Nauthiz

"Nyd is oppressive to the heart yet often proves a help and is the salvation of children of men who heed it in time"
                                                                        
                                                         "The Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem"


To the Anglo-Saxon, this rune was known as Nyd, while in Scandinavia it was called Naudr, which became Naud in Inceland. All of these words mean "need" It is the Letter "N" in the common alphabet.
This is the rune of necessity, as its very name means "need". As the words of the rune poem say, that which is necessary is often "oppressive to the heart", but it can be a great teacher about the reality of the world and our place within it. Of course, managing life often relies upon little good luck, and it is possible that the custom of crossing one's fingers harkens back to the shape of the rune Nauthiz. This rune also has associations with the so-called "need-fires" or famine, and with rowan and beech trees, too.


Upright Meaning:

This rune is likely to appear when you are assailed by doubt an insecurity. Indeed, it indicates that you should think very carefully before acting. A realistic attitude is vital, but it is also important to remember that realism is not equated with pessimism. Nauthiz is fundamentally the rune of necessity, so some action is required of you, no matter how much anxiety and lack of confidence may hamper your activities. Strength of character and a determination of control these negative emotions will see you through this period. Another aspect of the rune is the importance of recognising your own limitations and acting accordingly. Pushing yourself too hard will solve little at this time.
Irritation with your limitations may make you intoletant of failings of others, too. Although the period forcast by Nauthiz is not likely to be pleasant, good will come out of it. Luck is waiting around the corner, and good fortune is particulary likely to come from older relatives and true friends, who will stick by you through thick and thin.


Inverted Meaning:

When casting the runes, you make a drawing or carve this rune Nauthiz, with a shorter "leg" so when it comes out, when it appears, you will know if it is upright or inverted.
The furstrations and stress of the upright Nauthiz are even more evident when the rune is inverted. The Norn of the future seems more heavily veiled then usual, and you will find it difficult to anticipate forthcoming events. You may lack a clear sense of direction and so may be easily led into taking unwise actions. Beware of get-rich-quick schemes and false friends. On the other hand, the appearance of the inverted Nauthiz may simply be an indication that the answer to your question is at present unknown... even to the runes!


Body Part: Stomach. The place that burns that which you need.
Associated Maladies: Malnutrition. Eating disorders.
Action: Crossed or stopped by a lack of something needful.
Solution: More nutritious diet, making sure to get necessary nutrients.