Heimdall's Aett · Rune 15

Algiz

Q: What does the rune Algiz mean?

Algiz (ᛉ) means "Elk, Protection". Algiz is the rune of protection, the elk-sedge (a sharp marsh grass) and the splayed hand raised in warding. Its shape evokes the antlers of the elk, the branches of the World Tree reaching upward, and the Valkyrie with arms outstretched. In Heathen practice, Algiz is the most powerful protective rune, used to ward sacred spaces and invoke divine guardianship. It represents the connection between Midgard and Asgard, the reaching upward toward the gods, and the instinctive defense response that arises when danger is sensed. Algiz calls for vigilance and correct action as the true shield.

Q: What are the keywords of Algiz?

protection, defense, elk, sanctuary, guardian, connection to the divine, warding

“Elk, Protection” · sound: Z

Keywords
protection · defense · elk · sanctuary · guardian · connection to the divine · warding

ᛉ

What Algiz means

Algiz is the rune of protection, the elk-sedge (a sharp marsh grass) and the splayed hand raised in warding. Its shape evokes the antlers of the elk, the branches of the World Tree reaching upward, and the Valkyrie with arms outstretched. In Heathen practice, Algiz is the most powerful protective rune, used to ward sacred spaces and invoke divine guardianship. It represents the connection between Midgard and Asgard, the reaching upward toward the gods, and the instinctive defense response that arises when danger is sensed. Algiz calls for vigilance and correct action as the true shield.

Algiz in the historical rune poems

Three medieval poems preserve the meanings of the runes — the oldest testimony we have.

The Elk-sedge usually lives in the fen, growing in the water. It wounds grievously, staining with blood every warrior who makes a grab at it.
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem

Correspondences

Deities

Heimdall · Valkyries

Element

air

Color

gold