Full Description
A transformative perspective on the sacred feminine origins of the runic alphabet
• Explores the primordial foundations of the Elder Futhark in Mother Goddess lore, offering an alternative to the male-oriented ideologies that have historically shaped runic interpretation
• Examines each rune from an eco-feminist viewpoint, offering readers a more comprehensive understanding of their significance
• Shows how to interpret runes from an Earth-based spiritual perspective, exploring divination methods, casting techniques, and ethical considerations for rune readings
Examining each rune from a feminist and Goddess-oriented viewpoint, Anu Dudleyshows that the roots of the runes lie in Mother Goddess lore rather than the Odin-centric mythology that has long dominated interpretations.
Offering a more comprehensive understanding of their significance in relation to feminine energy and the Triple Goddess—the triad of Maiden, Mother, and Crone—Dudley delves into the primordial foundations of the Elder Futhark, intertwining themes of ecofeminism and Earth-based spirituality to provide a compelling alternative to the male-oriented ideologies that shape runic interpretation. She also addresses Odin's appropriation of the runes and their treatment in the Hávamál poem, highlighting how their meanings were rebranded within a patriarchal culture. Dudley then shows how to read and interpret runes from an Earth-based spiritual perspective, offering methods of divination aligned with the feminine. She also discusses casting techniques and considerations for rune interpretation.
Reframing the runes as symbols of our connection with the living world and setting aside male-oriented hero myths, this book rediscovers an ancient, intuitive, Earth-based spirituality that reveals the runes as representations of the Earth Mother ideals of compassion, wisdom, and justice.
Contents
Acknowledgments
PART I
Reclaiming the Runes for the Goddess
Origin of the Runes
Theft of the Runes
Casting the Runes
PART I I
Reading the Runes
The Maiden Arc: Birthrights
1 Fehu, the Reindeer Mother: Wealth
2 Uruz, the Primal Cow: Energy
3 Thurisaz, the Giants: Connection
4 Ansuz, the Voice: Agency
5 Raidho, the Wheel: Purpose
6 Kenaz, the Eye: Knowing
7 Gebo, the Giver: Gratitude
8 Wunjo, the Wish: Desire
The Mother Arc: Challenges
9 Hagelaz, the Hail: Disruption
10 Naudhiz, the Bow Drill: Need
11 Isa, the Ice: Immobility
12 Jera, the Year: Time
13 Eihwaz, the Yew Tree: Death
14 Perthro, the Cauldron: Mystery
15 Algiz, the Swan: Defense
16 Sowilo, the Sun: Truth
The Crone Arc: Relationships
17 Teiwaz, the North Star: Guidance
18 Berkana, the She-Bear: Support
19 Ehwaz, the Horse: Partnership
20 Mannaz, the Human Family: Unity
21 Laguz, the Lake: Wisdom
22 Inguz, the Portal: Fertility
23 Dagaz, the Day: Opportunity
24 Othala, the Homeland: Totality
Conclusion
Bibliography
Index
