Rune Reading Basics

Reading Runes can range from very simple to a bit more complex. In its simplest form, you can pull one Rune and read it as a stand alone message. On the more complex side are full Rune casts where all 25 Runes are thrown, and any Runes that fall with their symbols facing up are to be read in clusters, or chapters, while any that fall face down are removed. A full Rune cast requires a more advanced intuitive mind so if you are new to the Runes, my advice is to begin with the below three styles of reading Runes: the single pull, the 3-Rune pull for situations, and the 5-Rune pull for relationships.

Single Pull

The simplest way to read Runes is to pull one Rune. Simply close your eyes to quiet your mind, take a few deep breaths, then ask “What do I need to know today?” or concentrate on the area in your life where you feel you need insight. For example, you might say “I need guidance on my career …”. Then close your eyes and draw a Rune.

In the above example, imagine you asked for guidance on a troubling relationship. Here, Uruz (Strength) was drawn. Drawing Uruz could suggest that while the road may feel bumpy, the relationship is strong and will persevere over time. Or, Uruz could suggest that you are stronger than you give yourself credit for. Your immediate first impression for interpreting how this Rune applies is the right answer. Trust your intuition as the Runes will treat you as a conduit by speaking through you.

3 Rune Pull for Situations

If there is a situation in your life that requires deeper understanding, a three Rune pull is appropriate. Runes are always read from right to left as depicted below and placed as shown from 1 to 2 to 3. This spread helps evaluate where the situation is today, what obstacle is in your way impeding the outcome, and finally, what the resolution will be if you are able to make peace with the obstacle.

In the example above, perhaps you asked about whether or not you should change your job. In the first position, we see Fehu (Abundance) which might suggest you are well compensated and are fortunate to receive many perks such as many days of PTO and flex time. In the second position we see Naudiz (Constraint). Since it appears in the “obstacle” position might suggest you have a tendency to knee-jerk react without fully thinking things through. In this scenario, you may be tempted to jump at the first opportunity that comes your way to leave your current job. Naudiz is encouraging you to pause and really think about what is important to you before you make a change in haste. In the third position, we see Berkana (Growth), which suggests that this process of exploring new opportunities and deeply evaluating what is important to you will lead to necessary growth.