Rune Eihwaz ᛖ

Rune Eihwaz: Meaning, Origin, and Spiritual Powers

Eihwaz is the thirteenth rune of the runic alphabet. It is associated with the colors dark blue or black, similar to the colors of Odin's cloak.

It symbolizes the yew tree, whose wood is both solid and extremely flexible. Hence, in ancient times, bows were primarily made of yew wood. Ullr, the Norse god of archery, is therefore linked to the yew, just like Odin. In Norse mythology, the yew is called "Yggdrasil," the world-tree that connects the world of the living and the world of the dead.

Indeed, few trees are as suited to this role as the yew, which can live for over three thousand years and is one of the most toxic trees in the world. It is thus considered a symbol of eternal life that triumphs over death.

According to legend, Odin hung himself from one of the branches of "Yggdrasil" in search of wisdom and knowledge. He is said to have stayed there for nine days and nights before discovering the runes in the trunk of the yew.

Odin is a disciplined god, demanding of himself and others. But he also knows how to give gifts to those who deserve them and enjoy life. It's no surprise that the Eihwaz rune is considered the rune of Odin.

Like no other rune, Eihwaz combines these opposites and can be both hard and flexible. Eihwaz embodies light and shadow, forces that cannot be more opposed. And yet, one cannot exist without the other.

Origin and Meaning of the Eihwaz Rune

The Eihwaz rune is connected to the world-tree "Yggdrasil" and symbolizes the world column, the link between the world of the living and the world of the dead. The vertical line represents the trunk, while the two hooks symbolize the connection to the respective worlds. Eihwaz grants the power to interchange and travel between these two worlds.

The rune provides deep insights into the mysteries of life and death, as well as revelations manifesting as visions. Eihwaz is like a door that leads from the human world to the world of the dead and holds the key to all levels. It symbolizes the opposites of these two worlds, which are nonetheless closely linked.

Eihwaz is a powerful protection rune, representing great resistance and determination. It gives the power to penetrate other dimensions, bringing enlightenment and clairvoyance.

It also protects the innocent and repels all that is negative. Thanks to it, it is possible to detect deceptions and neutralize harmful external influences. However, intentions must always be pure and honest, or the power of the rune could turn against those who wish to use it inappropriately. It is a powerful tool for those seeking wisdom and understanding, just as the god Odin did.

For spiritual work, the rune is of great importance and can be used in various ways, for example, as a healing rune. It is said to strengthen physical and mental defenses. It is associated with the heart and solar plexus, as well as the spine – the "trunk" of the human being, in a sense.

Since the rune grants the power to travel, it allows for deep exploration of a person's innermost being. Eihwaz brings to light what is deeply buried. It can clarify what you want to achieve in life and the direction you want to take. It reveals the fears and blockages that prevent you from reaching these goals.

You may intensely desire something while fearing that you are not up to it. Perhaps you unconsciously fall into the same patterns over and over again, which you have already recognized but, for some reason, cannot change. Here too, Eihwaz helps you take a close look and confront your inner demons.

For those who are ready to embark on this journey into their deep self and are sincerely ready to take new paths, Eihwaz is a powerful ally. The rune helps overcome blockages and take a new direction. The path may be difficult and full of trials. You might encounter people who do not wish you well.

But Eihwaz is also the rune of defense and protection. It urges vigilance. Those who heed this warning will be prepared. With its power, it will be possible to repel negative energies and overcome all challenges, even the most arduous. Success will be all the more beautiful.

Fixed Meaning of the Eihwaz Rune

Eihwaz indicates a turning point in life. It is also considered a rune of transformation, heralding profound changes. The rune reveals a person's true destiny. It also indicates when talents are being neglected and could be used more effectively. Those who are too attached to the past and resistant to new influences are clearly called out by Eihwaz.

However, if one is ready to make a fresh start, the rune stands with all its power and protection by their side. Thanks to it, it is possible to free oneself from burdens and detach from all that is negative, to start anew freely and serenely.

Reversed Meaning of the Eihwaz Rune

Unlike many runes that have a reversed meaning, this does not apply to Eihwaz as it appears the same in both directions. Therefore, no reversed interpretation is attributed to it.

Properties of the Eihwaz Rune

• Alphabet: N, E
• Element: Air
• Deity: Odin, Ullr
• Symbol: The Yggdrasil tree
• Interpretation: Balance, enlightenment, death, tree of life, and endurance.
• Stone: Hawk's eye, ruby, turquoise
• Tree: Yew, ash
• Flower: Lilac flower
• Medicinal Herb: Mandrake, raspberry
• Animal: Bee, snake
• Color: Dark blue, turquoise, green
• Body Part: Harmony of body, mind, and soul
• Fragrance: Basil, opopanax
• Tarot: The Hanged Man, The Tower
• Astrology: Sun in Scorpio, Moon in 2nd house, Pluto, Mars

Complete Runes Alphabet >

Further Exploration

To deepen your knowledge about the runes and their symbolism, we invite you to explore the following pages:

• Viking Runes: Origins and Meanings
• Norse and Viking Symbols and their meanings
• The Secrets of Viking Runic Alphabet