Book: Introduction To The Runes Some Frequently Asked Questions by The Troth
A futhark is a runic alphabet. Just as the word “alphabet” comes from the names of the first two Greek letters, alpha and beta, the word “futhark” comes from the first six runic letters: F, U, Th, A, R and K. This flyer focuses on the oldest runic alphabet, the Elder Futhark. Different futharks were used at different times and places; the Elder Futhark is a little different from the Anglo-Saxon or Scandinavian Futharks.Where and when did the runes originate? The runic letters were derived from an alphabet used in north Italy, related in turn to the Latin alphabet. The letters were modified for easier carving in wood, and to express sounds not used in Latin. Their shapes were also influenced by preliterate signs that the Germanic peoples carved for religious or magical purposes. The oldest runic inscription, on a medallion found at Meldorf, Germany, dates from the first century. Use of runes in Scandinavia continued into the 14th century, and
in a few areas even later.
In Heathen myth, the runes were first grasped by the god Odin, after an ordeal in which he hung from the World Tree for nine nights, pierced by a spear. Odin later gave knowledge of the runes to all beings, and rune knowledge was taught to humans by the god Heimdall. These myths refer not so much to the origin of the letters, but rather to grasping the meanings and connections that the letters represent. This wisdom is a great gift to us.
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The Troth - Introduction To The Runes Some Frequently Asked Questions
