Runes

Runes are proto-Latin letters used in various Germanic languages. They are grouped into regional linguistic families known as 'Futharks.' According to mythological legend, it was Odin who first discovered the Runes by hanging himself from the world tree in an act of shamanistic self-sacrifice. Nordic mysticism dictates that the Runes are supranatural in nature and are said to symbolically reflect hidden powers within nature.
== Facts: ==
-The oldest Runic inscriptions date back roughly to 150 AD. Modern academics believe them to have been Germanic derivations of Italian or Etruscan alphabets. However, one problem with this theory is that all of the oldest examples of Runes are up in Northern Europe, indicating that the Runes may have developed on their own apart from the alphabets of the Mediterranean peoples.
-Followers of the older, pagan religions of Northern Europe believe the Runes to be invested with metaphysical or even Magickal properties. Nordic mystics believe that they were gifted to mankind by Odin following His ordeal on Yggdrasil.
-Runes are essential in the working of Nordic Magicks.
-The god Odin is the originator of Runes, but there is another deity within the Nordic Pantheon who bears mentioning. The beautiful goddess Freya is said to have excelled at the use of Runes. Many believe she was so practiced in the use of Runic Magick that she even came to equal Odin. Pagan Adepts who follow Freya often become expert users of the Runes as well.
-Runes, because of their long, angular design, were perfect for carving. Runes have been found carved onto everything from bones and stones to trees and cathedrals. The Hagia Sophia, the gem of the Byzantine Empire, has Viking graffiti in one section thanks to some visiting Northmen.
== References: ==
-https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Runes
-https://norse-mythology.org/runes/
-http://runesecrets.com/
-The Book of Runes by Melville
Category:Nordic
Category:Magick
Category:God
Category:Pagan