Taking Up the Runes: A Complete Guide to Using Runes in Spells, Rituals, Divination, and Magic

by Diana L. Paxson

Although many of us first encountered runes in J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, this sacred alphabet is by no means a fabrication for books or movies. Similar to Hebrew letters in the sense that each symbol contains a meaning that transcends its original function as a letter, the runes are practical, flexible, and effective symbols with a variety of uses.

Today, the best known application of rune lore is divination: chips or stones marked with runes are drawn, cast, or laid out in patterns like tarot cards. In Taking Up the Runes, Paxson delves into the ancient historical meaning of each rune and explains their contemporary uses and meanings. We discover that the real power of runes comes from inside ourselves when we find the wisdom and power within each symbol and internalize them.

Genres: Divination, Witchcraft, Paganism, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Magic, Occult

408 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2005

About the author

Diana L. Paxson (born 1943) is a novelist and author of nonfiction, primarily in the fields of Paganism and Heathenism. Her published works include fantasy and historical fiction novels, as well as numerous short stories. More recently she has also published nonfiction books about Pagan and Heathen religions and practices.

In addition to her multiple novels and collaborations, she has written over seventy short stories. Her best-known works are the Westria novels, and the later books in the Avalon series, which she first co-wrote with Marion Zimmer Bradley, then took over sole authorship of after Bradley's death.

Paxson was nominated for the Mythopoeic Fantasy Awards twice, in 1989 for the "White Raven" and in 1983 for "Lady of Light".

Paxson's non-fiction books include Taking Up the Runes, Essential Asatru, and Trance-Portation. She writes a regular column for the women's spirituality magazine, Sagewoman.

Paxson has been active in the leadership of a number of organizations. She hosted the first activities of the Society for Creative Anachronism, and was subsequently among that group's founding Directors and Corporate Officers when it incorporated[1]. She was the western regional director of the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America, and is a frequent panelist at science fiction conventions, especially Baycon, where she was the 2007 Fantasy Guest of Honor.

A leader in the Neopagan and Heathen revivals, Paxson is the founder of the The Fellowship of the Spiral Path and has served as First Officer of the Covenant of the Goddess. She has been Steerswoman of the Heathen group, The Troth, a member of its Board of Directors, and currently edits its journal, Idunna. She is a pioneer in the revival of Oracular Seidh, which she has taught and performed at many Neopagan and heathen festivals and retreats.

She composes and plays music for the harp. She currently lives at her home, Greyhaven, in Berkeley, California.

More can be found on her blog: http://dpaxson.livejournal.com

Reviews

[Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you can only afford to buy one rune book I recommend Taking Up the Runes by Diana Paxson. Not only because the author includes a wide variety of valuable information and suggestions, but because she extensively quotes and references many of the other most often recommended rune authors including Aswynn and Gundarsson. Because of this through buying this book you get the advantage of the knowledge contained in the other authors' books as well. This is a wonderful advantage for people on limitied budgets who can't afford to buy all of the indivudal books on their own. Although ultimately I do think getting a variety of different rune books is the best way to go, when that isn't an option, especially starting out, this is th eperfect book for you.
I liked the set up of the book very much, finding it both easy to use and easy to break down into small segments for an effective rune study program. Each chapter featuring two paired runes and including the Icelandic, Norwegian, and Anglo-Saxon rune poems, as well as suggestions for divinatory meanings and magical uses. Reading the original rune poems is wonderfully enlightening and allows the individual to get a feel for what the runes might mean on their own, without the modern filter of current authors' interpretations. I found it very useful to go over the rune poems for each rune and then mediatate on them for a little while and form my own opinions before reading further and seeing what the modern ideas about each rune was. As I said before Paxson includes not only her own ideas but also the highlights of the interpreations for each rune by the other major rune authors which provides a very well-rounded view of the meanings. While the ritual and meditation suggestions might not be to everyone's taste they do serve to illustrate the possibilities, and could easily be tailored to suit the individual. This is not a historical a study of the ancient runes, but rather a modern exploration of the uses of the runes in the world today and it serves that purpose very well. The magical applications are often aimed at very modern needs like car travel, and should be points of interest even to those who don't intend to use the runes magically.
The book was designed based on a series of classes taught by the author and lends itself very well to study groups, particularly those structured (as the author suggests) over a longer period of time. Ideally I would suggest reading it in small segments, either one, or possibly two of the paired runes, at a time so that you could get the most out of each section. Personally I have read it through, used it for a study group, and keep it on hand as a convenient reference. It is generally the first book on runes that I recommend to anyone and the first I go to to check anything

