthiz represents the development of your magical ability; meaning your ability to change and alter the circumstances in your life and surroundings. True ascension and spiritual cultivation is a warlike process on many levels, with your greatest enemy being yourself and your human condition. We battle the hindering aspects of ourselves in order to achieve victory and personal mastery; a state of ecstasy that is crystalline and unchangeable. Do not fear Nauthiz, for it is one of the greatest teachers and conduits of growth.