Magin Rose

On 28th January we moved into the half month of Algiz. The rune is also known as Elaz, referring to Elk-sedge – as Algiz it is often more linked to the swan (and particularly to the swan maiden or Valkyrie).  The rune is often worn as a protective pendant and is thought to bring guidance.  The Old English rune poem counsells that Elk-sedge will burn when grabbed, this may be why Algiz is thought to be a safer ‘alternative’ to Thurisaz as a protective rune – it will only become defensive when actually attacked.

The fens, or marshlands are considered to be the home of the Algiz rune; existing where water and earth mingle, this rune protects and guards you on journeys into the liminal (try drawing it over your third eye before journeying to guide you and ensure you travel safely).

The rune alphabets have some cross-overs between runes, and Algiz is one of these – the rune Yr (Yew) in the Old Icelandic and Old Norse rune poems looks like an upside down Algiz rune.  It is also interesting to note that, when upside down it resembles the trunk of the world tree, with its three roots great roots extending downwards (I worked with the rune in both its up and downward pointing form in my recent healing work).  Because of its association with the Yr rune,  Algiz is often given a secondary meaning of Yew bow, aligning it to the hunt but also, again, to the idea of personal protection.

This half month is an excellent time to work with your own guides: strengthening your relationship with your fetch; seeking the guidance of your Valkyria and Disir.  In Rudiments of Runelore Stephen Pollington also indicates that work with this rune will help to strengthen your haminja (your store of luck, social capital and personal power).  All in all this is a lovely, positive rune; the colours associated with it are silver and the colours of the rainbow – in this form it becomes the rainbow bridge, the embodiment of your Valkyria or highest self, linking you with the divine.

Seek the guidance and protection of the Algiz rune with my guided Journey with Algiz.  This £2 download includes a short leaflet about Algiz, a space casting, the guided Journey, and a space closing.