To the Norse and Germanic peoples, the spoken word and the intention behind it possessed frightfully strong creative powers. Thus to vocalize a thought is to make that thought a part of the fabric of reality, thus altering reality to a certain extent. Each rune is a visual representation of the sound in a language, in essence becoming powerful physical representations of the spoken word and the intentions behind it.

So we see how the runes are thought of as not merely letters or symbols, but as having potent virtues within themselves of a metaphysical or even magical nature. The Norse and Germanic people did not use writing the way we do now, or even the way Mediterranean and other neighboring cultures did then.  Instead, runes were reserved for inscriptions of great importance and power.  Carved into stones to commemorate ancestors and mark the graves of heroes or in to tools or amulets for success or protection.  Because they had inherent meaning, they could be used to communicate between the natural and supernatural, as such they could be used for powerful magical spells.

Below is a list of all 24 Runes of the original runic alphabet, the Elder Futhark. In addition each rune has its primary inherent meaning listed, along with a number of other inherent meanings.

Modern Use.

Below are just two examples of easy ways to harness the power of the runes by incorporating them in to modern day life. The use of runes is only limited by the individuals creativity and intention.

First: Wearing a Rune of Protection Algiz pin can provide the energy for safe travels or the power to move through your days with confidence and courage.

Second: Applying a Rune of Wealth Fehu sticker to your work computer can unlock the energy needed for increased income and abundance in your business.

Below is a list of all the Runes, their chief attribute as well as any other prominent attributes associated with them.

	Fehu - Wealth Abundance, Luck, Circulation of Power, Success.		Ansuz - Wisdom Inspiration, Casting, Communication, Order.
	Gebo - Generosity Trade, Fair Exchange, Gifts, Balance.		Naudhiz - Need Hard Work, Resistance, Innovation, Personal Development.
	Eihwaz - Longevity Mysteries of Life and Death, Initiation, Spiritual Endurance, Immortality.		Sowilo - Success Honor, Confidence, Goal Setting, Guidance.
	Ehwaz - Trust Marriage, Friendship, Teamwork, Loyalty.		Ingwaz - Male Fertility Internal Growth, Stored Energy, Gestation, Fertilization.
	Uruz - Strength Endurance, Physical Health, Sexual Desire, Manifestation.		Raidho - Movement Journey, Inner Compass, Leadership, Decision Making.
	Wunjo - Joy Family, Harmony, Friendship, Optimism.		Isaz - Stillness Focus, Self Control, Ego, Personal Image/Personal Identity
	Peorth - Fate Destiny, Dance, Secrets, The Unmanifest.		Tiwaz - Justice Peace Keeping,Self Sacrifice, Positive Outcome, Honesty.
	Mannaz - Intelligence Awareness, Planning, Analysis, Mind & Memory		Dagaz - Hope Awakening, Enlightenment, Clarity, Consciousness.
	Thurisaz - Destruction Breaking Resistance, Breakthrough, Unconscious Forces, Conflicts.		Kenaz - Creativity Knowledge, Intuition, Opportunity, Teaching/Learning.
	Hagalaz - Change Disruption, The Uncontrollable, Trails, Completion.		Jera - Harvest Farming, Seasons, Reaping Rewards, Cycles.
	Algiz - Protection Higher Self, Awakening, Safety, Shelter.		Berkanan - Female Fertility Birth, Motherhood, Gardening, Growth.
	Laguz - Healing Life Energy, Renewal, Dreams, Unconscious Growth.		Othalan - Ancestors Inheritance, Heritage, Values, Group Order.