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The Elder Futhark Runes: Meaning of Perthro

Updated: Jun 17, 2022

Perthro is the fourteenth Elder Futhark rune and the sixth rune in Hagal's Ætt. Whereas the last rune Eihwaz is associated with the yew tree, some theorize that Perthro was associated with a fruit-bearing tree. Typically, branches from fruit-bearing trees were used to construct rune sets for divination!


Hagal's Ætt is associated broadly with forces of destruction and change. To learn more about the ættir and runes, check out our post on The Elder Futhark Ættir and Their Significance.


The Elder Futhark Rune Perthro. Also known as Perdhro, Pertho, Pertra, and Perthu.
Perthro Rune

Keywords: mystery, divination, secrets, gambling, fate, time, cause and effect, evolution, the unknown, revelation, uncertainty, chance


Perthro Upright Meaning


Perthro is perhaps the most mysterious of all the runes of the Elder Futhark. It is related to divination, gambling, and Fortune. Perthro upright is a pleasurable secret, and it may portend the unexpected. (Its shape has led some to think it represents a womb ready to give birth, although this does not seem to be a commonly-supported theory. Most likely, Perthro depicts a device for casting lots.)


Within Perthro lies the paradox of constant change as stability.


Perthro indicates that now is an excellent time to shoot your shot or embark on pursuits you've been desirous of attaining. Trust in divine guidance and attune yourself to intuitive energies for further clarity. It is associated with the Nornir and is similar to the Sanskrit concept of karma.


Perthro Reversed Meaning


Perthro reversed could be something unfavorable coming to light. Maybe it is an unpleasant secret or a realization that you're too attached to something that isn't serving you.


In any case, it is a warning not to concern yourself with outcomes. You're wasting your energy worrying about what other people are doing rather than putting constructive energy back into yourself. Perthro reversed could also indicate that Fortune is not on your side.


Magical Uses of Perthro


Use Perthro magically to keep Fortune on your side. This rune improves your luck, divination abilities, and clarity. It is also helpful for generating and maintaining optimal health and helping magical intentions along the way.


To go even deeper with your study of the runes, check out How to Read Runes by Kira the Rune Witch.





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