Mythology around Runes: Ehwaz

Ehwaz

Mythology:

The most obvious mythological link with Ehwaz is Sleipnir, the steed of Odin, which was said to have eight legs reminiscent of the runic symbolism of eight hooves pounding the ground. However, there is a semi-legendary link to be found in early English History. The first Anglo-Saxons to come to England during the reign of King Vortigern were called Hengist and Horsa. These names mean "stallion" and "horse" respectively. To this day, the symbol of the English country of Kent, the Landing place of Hengist and Horsa, is still a white horse. Thissymbol is seen on a vast scale in southern England as well, where the equine form has been cut into chalk hillsides. It is also interesting to note that England itself may take its name from a horse god named Ing, who was considered to be an aspect of fertility god Frey. It is therefore likely that when Hengist and Horsa landed on the shore of England, a land that was unknown to them, they bore a banner that was emblazoned with the rune Ehwaz.

Ehwaz

"Eoh is joy to princes in the presence of warriors, a steed in the pride of its hooves, when rich men discuss it, it is ever a comfort to the restless."
                                                                   
                                                                  "The Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem"

  The Anglo-Saxons of England knew this rune as Eoh, and its pronunciation is the letter "E".
Ehwaz ( Not to be confused with Eihwaz ) is said to represent a pair of horses at full gallop, their eight hooves pounding the ground. In modern terms, this has an obvious association with vehicles and travel in general. The "vehicle of the soul ", or physical body, is also symbolised by this rune. Since Ehwaz represents a team of horses, relationships of all kinds fall under the auspices of this rune.
Status, too, forms part of its symbolism, because in ancient times to own a fine horse was a mark of exalted rank, while to own a team took one into the realms of the higher aristrocracy. It is also said that apart from horses, all other demesticated animals are symbolised by Ehwaz. In terms of plants, the rune relates to the apple tree and has associations with the oak and the ash. Its associated herb is the humble ragwort.



Upright Meaning:
When Ehwaz appears either singly or as the first rune of a reading, you can be sure that things are picking up in pace and changing for the better. This rune of large concepts, of major projects and new and exciting adventures. It is also said to emphasise the meanings of other runes of the reading and to speed up the events that they foretell.
The most usual interpretation of Ehwaz indicates travel, usualy to a new location that will provide the physical and mental stimulation that you crave. However, it might equally indicate a move of home or the establishment of a partnership with a person who is as strong-willed as you are. The importance of forming a team, of running in harness and not falling out of step, is suggested, too. It also denotes the need to treat your partners with the respect that they deserve, demonstrating your loyalty, consulting them on important issues and ensuring that the bonds between you remain strong, despite the challenges that are in store. The rune may have a connection with higher education, especially if you are involved in subjects that are investigative, such as the sciences. However the Ehwaz rune manifests itself in your life, an increase in your personal status and that of those around you is certain.

Inverted Meaning:

Problems with travelling and vehicles are suggested when this rune is inverted. Your friends and family may not be in tune with your ideas, and this frustrates your ambition with unnecessary delays. There may also be health worries in connection with pets and domestic animals.





Body Part: Arms and legs.
Associated Maladies: Overwork, overtired, working one's self too much like a tired draft horse.
Action: Moving sturdily
Solution: Keep it moving, but slowly and gently