mandag, august 15, 2005
E
By my sword
and by my magic
I am defended
Names - ELHAZ - elk, ALGIZ - protectionPronunciations - "ahl has" "ahl gaz"
Phonetic Value - "Z"
Symbolism - The Elk
Keywords - Defense
This rune is a symbol used to signify victory through active defense.
Pictographically, this rune is symbolized through a representation of the splayed hand, the horns of the elk, a swan in flight, or a divergance or convergence of paths or forces.
This rune can also be seen as the godhi or gydhja in the attitude of addressing or invoking the gods.
Phonetically, "Algiz" may not be too far from a pronunciation of the present day "elk" but this shouldn't fool you into thinking these words share a common root. Language has changed much over time and a root connection between these words has been entirely obliterated, if it was ever there in the first place.
The Gothic word "alhs" or sanctuary is also associated with this rune. In this case the implication would be seeking the active defense of another outside agent.
If you aren't afraid of reaching pretty far afield to find phonetic relationships, you may be interested to note that The Old English name, "elk-sedge" is a kenning for sword. It represents a two-edged blade, but the reference to "sedge" or tall grass serves as a reminder that danger can often lurk in the tall grass and it is wisest to "look before you leap".
Elhaz is a reference to active defense or defensive actions as differentiated from passive defenses like structural or natural barriers. Elhaz evokes participation in defensive behavior.
Elhaz can be used to strengthen magical power and luck, as well as the personal physical stamina of the life force.
Used on its own it can be a rune of protection and can be used against all hostile forces, however, because this rune is associated with active defense more than the passive kind of defense reflected in Thorn, it is not usually employed on it's own, but rather, in conjunction with other runes or talismans.
Magically this rune can be used to enhance all defensive actions or to undercut the defenses of an enemy. In a similar way it can be used to raise alertness to danger, or lull an enemy into a false sense of security.
Elhaz can be used to repel present danger and hostile forces and can also increase alertness to and awareness of danger not yet present.
This rune can also be used to channel energies appropriately, sharpen your instincts, keep hold of success or maintain a position won or earned.
In divination it can represent any of the following forces.
ELHAZ UPRIGHT:Protection, a shield, shelter, security, defense, warding, guardian, awakening, repellant, valor, bravery
ELHAZ MERKSTAVE: Hidden danger, failure, misuse, warning, weakening, vulnerability, unawareness, surprise attack, false security, cowardice
// posted by Redaktør @ 8:54 AM 
