In the realm of Norse mythology, the Armanen runes hold a profound connection to the ever-changing tapestry of the seasons. Each rune embodies a unique facet of the natural world, reflecting the cyclical patterns of growth, transformation, and renewal that govern our existence. As we delve into the stories interwoven with these runes, we discover a deeper understanding of their symbolic significance and the enduring power of Norse mythology.

NOD: Arising – Spring

As the world awakens from its winter slumber, the NOD rune, signifying “arising,” finds its resonance in the story of Rig, the first man. Desiring to bring order to the world, Rig traveled from Asgard to Midgard, the realm of humans. He encountered three couples, each representing a different social class – thralls (servants), farmers, and jarls (nobles). With each couple, he shared his knowledge and wisdom, teaching them the arts and crafts that corresponded to their station in life. This tale mirrors the burgeoning energy of spring, the stirring of dormant potential, and the irrepressible urge to blossom.

TYR: Becoming – Summer

Summer, the season of flourishing abundance, finds its expression in the TYR rune, symbolizing “becoming.” Under the warm embrace of the sun, nature undergoes a remarkable transformation, reaching its peak of vitality and expression. The TYR rune mirrors this transformative power, reminding us of our own capacity for growth, self-realization, and the fulfillment of our inherent potential. This resonance is embodied in the tale of Týr, the Norse god of justice, law, and single combat. In a pivotal moment, Týr willingly sacrificed his right hand to bind the monstrous wolf Fenrir, ensuring the safety of the gods and the cosmos. His act of selflessness represents the ultimate sacrifice for the greater good, echoing the transformative power of summer.

EH: Transforming – Autumn

As the leaves surrender their vibrant hues to the earth, the EH rune, representing “transforming,” encapsulates the essence of autumn. Nature gracefully sheds its summer mantle, embracing the inevitable cycle of change and decay. The EH rune echoes this metamorphosis, urging us to embrace the impermanence of all things, to let go of what no longer serves us, and to prepare for the new beginnings that lie ahead. This transformative power is exemplified in the marriage of Odin, the all-father, and Frigg, the goddess of wisdom, motherhood, and weaving. Their union represents the harmonious balance between masculine and feminine energies, as well as the interconnectedness of creation, knowledge, and destiny. Their marriage is a testament to the transformative power of love and partnership, a theme that resonates with the autumnal season of change and renewal.

THORN: Passing Away – Winter

Winter, the season of dormancy and introspection, finds its expression in the THORN rune, signifying “passing away.” Just as nature retreats beneath a blanket of snow, so too does the THORN rune symbolize the need for reflection, introspection, and the release of what no longer serves us. It is a time of quietude, of drawing inward, and of preparing for the rebirth that spring inevitably brings. This introspective aspect of winter is captured in the tale of Thor, the god of thunder and strength. As a test of his worthiness, Thor underwent three trials: he faced a monstrous cat, wrestled with an old woman, and attempted to lift a cat from the ground. These trials represent the challenges we encounter in life, requiring strength, courage, and the wisdom to discern what truly matters.

Conclusion

The Armanen runes, interwoven with the stories of Norse mythology, provide a profound reminder of our interconnectedness with the natural world. They mirror the cyclical patterns of the seasons, reminding us of the constant interplay between creation, growth, transformation, and renewal. By understanding these deeper connections, we can embrace the ebb and flow of life, with its moments of joy, sorrow, and transformation, and find harmony within ourselves and with the world around us.

© Jurgens Pieterse, 2023, All rights reserved