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Judging by the inscription inside the book, I must have bought it directly from the author about thirteen years ago, probably after attending a short workshop by her at a larger event. I have no real memory of it now, but I did enjoy this book, which I think is one of the better-written guides to neo-Heathenry around. It is written for a general audience, but not a lazy one, and Paxson has crafted it as a curriculum to be worked through in a group setting. Her approach is very workable and unlike many introductory magical texts readily adaptable in a wide variety of settings. Even her final ritual, which is deliberately a difficult high-level initiation (the sort of thing that auto-didacts always rush to try out first) requires working with others in a collaborative way that will weed out most of the premature aspirants and armchair magicians. From the point of view of someone who is reading the book, rather than working through it, the strength is that she draws from several sources when discussing the meaning of each symbol, and compares the different perspectives of several authors, giving the read a chance to analyze the rune from multiple points of view. I think the other strength of this book is neatly expressed by an endorsement on the back cover from Edred Thorsson (one of the sources she draws from): “The fact that this material was generated out of Diana Paxson’s workshops over several years speaks to its great value as a teaching tool.” This is a book on magic written by someone who has done the Work. Worth it for that reason.

[ᛗichelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ᚠ Taking up the runes was a magickal read from start to finish, filled with power and ritual for people at all different levels on their runic journey! Learn to pronounce them, the history, proper order, meanings, and lots of ancient poetry! ᛟ
ᛉ The runes themselves hold the mystery, and Diana L. Paxson captured a piece of this mystery in order to open the door for others. Taking up the runes is such an appropriate title, as anyone is capable, and those who continuously work with the runes will get the most out of them, better yet, give the runes away to others! ᛇ
ᚫ One day I wish to find others who would attempt the sacred rituals written in this book with me. ᛞ

[Jessica Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book!!

[Carrie Viscome-Skinner · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best rune teaching books I've read, and I've read quite a few. Each rune is dealt with inividually and one of the things I liked the most was that she sited other author's interpretations (many of whom's books I already have read) of each rune right along side her own. She also sites all the ancient text's interpretations as well, giving this book a very complete over view of the subject matter. There are also spells, rituals, songs, meditations, mythologies and any information one could think of pertaining to the study and practice of the Runes. If you want to learn about this ancient subject this is a great book to start with. Highly recomended.

[Lilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Most will probably recognize Diana’s name from her co-authoring Priestess of Avalon with famed author Marion Zimmer Bradley and continuing the series of her own, but Diana is also a Gydhja of Hrafnar Kindred, which she founded in 1988, and an elder of the Troth.

Laced with anecdotes, myths, poetry, original songs and sheet music, poetry, and history plus convenient exercises, examples and lessons, Taking Up The Runes would be a wonderful textbook for a class on runes or for self-learning. The book is divided into two sections. In part one, we are introduced individually to the runes themselves. In part two, we are shown original workings and rituals to bring the magic of the runes sensibly into our lives.

Diana introduces the novice to the runes and their lore and magic, but it’s also a wonderful addition to any adept’s collection. Taking Up The Runes is a wonderful workbook for using runes on a psychic, spiritual and magical level.

I would have given this book five stars, however, I have heard some heathen practitioners say that there are some problems regarding the lore parts of this book. As I barely know any Northern mythology, I'm going to take their word on it and say be sure to supplement this with original translations of Norse mythology.

[Scribblescribe · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was very difficult to read cover to cover. I almost put it down in the beginning stages since the explanations of the runes seemed to bleed one into the other. For some reason, the author makes it unable to be read as a normal text. This book, instead, should be used only if you are more than passingly familiar with the old Norse runes. This is not for beginners. This is a textbook and it's not meant to be read cover to cover. Instead it should be used as a reference book.

[Maya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Please read my review at Celtic Scholar's Reviews and Opinions

[Raven Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the only rune book you will need! The information is well researched, cross referenced with differing interpretations, and is set up to fully learn each time as well as combined meanings. This is a must have resource for anyone with serious intent to learn the runes. It also has some wonderful insights into the gods and the connections to others and the runes. This is an amazing resource! The other bonus for this book is that the author is not associated with (and seems to actively work against) the racism, sexism, and other bigotry that unfortunately runs rampant in the Norse community. If only there were more like Paxson! I look forward to reading her other book on the topic and hope to see more in the future.

[Astrid · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's a lot of good information here, and it serves as a great introduction to runes and some of the finer aspects of Norse pagan belief. She provides the perspectives of multiple other people on the meanings of each rune, and there is a detailed bibliography for further study.

It doesn't get 5 stars from me though, because like a lot of more modern pagan content, a lot of it doesn't feel right. There's a sense of forcing a certain perspective on how belief and ritual is done, or an appeal to a broad class of modern witches and witchcraft practitioners.

