Elder Futhark Runes: Eihwaz ᛇ

Eihwaz, often represented as ᛇ, is the rune of endurance, protection, and the connection between life and death. It embodies the strength and resilience of life, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, transformation, and the cyclical nature of existence. The rune also delves into the themes of spiritual journey and the balance between opposing forces.

The Shape and Meaning

The shape of Eihwaz resembles a vertical line with a slight curve, symbolizing the trunk of the yew tree. This form highlights the rune’s connection to stability, growth, and the enduring nature of life. Eihwaz signifies the protective and transformative qualities of the yew tree, urging individuals to harness their inner strength and embrace the cyclical nature of life and death.

Historical Context

In ancient times, Eihwaz was deeply associated with the yew tree, which was revered for its longevity and resilience. The rune represented the strength and protection offered by the tree, as well as its ability to endure and transform. Eihwaz was often used in rituals to invoke protection and to guide individuals on their spiritual journeys. The yew tree’s association with both life and death made Eihwaz a powerful symbol of the cycles of existence and the transformation that comes with them.

Modern Interpretations

In contemporary practice, Eihwaz is often seen as a symbol of endurance and the ability to withstand life’s challenges. It encourages individuals to embrace transformation and to recognize the strength that comes from enduring hardships. This rune urges us to find balance between opposing forces and to understand the cyclical nature of life. Eihwaz serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and protection on our spiritual journeys. It also symbolizes the potential for personal growth and transformation through the acceptance of life’s cyclical nature and the resilience that comes from facing challenges head-on.

Drawing Eihwaz ᛇ

When drawing this rune, I get excited. It means a few different things and it's up to the interpreter to know.

One direction this can do is renewal or bouncing back from a situation. It's almost the sign that it's ok to allow yourself the placebo effect, or gaining a second wind in a long struggle. For me, it's the ok to re-establish authority.

A second direction this can go is considering the duality of nature. As above, so below. Night and Day. Life and Death. Think about the other side of the coin.