Welcome to another segment of our study of the runes! Today we take a look at Eihwaz (eeh-wahz).
The keywords for this rune are death, regeneration, rebirth, changes, and magic. While those words may not sound like they have much in common, they truly do. This rune represents the Yew tree, making it symbolic of both death and regeneration. The Yew is a highly toxic plant to humans and livestock. In ancient times, poisons from the tree were used for murder and suicide. However, on the other hand, the yew tree is also considered a tree of life, due to its evergreen nature and extreme longevity. A wild Yew can live for thousands of years and when they do begin to die, they can be regenerated by their own daughter trees that grow inside their decaying trunks.
Eihwaz is an extremely powerful symbol of the cycle of death and life.
Eihwaz does not indicate literal death, but much like the Death card in the Tarot deck, indicates an ending that will lead to a new beginning. If things seem to be at a halt (Wow! That makes me think of the Hangman card we got in yesterday’s tarot reading), be patient. You are being asked to allow an old situation to fall away so that new developments can enter your life.
It can also symbolize leaving behind old ways, allowing old aspects of yourself to die away now that they are no longer serving you. Don’t resist the changes that are underway. Instead, learn to go with the flow and be flexible. You may not be able to see it now, but what you are currently dealing with is paving the way for a new and improved situation.
Another interesting comparison of this rune and the Death card in the Tarot deck is that even though runes precede tarot cards by at least a thousand years, both carry the number 13. The Death card is the thirteenth card in the Major Arcana, and Eihwaz is the thirteenth rune in the Elder Futhark.
My take away from this rune, if it were to show up in a reading would be: Death is only the end of a cycle and NEVER the end of the story!
Other meanings of this rune include an association with magical work, particularly of a protective nature in dealing with transformation. It has been called a symbol of the gateway to the underworld and of deliberate journeys to the non-physical realm in search of knowledge or understanding. This rune can offer protection, overcoming obstacles, spiritual development, strengthening of physical and magical powers.
Again, I want to remind you this is not a reading, simply a study of this rune.
The birthdates associated with this rune are December 28th to January 13th.
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What a fascinating post, Jan! I enjoyed learning about the yew tree. This rune is interesting too, especially the part about magic, transformation, and that it’s a symbol of a gateway to another realm. 👏😀✨
Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment, Vashti. I loved learning about the Yew tree as well. Magic and transformation are two words that always appeal to me, always. I appreciate your support!!
I like that you point out it’s not only death, but rebirth. Same with the death card in a tarot deck. This one covers my hubby’s birthday.
Thanks for your comment, Teri. I would imagine people born under this rune symbol are adept at reinventing themselves.
What a rune again (which is not…)! Again, a rune with a message of so much renewal power. And I like how this can be compared to both the Death and the Hanged Man card in the Tarot. This is exciting.
I have a lot of Yews around my patio. They grow so well. I love them. Maybe they are one reason I feel so renewed when I sat there for a while.
Wow, how cool, Erika! To have this symbolic tree around your patio is definitely a source of renewal. Incredible! I’m so glad you enjoyed this rune. Thanks so much for stopping by to leave a comment! Hugs!
Your explanations make me cherish my bushes even more. That was so insightful. Thank you and lots of hugs back at you, Jan 💖
I knew none of that about the yew tree. My first thought when I saw the picture was that it is a perfect image of a tree. Little did I know!
I didn’t know that about the Yew tree either, Jacqui. So we all learned something. 🙂 Thank you for stopping by!
This is one of my favorite runes despite its association with “death.” I love the concept of cycles, of things needing to end for their to be new beginnings, and the sweeping away of the old to make room for the new. A time of change and opportunity. Great post. 😀
Thank you, Diana. I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. Life is made up of rhythms and cycles and when we can see that, it makes moving through them so much easier. I appreciate you stopping by and leaving a comment!
Happy too. 😀
I like the idea of letting go of what no longer serves us and embracing the unknown.
I agree, Denise. That process is never easy but the reward is great! Thank you for stopping by!
Jan, not only a fascinating post about the Eihwaz but I was interested to learn about the Yew Tree. I like how the opposites are a feature of all the runes and that they are able to be read in so many varied ways. I can relate to ‘Don’t resist the changes that are underway.’ So often we do exactly that and exhaust ourselves not only physically but also mentally and emotionally.
So true, Annika. We often fight against the flow until we are worn out. I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. I also enjoyed learning about the Yew tree. Fascinating stuff! Thank you for stopping by today and leaving a comment! Hugs!
Excellent explanation of the rune, Jan. The idea that death is not the end of the story is a good one. Certainly what I believe.😁
As you so aptly portrayed in “The Eternal Road.” 🙂 Thanks for stopping by!
😁
It may not be a reading, but it fits perfectly with yesterday’s reading. I, too, made the connection and how fitting these words are to provide comfort for yesterday’s reading. I love your take on this rune. Great post, Jan! 🙂
I love it when the Universe is in action! The synchronicities that can occur are just reminders of the power of Source. Thank you for stopping by and I wish you a wonderful day! Hugs!
I love your take-away, Jan: “Death is only the end of a cycle and NEVER the end of the story,” and your great explanation about this rune! Thank you! 😊
Thank you for your sweet comment, Gwen. We often forget that one simple thing. Have a wonderful day! Hugs!
Interesting rune and tree, Jan. Thanks for the introduction!
I agree, Jill. I was not familiar with the Yew tree so I learned something. Thank you for stopping by!
It strikes me as so apt that this rune covers the change from the old year to the new too. Great explanation, Jan. Thanks for sharing 🙂
So true, Harmony. Moving from an old year to the new is a form of regeneration and very fitting. Thank you for your comment! Have a great day!
It makes me think of autumn and the Phoenix, both symbolizing death and rebirth. An interesting rune, Jan. Thanks for sharing!
That is an excellent comparison, Mae. Thank you for stopping by today!