[Brittney · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a commonly suggested book for people studying Runes and it should be emphasized this book is *strong* in ritual. Many prayers and processes are detailed here, but I do agree this is one best for if you’re working with a group and can move through the Runes together, whereas I work alone and like to keep what I do simple.

[Leah M]

This was a DNF for me. Not because it wasn't comprehensive, but more about one of the sources that she continually uses, which is a known white supremacist. Additionally, after the controversial information that came out regarding the author, I decided that I could learn about runes from other books.

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

in truth, it's hard to know how accurate information is, especially in regards to ancient languages where such was different for each tribe, but a straightforward book noless, very handy. unfortunately my copy was leant to a friend I no longer am in contact with.

[Maggi Horseman · Rating 5 out of 5]

best book on runes.

[Lillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extremely well-written and chock-full of information from many different authors/researcher's into the Elder runes.

[Michelle Mormul · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is a very difficult book to get through. Very Northern European focused, good training.

[Alf Konig · Rating 5 out of 5]

I still refer to it from time to time. Solid. Highly recommend the updated version.

[Sharon Reamer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read this through once and again in parts. It's the third book I've read from a neopagan/heathen/asatru practitioner (the others being Edred Thorsson's Futhark and Katie Gerrard's Odin's Gateways, which I'll review separately).

The book goes into some historical uses for the Germanic/Norse runes, relying for the most part on the Elder Futhark, for which I was glad. It is mostly free from sentimentality, which was a welcome change from reading Odin's Gateways.

All three books offer interpretations for each of the runes, although Paxson lumps them in pairs according to their order in the Futhark rows - not sure why - to contrast and compare or offer uses for them together? Anyway, the lumping together didn't distract, but it also didn't help. To be fair, I'm only delving into the rune books to further my research for one of my novels and not to use the runes in a religious sense, so maybe it makes more sense to do the groupings for people who are meditating with/throwing the runes.

The interesting thing about this book and what makes it a very valuable resource for anyone interested in the runes - either from a practical point of view or just out of curiosity - is that Paxson compares and contrasts other practitioners' interpretations of each of the runes and provides a bit of history as well. I found this immensely useful and enlightening.

There is also a section on using the runes for different types of 'magic' and I found this to be even more enlightening and useful.

I can recommend this book without reservation. The Kindle version is rather pricey, but if you gotta have it, then price isn't the issue.

[Katharine Kerr · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book to study rather than merely read. I started it because I needed to do some research for a character in the (not Nola O'Grady) book I'm currently writing, but I found it so impressive that I've continued working with it. So far at least, 4 stars.

Update Now that I've finished reading through it, I'll still continue working with the immense amount of good material packed into these pages. This is, however, a book designed as a textbook with a heavy emphasis on group workings and ritual. There's only one of me. :-) I highly recommend it, nonetheless. Paxson has done a tremendous job of bringing together lore both ancient and modern. Unlike too many occult books, she clearly labels her sources and makes the distinction between what she knows from old lore and what she's taking from her own experience. The prose is clean and clear as well.

[Anjie Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very good resource book for learning the Norse Runes. However, I suggest exploring other avenues if you want complete information, as the author has a habit of giving a very feminine-centric perspective. Which, isn't always acurate, particularly in this case. Good book, good information, but doesn't give complete information. However, it is simple, well laid-out, and is an excellent starting point for learning the Runes.

[Ashton West · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this for writing ideas: to get a grasp on how the Norse magics would be interpreted in a modern setting. I was definitely impressed by the clarity and beauty with which she communicates all of this history and magic on the page. Definitely a must-read for those interested in Norse magics.

[Riobhcah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Diana Paxson's books are very well researched and this one offers a plethora of wonderful information on the Runes with many fascinating insights. It's well worth reading. This will be one of my reference books that I will return to many times.

[jack]

This was way better than I thought it would be. Diana takes a very comprehensive look at the historical and contemporary interpretation of each rune by a wide variety of sources. She seems inclined to let the reader feel each rune out and make their own informed decision. Very nice.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent and comprehensive guide complete with historical and modern interpretations of the Elder Futhark.

[Amanda]

Working through this book all of 2011 with a class! More to come at the end of the year!

[Colin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a bad introduction to Norse mysticism, if you're into that sort of thing (I used to be)

[Spider Goddess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent workbook for learning and teaching the runes. This works well as a springboard for becoming acquainted with the runes and leading to a deeper understanding of them.

[Kecia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lots here, but not all of it worthwhile.

[Aldis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well researched, and in a great teaching format. I refer to this a lot.