Monday, February 24, 2025

A Complete Guide to Isa, the Ice Rune

A Complete Guide to Isa, the Ice Rune

Today, we continue our runic study journey by looking at Isa (EE-sah), the Ice rune. It is sometimes viewed as the rune of death as the ultimate stillness or pause in life is death. It's a traditional symbol of winter but also represents strength and perseverance in the face of adversity.

As seen in my previous runic guides, today's post will include a deep dive into the runic poems, Isa's cultural significance, its correspondences, how to work with it, its meaning in a spread, and its relationships with runes. Also included is a free printable for your Book of Shadows or Grimoire!

Isa's Portrayal in the Rune Poems

Isa ᛁ is the third rune in the second ætt, which represents stillness and cycles. It is coupled with Jera, the Harvest or Year rune that represents cycles of time and reward. Isa, on the other hand, captures the stillness before rebirth. Like Jera, Isa appears in all three runic poems, suggesting similar cultural meanings across the continent.

Icelandic Rune Poem                                  Translation:
Íss er árbörkr                                                 Ice is bark of rivers
ok unnar þak                                                 and roof of the wave
ok feigra manna fár.                                     and destruction of the doomed.
glacies jöfurr.                                              


Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem                            Translation:
Is byþ ofereald, ungemetum slidor,               Ice is very cold and immeasurably slippery;
glisnaþ glæshluttur gimmum gelicust,          it glistens as clear as glass and most like to gems;
flor forste geworuht, fæger ansyne.              it is a floor wrought by the frost, fair to look upon.


Norwegian Rune Poem                               Translation:
Ís kǫllum brú bræiða;                                   Ice is called the broad bridge;
blindan þarf at læiða.                                  the blind man must be led.

From each of these three poems, a pattern emerges. First and foremost, Isa ᛁ is referred to as "Ice." This is where Isa gets its modern English name "Ice" and why it's associated with stillness, stasis, and inactivity. Secondly, the dangers of ice are mentioned in all three poems, particularly how dangerous crossing bridges of ice can be. This points to the darker side of Isa, suggesting death and destruction if not taken seriously. Isa is a reminder that ice is a barrier, but an untrustworthy one at that. We must slow down, pause, and wait until we act. Moving too soon or too quickly will most likely end poorly, but this forced stasis is not all bad. Resting is required for rebirth, and in that rest, beautiful things can still happen; "like to gems."

The winter months were particularly difficult for Nordic peoples as they made it impossible to grow food for several months each year. People relied on their communities to ensure they made it safely through these harsh months, as referenced in the Norwegian Rune Poem: "the blind must be led." This is a reference not just to aiding the blind, but to helping all those in need during the winter months. 

We see further reference to the Isa or ice in Havamal 81 which says "Give praise to the day at evening, to a woman on her pyre, To a weapon which is tried, to a maid at wed lock, To ice when it is crossed, to ale that is drunk." This particular passage reminds us to be cautious of acting without thinking and planning first. You shouldn't cross a bridge of ice without first testing it just as you shouldn't drink ale from a stranger or use a weapon you haven't tried first. However, ice is not all doom and gloom as seen two passages later.

Havamal 83 tells says "By the fire drink ale, over ice go on skates..." This tells us that while ice and winter are harsh, there is joy to be found. The only time you can ice skate is during the winter, reminding us to enjoy the stillness.

Being in the second ætt, Isa is associated with Heimdal, the guardian of the Bifrost. All runes within the second ætt are symbolized by resilience, strength, survival, and the cyclical nature of life, and Isa is no exception.

Isa's Cultural Significance

Nature played a pivotal role in Norse society, especially the changing seasons and the wildlife available. This connection is seen in the language and symbolism of the Elder Futhark. The word Isa has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word īsaz meaning "ice," referencing the harsh winters the Norse people were accustomed to. Some suggest Isa's simplistic design (ᛁ) is reminiscent of an icicle, further signifying ice, winter, stillness, delay, and stasis. Others have suggested it could represent a pillar of strength and the strength needed to survive the dark winters.

Some have suggested Isa, like Algiz, may have been carved into weapons or amulets, but I could find no verifiable sources to corroborate this suggestion. Most Nordic weapons have severely deteriorated with time, leaving any inscriptions illegible. Despite the lack of evidence on weapons, Isa is found on tons of waystones and grave markers.

Restored runic waystone

The south side of inscription Ög 224
The south side of inscription Ög 224

The above gravemarker depicts ships on the south side and a serpent on the north side and says, "This stone raised in memory of Halfdan, their father; and Ástríðr in memory of her good husbandman." Like all runes, Isa was used to depict sounds and words to communicate with others in the same way our modern alphabets are used.

Isa was also used to create bind runes, most famously in the Vegvísir (Wayfinder) and Ægishjálmur (Helm of Awe). Sometimes referred to as the "Viking Compass" or "Norse Compass", the Vegvísir originated in Iceland but was probably not used by ancient Norse people as the earliest record of it is from the 19th century.

