Eihwaz Rune ᛇ
Roots and transformation — the full meaning of the Eihwaz rune in the Elder Futhark: symbolism, gift, shadow and practical application.
The meaning of the Eihwaz rune
Eihwaz (ᛇ) is a rune of the Elder Futhark with the essence: roots and transformation. The rune of the yew, the tree of life and death, transformation
You are stronger than you think. Your roots reach deeper than you can see. Stand firm today — the storm won't fell the old oak.
Symbolism and archetype
The symbol ᛇ carries within it the archetype of one who can unite opposites. Life and death, root and branch — your wisdom grows in both worlds. In Nordic tradition, the Eihwaz rune was carved onto amulets and stones to invoke exactly this quality of life.
Runic period: December 28 – January 13 — those born in these days carry Eihwaz as their birth rune.
The rune's gift and shadow
Gift: You can unite opposites. Life and death, root and branch — your wisdom grows in both worlds.
Shadow: Obsession with death — literal or symbolic. A burden you carry alone.
Lesson: Death is part of life. Learn to speak about it — your secret weighs heavy.
Practical application
- Visit the grave of a loved one — tell them what you need to say
- Write down your 'small deaths' — what died this year, yet gave rise to new life?
- Find a tree nearby — sit beneath it once a week