The term "runes" refers to the set of ancient North European (especially Scandinavian) alphabets, which were used to write the various Germanic languages before the introduction of the Latin script. A special branch of Germanic linguistics that studies these runic alphabets and their history is known as "runology", and it was first introduced by the Swedish antiquarian and mystique, Johannes Bureus, who believed that the runic alphabets possessed magical powers. The earliest epigraphs bearing runic inscriptions date back to around 150 CE, and according to sources, the script continued to be used till the northern European cultures came completely under the influence of Christianity (until about 1100 CE). Although after this period, the official use of runes as an alphabetical script seems to have discontinued in both, northern and central Europe, there are clear indications that they continued to be used, albeit unofficially, by local people, especially in the rural areas of Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. We have substantial evidence to prove that, apart from being used as a writing system, the runic alphabets also had magical associations since historical times. There are certain runic epigraphs that clearly mention that the runes possess special powers to resurrect the dead. Therefore, an element of mystery was always attached to the runic symbols, and owing to their supposed powers, they were also associated with some of the important Nordic deities. And therefore, inscriptions written in the runic script were given spiritual connotations, which later went on to become the voice of an oracle; however, they never became a spoken idiom, used rampantly by commoners. ★ The word "rune" means "secret" or "whisper" and is derived from the Gothic word "Runa". ★ Each and every runic alphabet is believed to possess a special kind of power. Each rune supposedly bears the power to invoke deities, who can then help with various problems that persist in the day-to-day life. ★ The rune reader, thus, acts as a shaman, serving as a connection between the physical and the supernatural world. In this, the maker of divinations, also uses the power of his/her mind to connect with the gods and spirits. ★ Today, runic divinations are very popular, especially in Europe, and various runic reading kits and guides are available across the world, for those interested in learning. ★ Currently, there are three major sets of runic alphabets that are used to make divinations. ★ The earliest of these, and the most popular one is the Elder Futhark, which is also the oldest among the three. There are 24 alphabets in this set, and these have been primarily found on inscriptions dating between 2nd century CE and 8th century CE. ★ The second most popular set is the Anglo-Saxon Futhork that was used between 4th century CE and 11th century CE, and this is followed by the Younger Futhark, used from 8th century CE to 11th century CE. ★ It is important to note that these symbols were not used to predict the future, rather they were regarded as a way of seeking advice from the gods. Owing to the fact that the Elder Futhark is the most commonly used system of runic alphabets, this write-up will provide you with interpretations of the 24 symbols therein. The 24 runes in the system have been divided into three distinct families (having eight runes in each), each presided over by a spirit or a Nordic deity. Each of these families is known as an Aett (Ætt), and the runes that have been placed under these Aettir (Ættir, plural of Aett), are connected to each other, either by way of their meanings or through the special powers that they possess. Scroll down for a look at the Elder Futhark runes, and to know what each of the 24 symbols signify. Freyr and Freya are the two Nordic deities, who preside over the first family. They are the gods of fertility and abundance. Heimdall, according to the Norse mythology, is the watcher of the underworld and keeper of the rainbow bridge that leads to heaven. He presides over the second family. The third family that comprises the last eight runes is presided over by Týr, the Norse god of law and heroic glory. Blank runes are traditionally not used for divinations, and sources tell us that these are relatively newer additions to the rune sets we get these days. If you have a blank rune, save it in case you loose one of the tiles/stones. Traditionally, to cast runes, a priest of Odin would spread out a white cloth and lay the rune stones on it. Then with his eyes blindfolded or raised upwards, he would pick three runes from the cloth and predict the outcome of a venture or answer a question, based on their interpretations. Today, this occult knowledge has come a long way, and many people around the world seek help of these ancient symbols, in order to find solutions for their problems.