For nearly two years, I’ve been doing a traditional Norse rune reading online every morning. The Crossroad Runes are a process taught to me by my grandmother and one I practice as a daily focus on my path ahead.
This time spent has renewed my connection with my own path and brought me in touch with (literally( thousands of people around the globe. If you’re new to Arca Noctis or the runes, following is a brief guide on the practice. As always, I invite any questions and encourage you to find a daily devotion that is meaningful and impactful for you.
The Crossroad Runes
A special way of drawing and interpreting the Older Futhark runic alphabet, the Crossroad Runes have been passed down through my family for generations. Unlike traditional readings, Crossroad Runes are always considered in pairs. In this unique method, two runes are drawn, each one at a time, and read always right-side up — never inverted. How does each ancient symbol influence and complement the other? How is each interpreted through the lens on the second?
The Fundamentals
At their roots, Crossroad Runes share much of the same history and lore as other rune casting practices. Each of the 25 Elder Futhark runes bears both a symbol (or lack thereof) and a particular significance. By drawing and placing runes in a specific order, you may gift yourself with insight into a problem or decision you face.
When interpreting Crossroad Runes, there are a few important distinctions to remember:
- You only need draw two runes at a time. Where those rune intersect — and how they influence one another — is the source of the guidance provided.
- Runes are only read in one direction. Some practitioners prefer to read certain runes, like the rune Tiwaz (or the sky god Tyr), depending on the orientation of the draw. With Crossroad Runes, each rune has a single meaning and a single significance.
- There is no right or wrong way to read the runes. The draw only provides a new perspective and a fresh outlook. The deeper meaning relies solely on your personal interpretation of the runes.
- Crossroad Runes do not foretell the future, only offer new sources of light. Imagine you are at the dark crossroads of an important decision. The runes will not point the way, but each will provide a little point of light to better illuminate the choice you will ultimately make.
At their roots, Crossroad Runes share much of the same history and lore as other rune casting practices. Each of the 25 Elder Futhark runes bears both a symbol (or lack thereof) and a particular significance. By drawing and placing runes in a specific order, you may gift yourself with insight into a problem or decision you face.
When interpreting Crossroad Runes, there are a few important distinctions to remember:
- You only need draw two runes at a time. Where those rune intersect — and how they influence one another — is the source of the guidance provided.
- Runes are only read in one direction. Some practitioners prefer to read certain runes, like the rune Tiwaz (or the sky god Tyr), depending on the orientation of the draw. With Crossroad Runes, each rune has a single meaning and a single significance.
- There is no right or wrong way to read the runes. The draw only provides a new perspective and a fresh outlook. The deeper meaning relies solely on your personal interpretation of the runes.
- Crossroad Runes do not foretell the future, only offer new sources of light. Imagine you are at the dark crossroads of an important decision. The runes will not point the way, but each will provide a little point of light to better illuminate the choice you will ultimately make.
