11/19/2025
Viking runes refer to the runic alphabets used by the Norse people (Vikings) and other Germanic tribes for writing, memorials, and sometimes magical or divinatory purposes. The word "rune" comes from Old Norse rún, meaning "secret" or "mystery." Runes were typically carved into stone, wood, bone, or metal due to their straight, angular lines—perfect for inscription tools.
There are two main runic systems associated with the Vikings:
Elder Futhark: The oldest (2nd–8th centuries CE), with 24 runes. Used before and in the early Viking Age, mostly by proto-Norse/Germanic peoples.
Younger Futhark: The simplified version used during the peak Viking Age (8th–12th centuries), with only 16 runes. This is the "true" Viking-era script, as it was widespread in Scandinavia for runestones and everyday writing.
The Elder Futhark is often what people mean today when searching for "Viking runes" in modern contexts like tattoos, jewelry, or divination—largely due to 19th–20th century occult revivals. However, historically accurate Viking inscriptions (e.g., on runestones) use Younger Futhark.
Runes were not originally designed for divination; that practice emerged later, inspired by Norse myths (like Odin discovering the runes by hanging on Yggdrasil). They were a practical alphabet but held sacred or magical connotations.
