Futhark: A Handbook of Rune Magic, New Edition

by Edred Thorsson

Book Overview

Runes are the ancient Norse alphabet used for communication, divination, and magical work. In Futhark , American runologist Edred Thorsson introduces readers to the 24 runes of the Elder Futhark,... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1578637007
• ISBN13: 9781578637003
• Release Date: April 2020
• Publisher: Weiser Books
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 0.66 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.6" x 8.7"

Customer Reviews

THE KEY TO WHAT'S BEHIND THE FIRST DOOR

This book is REQUIRED READING for those who would dare seek true knowledge of the runes. Other books purporting to reveal the mysteries of the runes are best left to the New Agers -- this is the real deal. Be advised that even though this "introductory" text is "for beginners," it is only for those who truely wish to KNOW. There is no mass-market fluff here! Although I am not entirely in agreement with the teachings of Mister Flowers (Thorsson) and the Rune-Guild, this is, by far, the best book I've seen on the subject matter . . . better even than "Thorsson's" later books for more advanced studies. He has written a number of books on the runes, and, even though I have a working knowledge of runelore myself, a few of them were difficult to read. Fortunately, "Futhark" is not one of them. The only real criticism I have is that, personally, I find the concept of "runic postures" rather silly. Visualize them, carve them, stain them with your blood -- but don't go striking a pose! Aside from that, this was an excellent book, and I recommend it highly.

no BS

I love the fact that the author does not fall into the trap that many other authors do regarding the runes, that is, trying to please the "fluff-bunnies" of the pagan community. He presents this ancient practice in the context of the time and culture in which it was practiced, namely the periods immediately before, during, and after the Viking/Germanic expansions in a time of brave warriors, powerful kings, and wise, holy people. The runic system is designed for people who want to take control of their lives and the forces around them to do so. You will not find "peace, love, and vegetarianism" in this work. You will find self confidence, personal power, and conectedness to all things in the multiverse. Is that what you want? Then buy this book.

Excellence!

This is by far the best book on the rune tradition as a magical system I have come across. Despite the rumors of Edred being a mere Satanist I urge any serious studier of rune magic to read this book. In reality Edred is a member of the Temple of Set, seen by some uninformed as a satanic group. Beyond it's dark exterior, if one looks into the Temple, they will find the purpose behind them is to find the light within that darkness, and the personal empowerment this brings. It's not about cursing and killing. It's about personal improvement through research of magic in various different traditions. This holds true of Thorsson's books. What he has written is well researched, and is much more competent than most of the sources out there. This particular work is a little advanced for some. If you are unfamiliar with the subject you may wish to start with a more intorductory work first. Futhark will still be of use to a student of any range, but a beginner may have a little trouble following concepts presented here. All in all I give this my best rating. If you are looking for a book based on Norse religious faith, try his works on Troth. Futhark is centered more on just the runic forces.

Excellent resource text

Although this book may seem too dry, it's one of the best resources for modern runic information available. The history included is a bit spotty, but the individual rune descriptions and explanations are fabulous! Also included is a good chunk of information on bindrunes, which are noticably absent from most books on the Elder Futhark. The illustrations are cohesive and quite nice, too.

Edred Thorsson is *the* definitive Rune Master.

An absolute must have for anyone serious into the study of Runic Magick! Edred may be dry, and scholary, but that is what is needed for serious study of the runes. Any book by Thorsson is highly recommended. If you can tolerate his arrogance, then you too can learn from the master, I have, and this is one of the first books I give to my students who are serious about the runes. Leave Ralph Blum for the airy-fairy, all-is-light, I-don't-care-what-the-facts-are, no-nothings.