Runes, the ancient symbols used by the Germanic peoples, carry deep meanings and powerful messages. Each rune has its own story and represents different aspects of life. For example, Hagalaz is a symbol of disruption, transformation, and natural forces.
In this blog post, I’ll explore the meaning of the Hagalaz rune, how it appears in rune readings, how to use it as a talisman, and some rituals involving Hagalaz to navigate change and harness its transformative power. I’ll also look at which runes pair best with Hagalaz for even greater benefits.
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Hagalaz Rune Meaning
The ninth rune of the Elder Futhark, Hagalaz (ᚺ) resembles ah “H” with the central line on a downward diagonal. Phonetically it corresponds to the “H” sound.
Hagalaz is associated with disruption, transformation, and natural forces. This rune represents the destructive power of nature, such as hailstorms, which can bring sudden change and upheaval. Hagalaz symbolizes the need to break down old structures to make way for new growth.
It encourages us to embrace change and recognize the potential for transformation that lies within disruption. Hagalaz reminds us that through destruction, we can find the seeds of new beginnings.
Hagalaz in Rune Readings
Upright Hagalaz
When Hagalaz appears upright in a rune reading, it signifies disruption and the potential for transformation. This rune suggests that you may be facing sudden changes or upheavals in your life. Hagalaz encourages you to see these disruptions as opportunities for growth and transformation. It signals a time to let go of outdated structures and to embrace the new possibilities that arise from the chaos. This rune urges you to remain resilient and adaptable in the face of change. Patience will serve you better than stubbornness.
Reversed Hagalaz
Hagalaz does not traditionally have a reversed position, as its meaning inherently involves disruption and transformation. However, if Hagalaz appears in a challenging context, it may suggest resistance to change or difficulty in navigating upheaval. This position prompts you to reflect on areas where you may be clinging to old patterns or resisting necessary transformation. It advises you to release your attachment to the past and to trust in the transformative power of change.
Using Hagalaz as a Talisman
Hagalaz can be used as a talisman to navigate change and harness transformative power. It is especially powerful worn as jewelry, as a reminder to have patience during life’s inevitable changes and delays.
You can use any material you like to make your talisman but it’s best to choose something that is suited to the intended purpose. For jewelry, solid precious metals are best. If you’d like to tuck it into a purse or pocket, a stone would do nicely.
You can also incorporate materials that resonate with resilience and adaptability, such as obsidian, black tourmaline, or smoky quartz.
Design the talisman with the Hagalaz rune, either engraved or drawn, and consecrate it through a ritual to charge it with your intention. The talisman serves as a constant reminder of your ability to navigate disruption and harness its transformative energy.
Rituals Involving Hagalaz
Resilience and Adaptability Ritual
For enhancing resilience and adaptability, incorporate Hagalaz into a ritual. This ritual is best when repeated often, reminding you to maintain flexibility and patience.
What you’ll need:
- Drawing or token of the Hagalaz rune
- Dark Blue or Green Candle
Meditate on the Hagalaz rune, focusing on the areas of your life where you seek greater resilience and flexibility. Light a dark blue or green candle to symbolize strength and adaptability.
Lay down on your back near the candle (but not too close!), placing the Hagalaz rune over your chest. Focus on taking deep, even breaths. Visualize a wave of resilient energy flowing from the rune into your body, empowering you to navigate change with grace. Continue on this meditation until you feel relaxed and confident.
Let the candle burn itself out safely.
Tap back into this energy whenever you feel yourself stressing over obstacles or unforeseen changes.
Breaking Old Patterns Ritual
To use Hagalaz’s energy for breaking old patterns and making way for new beginnings, perform a breaking old patterns ritual. This ritual is especially useful for breaking bad habits.
What you’ll need:
- Drawing or token of the Hagalaz rune
- White or Silver Candle
- Offerings that represent the pattern you’d like to break
Light a white or silver candle to represent clarity and new beginnings, and place the Hagalaz rune in front of it. Reflect on the patterns you wish to break and visualize them being shattered by the energy of the rune. If the pattern has a physical representation, you can place it as an offering next to Hagalaz. Breaking it can also be symbolic (for example if you want to quit binge eating skittles, smash a few of them and leave them next to Hagalaz).
Chant: “Hagalaz, shatter the old and clear the way, let new beginnings emerge from the chaos.” Allow the energy of Hagalaz to inspire and motivate you towards releasing old habits and embracing new opportunities.
Imagine how you will feel after you are free from this bad habit, really focusing on why you would like to change.
Immediately after the ritual, while the energy is still fresh, rid yourself of anything that allows you to maintain your bad habit (i.e. throw out all your skittles).
Let the candle burn itself out safely.
Pairing Hagalaz with Other Runes
Each rune carries its own unique meanings, and when combined thoughtfully, these energies can complement and reinforce one another. By using runes in conjunction, you can create more powerful and nuanced outcomes, tapping into a deeper well of wisdom and guidance from the ancient symbols.
Below are some of my favorite rune pairings with Hagalaz:
Hagalaz and Sowilo - Transformation and Success
Pairing Hagalaz with Sowilo can enhance your ability to achieve success through transformation. Sowilo, the rune of success and enlightenment, combines with Hagalaz’s transformative energy to create a powerful force for achieving goals and finding victory through change. This combination fosters both personal transformation and successful outcomes.
Hagalaz and Berkano - Renewal and Growth
Hagalaz and Berkano together can support navigating transformation with a focus on renewal and growth. Berkano, the rune of growth and nurturing, enhances Hagalaz’s energy by promoting new beginnings and personal development. This pairing fosters both the breaking down of old structures and the nurturing of new growth.
Other Runes to Pair with Hagalaz
- Eihwaz: The rune of endurance and protection, Eihwaz enhances Hagalaz’s energy by providing resilience and a strong defensive aura. This combination supports navigating change with strength and protection.
- Algiz: Symbolizing protection and higher self, Algiz complements Hagalaz by enhancing your protective measures and guiding you through transformation. This pairing promotes both safety and spiritual growth.
- Raidho: The rune of journey and movement, Raidho, when paired with Hagalaz, enhances your ability to navigate life’s changes and transformations with purpose and direction. This combination promotes both resilience and forward movement.
Hagalaz is a powerful rune that symbolizes disruption, transformation, and natural forces. It’s a reminder of the importance of embracing change and recognizing the potential for growth within disruption. Hagalaz offers guidance and support in navigating change and harnessing its transformative power.
I am the type of person who enjoys routine, habit, and planning and am naturally resistant to change. Working with Hagalaz reminds me to be more adaptable, so I drew a Hagalaz rune on my day planner. Now I can look at it whenever life throws obstacles my way (which let’s face it, happens every single day).
How do you use Hagalaz? Share your ideas in the comments.
If you enjoyed learning about Hagalaz, check out the blog for more rune-related content. Stay tuned for upcoming posts exploring other runes and their uses.