First Aett – Freyr’s (Fehu’s) Aett
The Elder Futhark is divided into three groups of eight runes, known as ætts. The First Aett, often called Freyr’s Aett or Fehu’s Aett, encompasses the foundational energies of existence: wealth, vitality, conflict, communication, movement, illumination, exchange and harmony. Below is a detailed exploration of each rune’s phonetic value, core meaning, symbolism and practical interpretation.
1. Fehu (ᚠ)
- Phonetic value: F
- Meaning: Wealth, cattle, movable possessions
- Symbolism: Prosperity, abundance, the fruits of labour
- Interpretation:
- Upright: Success in ventures, financial gain, reward for effort
- Reversed/Shadow: Greed, instability in resources, misplaced priorities
2. Uruz (ᚢ)
- Phonetic value: U
- Meaning: Aurochs (wild ox), primal strength
- Symbolism: Physical vitality, raw power, untamed potential
- Interpretation:
- Upright: Health, endurance, breakthrough of personal barriers
- Reversed/Shadow: Recklessness, uncontrolled aggression, burnout
3. Thurisaz (ᚦ)
- Phonetic value: TH (as in “thorn”)
- Meaning: Giant, thorn, force of nature
- Symbolism: Protection, challenge, transformative conflict
- Interpretation:
- Upright: Defence against threats, opportunity through adversity
- Reversed/Shadow: Hostility, stubbornness, unnecessary strife
4. Ansuz (ᚨ)
- Phonetic value: A (as in “father”)
- Meaning: God, ancestral voice, communication
- Symbolism: Divine inspiration, wisdom, the power of speech
- Interpretation:
- Upright: Clear guidance, creativity in expression, revelation
- Reversed/Shadow: Misinformation, blocked communication, ego
5. Raidho (ᚱ)
- Phonetic value: R
- Meaning: Journey, chariot, rhythm
- Symbolism: Life’s path, movement, personal evolution
- Interpretation:
- Upright: Progress, harmonious travel (literal or metaphorical)
- Reversed/Shadow: Delays, detours, feeling stuck
6. Kenaz (ᚲ)
- Phonetic value: K (hard “c”)
- Meaning: Torch, beacon, knowledge
- Symbolism: Illumination, creativity, transformation of ignorance
- Interpretation:
- Upright: Insight, artistic spark, healing light
- Reversed/Shadow: Confusion, creative block, hidden fears
7. Gebo (ᚷ)
- Phonetic value: G
- Meaning: Gift, partnership, exchange
- Symbolism: Reciprocity, balance in relationships, generosity
- Interpretation:
- Upright: Fair exchange, strong alliances, selfless giving
- Reversed/Shadow: Obligation without return, exploitative bonds
8. Wunjo (ᚹ)
- Phonetic value: W
- Meaning: Joy, bliss, pleasure
- Symbolism: Harmony, fulfilment, shared happiness
- Interpretation:
- Upright: Emotional wellbeing, celebration, unity
- Reversed/Shadow: Alienation, superficial pleasure, dependence
Bringing Freyr’s Aett into Practice
Together, these eight runes chart a journey from acquisition (Fehu) through personal empowerment (Uruz), trials (Thurisaz), inspired insight (Ansuz), onward movement (Raidho), enlightenment (Kenaz), balanced exchange (Gebo) and culminating in contentment (Wunjo). Whether used for divination, meditation or personal growth, Freyr’s Aett serves as a map of human experience—guiding you through the cycles of effort, challenge and reward that shape our lives.
