Not the traditional start to a modern pagan treatment of the Elder Futhark, but this was part of my first tattoo so I felt it was appropriate to do my first write up on this important (for many modern runeworkers) rune.

ᛉ – Algiz, or Elk, is a rune of protection, defense, spirital/ divine connection. It is part of the Second Aett of the Elder Futhark (in modern divination practice), those runes relating to challenges, natural forces, and transformative trials of life and the soul.

Algiz is as the Elk’s antlers, a symbol of protection and might. It is a sign that the gods are looking out for you, though you should not test this too far, as even divine patience runs thin.

It can also represent awakening and be a sign to trust your instincts.

If pulled in reverse, it may be a warning of vulnerability, or indicate a sense of helplessness.

Use of Algiz in runework calls on the divine to lend its protection. I personally have this rune tattooed twice, once standalone(-ish), and once as part of a bindrune with Raido for safe travels (Algiz bestowing safety and Raido indicating travel, or while traveling).

I cannot ignore with this rune, however, the misappropriation of Algiz by Nazism and its continued use by white supremacist groups. I think it should go without saying that this usage is a gross defilement and corruption of the rune and its use to that end is unacceptable.

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Check out my post on the power of runes here!