From time immemorial, man has sought solace and oracular guidance by interpreting and intuiting wisdom from elements of nature, like cloud patterns or movement of birds. Runes are one such oracle that emerged centuries ago to guide mankind to inner harmony and peace. Initially used by a smaller number as a means to spiritual enlightenment, today, runes are consulted by many to resolve relationship issues, health problems, career dilemma and spiritual quests leading all to self-awareness eventually.

The runes are fundamentally a sacred writing system with its script comprising 24 unique runic alphabets called the FUTHARK. They were used by the German tribes in northern Europe for divination and healing. Their origin seems uncertain, however, runic inscriptions have been found dated AD 3. The word ‘runes’ comes from the word runa meaning a whisper, a secret or a mystery. They remind us of our intimate connection to the natural world, to the realm of spirit. In order to experience the pure connection between the runes and the seeker, the alphabets are carved onto natural elements like wood or river stones through a personal ritual binding the two in communion.

The ancient wisdom believes that everything in nature has a “spirit” and when sought with truth and respect, the spirit listens and lovingly shows us the way. With its roots in mythic folklore, the story goes that runes were discovered by Odin, father of the Norse gods, through a shamanic initiation. According to the legend, he hung himself upside down on the great ash tree Yggdrasil, the world tree or the tree of life. After nine days and nights Odin died on that tree, but was reborn bringing back with him the wisdom of the world in the form of runes. So runes or the runic alphabets evolved as a spiritual compass to guide mankind. The runes provide signposts explaining lessons our soul has to learn through the journey of life.

So, when does one consult the runes? Whenever one has a problem to which there are no solutions. The runes offer subtle and profound wisdom by commenting on the situation which lends objectivity to one’s decision-making, thereby returning the seeker to a state of natural harmony.

But runes do not tell the future. Instead, they show us how to comprehend the mysteries of the present that lead us to tomorrow. So if you can’t hear that divine music of your own soul, tune in to runes and listen to what they have to say. You may find your song.

The writer is a runes and tarot consultant and a therapist who offers solutions to issues of daily life with the spiritual wisdom of runes