Witch Runes: A Simple Introduction to Rune Reading

The witch runes are simple pictographs that align concepts with symbols that are more understandable in this modern world. I came across witch runes in my late teens and were impressed. They were few, easy for me to distinguish and easy to understand. In a way, the witch’s runes were a groundbreaking introduction to the concept of abstract symbolism for me. Since the witch’s runes are not ancient writing, they have no special pronunciation or sound. The titles of the runes are in English. There’s a lot less to learn here, but they’re mostly used interchangeably with the Elder Futhark in Divination. Additionally, as you become comfortable with the Elder Futhark, learn the Witch’s runes and notice how the two compare and contrast in your own practice. If you’re still struggling with the Elder Futhark, you can move on or step back and learn Witch’s Runes first if time and memorization are a hurdle for you. The version I use is in Witch Runes Described: How to Create and Use Your Own by Susan Sheppard.

rune number: The witch runes are presented in a specific order, similar to other rune series, although they are not scripted.

rune name: The name of the witch rune is in English and is represented directly by the image.

They think: Pictograms are not exact portraits of their concepts, especially since there are intangible nuances for each rune. I will give you some pictures of each rune that can help you associate them with their meanings. If you have other images that work for you, please contribute.

Remember: This is a list of some open ended meanings for the runes that work for me. You may add to these meanings over time, or change those that don’t seem to fit. So don’t forget to create a rune journal entry for each witch rune.

rune number: 1

Rune Name: Sun
Consider: The brightness of the sun illuminates all things and casts away the shadows of doubt and depression. The sun helps plants grow and thrive.
Remember: Positive. Huge manifestations are coming. Powerful, unstoppable masculine energy is at play. You will be given a lot of attention. There is tremendous growth taking place.

rune count: 2

rune name: moon
They think: Things are a little crazy. The moon waxes and wanes in cycles and the full moon looks like a circle in the sky.
Remember: Negative. Past cycles repeat themselves. However, pay attention to your intuition. Your dreams may have special messages for you during this time. There can be a lot of secrecy and mystery. The moon can be a mothering, nurturing influence, offering advice that simply must be followed.

rune number: 3

Rune name: Flight
Consider: Positive. Birds in flight can cover long distances quickly. Birds call each other in the trees, communicate and learn each other’s songs.
Remember: Communication, news and travel are in stock. Important documents can be signed. Things are moving very fast, so you’d better get started. A bridge was crossed. There may be distant family members or friends who need a message sent.

Rune number: 4

rune name: rings
Consider: Between these rings are unbreakable bonds.
Remember: Positive. You can’t do it alone, so form the right and lasting alliances. There may be a business partnership, marriage, or other team building. Seek a partnership if none exists in the matter at hand.

rune number: 5

rune name: romance
Consider: The symbol looks to me like a trillium flower as if offered by a loving romantic. The three loops connect in sharp points, representing the pain of coming together.
Remember: Negative. Passion has become obsession. Sex and romance are ongoing. Different people are brought together in a union, and so it is natural to argue. People who used to have different views are now trying to reconcile, but there can be defiant or jaded attitudes everywhere. There’s a raw, magnetic attraction that holds people together.

rune number: 6

rune name: Woman
Consider: This rune somewhat resembles a vulva and the crease between two legs. It is also the reverse of the arrow, which is the human rune.
Remember: Negative. This represents the passive, receptive energies that are often classified as feminine. The rune can also represent a literal woman related to the situation. Other feminine traits are nurturing, creativity, birth of something new, and purifying energy.

rune number: 7

rune name: Man
Consider: This rune resembles a phallus, a hunter’s spear, or a straight road.
Notice: Positive. This rune represents the active, dynamic energies often associated with masculinity. Actions can be decisive but ruthless. The rune represents a quick and fair outcome, and sometimes has an element of surprise. Something new can be initiated. Think of a strategy to achieve your goal.

rune number : 8th

rune name: harvest
Consider: This rune resembles a planter with a healthy plant whose berries are ripe for plucking.
Notice: Positive. The harvest rune represents the realization of a job well done. There is plenty of prosperity, family happiness and attainment of the next stage of development in the present situation. All your hard work will be greatly rewarded. Make no mistake, however, that good things take time to develop. Don’t rush stupidly or slack off.

rune number : 9

rune name: Crossing
Consider: This rune resembles crossing roads or crossed spears.
Remember: Negative. The path is blocked by obstacles that can only be overcome by changing direction. Be flexible, but know that sacrifices must be made or they will be taken by the random chance of the universe. Things can take longer than expected. Choose your battles.

rune number: 10

rune name: waves
Consider: The water is not always clear and waves often obscure the depths. Rushing water represents the uncontrollable waves of emotions. In many myths, the land of the dead lies beyond a body of water.
Remember: Negative. Things are unclear, so a period of reflection is required to see the situation as it really is. There may be a liar in your life or someone who is completely delusional. There are great spiritual forces of mystery at work, and you can feel pushed and pulled by these powerful energies. Misunderstandings become emotional. Great art can come from great fear. Spirits and ancestors can affect you.

rune number: 11