Rune 15 of 24 · Hagal's aett
Algiz
“elk (uncertain); protection” · sound: z (later r)
Can be drawn reversed when reversals are on.
Historical evidence
The name is a debated reconstruction, often given as 'elk'. The Old English poem (eolhx) describes elk-sedge, a marsh grass that cuts whoever grasps it. In the Younger Futhark the shape, turned over, became ýr, named for the yew.
The name Algiz is a modern reconstruction of the Proto-Germanic name; the Elder Futhark’s own names are not recorded.
In the rune poems (original texts)
Eolh-secg eard hæfþ oftust on fenne
wexeð on wature, wundaþ grimme,
blode breneð beorna gehwylcne
ðe him ænigne onfeng gedeþ.Ýr er vetrgrønstr viða;
vænt er, er brennr, at sviða.Ýr er bendr bogi
ok brotgjarnt járn
ok fífu fárbauti
arcus ynglingr.Original texts as printed in Bruce Dickins, Runic and Heroic Poems of the Old Teutonic Peoples, Cambridge University Press, 1915. Public domain. The summary above is Scryway’s own; no translation is reproduced.
Modern interpretation
From 20th-century and later divinatory practice, written for Scryway. Not a historical meaning.
Keywords: protection, awareness, sanctuary
Upright
Protection and vigilance: a guardian presence, or the instinct to stay alert. Reach for help, and offer it.
Reversed
Feeling exposed, or ignoring a warning. Defences down at the wrong time.