algiz ᛉ

Pronunciation: AHL-geez

Alternative names: elhaz, eoih, elgr, alhiz

Translation: elk or elk sedge

Sound: “Z” as in “zipper”

Associated Concepts and Interpretations

Awakening

Bifrost bridge

Elk

Elk sedge

Guardian spirit

Higher self

Link with fylgja

Protection/defense/sanctuary

Spiritual guidance/connection

Swan (as algiz)

Sword (as kenning)

Underworld/unconscious

Upcoming opportunity/quest

Valkyries (as crow’s foot or raven’s foot symbolism)

Warding

Associated Rune Poems

(as translated by Bruce Dickins, 1915; public domain)

A number of interpretations are derived from the various runic poems and those associated with this rune (where available) are included below for further consideration.

Norwegian: 
There is no Norwegian rune poem for algiz
--
Icelandic:
There is no Icelandic rune poem for algiz
--
Anglo-Saxon:
ᛉ Eolh-secg eard hæfþ oftust on fenne
   wexeð on wature, wundaþ grimme,
   blode breneð beorna gehwylcne
   ðe him ænigne onfeng gedeþ
Eolh
The Eolh-sedge is mostly to be found in a marsh;
it grows in the water and makes a ghastly wound,
covering with blood every warrior who touches it

last updated: 21 jan 2022

A list of references is available.

Audio associated with this rune is a creation of the author’s and is released to the public domain. Back-linking and attribution are appreciated, but not required, for use.