The Challenge of the Runes
I began work on this article on 28 June 2020. It has taken nearly four months to complete. During that time my views on the matters that served as the original catalyst for this article evolved. Initially I embraced an exclusive approach thereby seeking to eliminate texts that might be contaminated by non-Heathen poets. Perhaps the runes themselves suggested a better alternative. By the time I completed this article, I embraced an inclusive approach whereby not only are the ancient works utilized for their wisdom but inner work too is leveraged for increased clarity while seeking answers to these great mysteries. ********* While most academics embrace a profane explanation of the runes, many in the Heathen community believe that the runes possess a special power and may be used in magical ways. Such magical uses include divination and influencing or making actual change in the subjective and even objective universe. Runes may be called on for victory, for health and healing, or for