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    Free Rune Reading Guide

    You’ve probably seen rune stones or Runic symbols scattered through pop culture. Mysterious hieroglyphics inscribed into stone, on film or in literature. Maybe you’ve been wondering just what these ancient symbols mean, and how to use them? In this guide, you will learn the basics of the ancient practice of ‘rune reading’.

    What Are Runes?

    Runes are small, smooth pieces of stone or wood engraved with the figures of the ancient Germanic alphabet. The Germanic alphabet was the predominant writing system used throughout Northern Europe, Scandinavia and the British Isles before the use of the Latin alphabet became the standard in Western countries.

    The inscription and reading of these ancient symbols are used as a form of divination. Divination is the art of interpreting signs and symbols in order to foretell the future or to uncover previously hidden knowledge. Runestones involve the reading of your past, present and future.

    They will help you to clarify or resolve issues you are currently addressing in your life. With proper focus and energy, these readings can make your spiritual path more clear, guiding you in the right direction.

    How to Read Runes?

    The Stones

    First, you have to find a set of stones. They are most commonly sold in sets of 24-33. Some people opt for smaller sets if it’s their first time casting, and more symbols can be added as you get familiar with performing readings.

    There are many different kinds of runic alphabets that can be used in rune reading so make sure to do your research and choose wisely. The most common kind used is Elder Futhark, the very oldest of the ancient Germanic language systems.

    The Setting

    When performing a reading your environment is deeply important, so it’s best to find a quiet and sunny area. Somewhere in nature is best, away from powerlines and technology with energy fields that may confuse or disrupt your reading.

    It is advised that you always face north while casting, as in ancient Nordic belief the gods of Norse mythology lie in the north. In this the way, the reading will be stronger and more effective.

    It’s also recommended that you cast the runes on your own, or with someone who is open to the influence of the symbols. A doubtful or skeptical person can easily disturb your focus while reading.

    Draw The Runes

    Before the runes are cast, make sure to clear your mind in order to focus on the issue or question you would like them to address. Keep this thought in your mind for several minutes, concentrating on nothing else so that the energy can be transferred to the stones. Try to focus on only one question at a time so that your reading is as clear as possible.

    Runes are usually kept in a cloth bag that you can use to reorder the set before you cast them. The bag is shaken, and depending on the kind of draw (method for casting) you use, a number of stones are taken from the bag and flipped face up. When casting, the stones are usually laid down on a piece of cloth.

    There are many methods for reading runes. The stones can be cast in varying orders and quantities before being placed in different positions in relation to each other. The most basic is the three-rune draw, but there are many number combinations with different purposes. Three stones are taken from the bag and placed side by side. The first symbol is placed on the right, the second in the middle and the third on the left-hand side.

    When interpreting the runes through this method, the order is very important. The first on the right represents the question you have chosen, while the middle represents a challenge you must address. The final stone will tell you what actions must be taken to address the challenge.

    Cast The Runes

    Rune casting is the most common form of rune reading, especially for beginners. Here all the stones are cast from the bag onto the piece of cloth. The ones facing up are to be collected while the rest are returned to the bag.

    The runes are placed in a line of random order and the non-dominant hand is used to move back and forth over the stones. With the question in mind, you should feel yourself being guided to one of the particular runes. When your hand stops, open your eyes to identify the symbol beneath it. This will be the answer to your question.

    Rune Layouts

    Similar to tarot cards, rune stones can be laid out in different ways to beget more complex readings. The most common form is the five-piece layout, also known as the Five Runes Crossroad. Here, all of them are cast and with closed eyes and deep concentration on the question.

    Pass your hands over the stones and allow yourself to feel the energy of the runes, letting them guide you to the ones that will give the answer to your question. The first stone you pick will be placed down first, with the remaining four placed in a cross (or diamond) shape around the center.

    • The Central rune represents the question or issue
    • The Northern rune reveals something that will directly help the situation
    • The Southern rune represents matters related to the question that cannot be changed or controlled
    • The Western rune is related to the past of the asker
    • The Eastern rune represents consequences which will follow if the asker does not change or resolve the situation

    In any case, it’s essential that you make yourself as familiar as possible with the symbols and their various meanings. If you have chosen to design your own set (a good choice if you want a more personal touch), you can find symbols and their corresponding meanings online. However, any set you buy should come with its own guidebook that you can read over as you practise.

    It’s very important to remember that when it comes to casting and reading runes, you should always wait until you feel compelled to choose or withdraw the stones. Like other forms of divination such as tarot, rune reading is a highly spiritual and intuitive process - they must be selected with considerable concentration and mindfulness from the one who casts them.