Vegvisir


Some suggest the Vegvísir is a Christian magic symbol as the three Icelandic books it appears in state: "To avoid getting lost: keep this sign under your left arm, its name is Vegvísir and it will serve you if you believe in it – if you believe in God in the name of Jesus – the meaning of this sign is hidden in these words, so you may not perish. May God give me luck and blessing in the name of Jesus.” However, it's important to note that the Christianization of the Norse people resulted in a number of kings commissioning runestones that dedicated their lands to Christ. It is possible the three Icelandic books that feature the Vegvísir connected an older pagan symbol of unknown age and origin with 19th-century Icelandic Christianity or that it is a blend of two faiths, which was fairly common during the post-Viking age in Iceland. Furthermore, we know a number of books were burned during "witch hunts" including one in 1664. A schoolmaster confiscated a book from one of his students that supposedly contained 80 spells and 237 figures including "#41: To get no storms at sea, accompanied by a figure." Could this figure have been Vegvísir? We will never know because it is not specifically mentioned by name.

No matter its origin, the Vegvísir, which means "That which shows the way" was a magical stave used for protection against getting lost, particularly at sea. The incorporation of Isa runes may suggest finding your way through frozen or treacherous waters.

Old magic scroll with Ægisjálmur
Old magic scroll with Ægisjálmur

While the Vegvísir is not mentioned by name in the 1664 account, the Ægishjálmur, or Helm of Awe, is. It also appears in the 1670 Galdrakver manuscript, suggesting it was likely used for far longer than Vegvísir. Furthermore, Ægishjálmur is mentioned in the Eddic poems and Volsung Saga, but these mentions refer to a physical helmet and not the symbol. However, the symbol by the same name is believed to have the same powers as the physical helm with eight arms emitting from the center. It features Algiz runes that are intersected by a number of Isa runes which combined likely means a hardening or victory or protection or the ability to overcome adversity.

Like all runes, Isa held cultural and likely spiritual significance, much of which has been lost over time, but remains a symbol of reflection, solidification, control, stillness, and endurance.

Isa's Correspondences

It should be noted that general correspondences are not mentioned in any Nordic text. Instead, these are a best guess based on experiences from both myself and others. In fact, most of these are of modern invention, pulling inspiration from Wicca. As with all correspondence lists, you can add and subtract based on your experiences.
  • Upright Meaning: stasis, stillness, introspection, challenges, self-preservation, delay, focus, self-control, roadblocks, forced pause before rebirth, lack of change, stagnation, ego
  • Reversed Meaning: None
  • Letter: I
  • Element: Water
  • Zodiac: Sagittarius
  • Planet: Moon
  • Animal: reindeer, polar bear, penguin, moose, arctic fox
  • Colors: white, light blue, black
  • Deities: Freya, Skadi, Verdandi
  • Plants: alder, henbane, lavender
  • Crystals: chrysoberyl, milky quartz, clear quartz, moonstone, opal

How to Work with the Isa Rune

Incorporating runes into your magical practice can be incredibly rewarding and bring new energies to spells and rituals. But how exactly can you use Isa in your workings?
  1. Use in spells to bind or bring stillness when things are getting out of hand.
  2. Draw the Isa rune on your forehead in a calming anointing oil or visualize it to still your mind.
  3. To stop gossip, write the gossip onto a piece of paper and draw the Isa rune over the top of it before placing it in water and freezing it.
  4. Use in healing spells to help halt the spread of disease through the body.
  5. Wear it as an amulet if you want a less emotional outlook on life or are prone to "overreacting."
  6. To cool heated tempers, draw the rune in food or drinks and share it with whoever you are fighting with.
  7. Draw the Isa rune into a piece of ice and place it on your tongue to still your words.
  8. Draw the rune on a candle before performing shadow work to enhance reflection and concentration while keeping impulsive reactions at bay.
  9. Use in love spells to cool things down or stop a relationship from continuing.
  10. Visualize the Isa rune radiating around you and your home to create a barrier to slow things down when you feel overwhelmed or like time is flying by too quickly.

Isa's Meaning in Rune Spread

What does it mean if Isa appears in a rune spread? Isa holds various meanings depending on its position and relation to other runes in the spread. Like Jera, Isa has no reversed meaning. 

Below are some examples of how to interpret Isa when it's next to or near other runes:
  • In proximity to Thurisaz suggests someone at work is trying to sabotage you.
  • Next to a reverse Laguz can indicate infidelity in a relationship.
  • Near Ehwaz means that there is nothing you can do to change the current course of events. Keep an eye on what you might be missing so you can see things clearly.
  • Near Ansuz, the stasis or barrier you are currently facing will soon thaw.
  • In proximity to Fehu suggests a pause or delay in a new venture, potential gain, or fulfillment of your ambitions.
  • Next to a reverse Uruz or Wunjo indicates a period of falling out of love in a relationship and a growing distance between lovers.
  • Near Raidho suggests a potential need to pause vacation or traveling plans or implies the need for more careful consideration and reflection before attempting to move forward with any plans.

Isa's Relationships with Other Runes

Isa generally opposes other runes in the Elder Futhark, particularly those with a positive meaning. When found with Wunjo, Ehwaz, or a reversed Uruz, it often points to a relationship cooling and potentially ending. You may experience coldness from your partner or a sense that the relationship is not moving to the next step. There is a disconnect or barrier preventing movement forward. When found with abundance runes such as Fehu or Jera, it can symbolize a freeze on wealth, abundance, or fertility or a potential barrier blocking your future success.

However, opposing the other runes does not suggest everything is all bad. Instead, Isa reminds us to pause and reflect. While we may or may not be able to do anything about the current path, we can still learn from it. Sometimes stillness is what is needed for things to correct themselves, and instead of pushing forward into further disaster, we should wait patiently for things to work themselves out. You have no idea what the Universe has planned for you, and often times you just need to take a step back and wait patiently for things to unfold.

Isa also reminds us to rest, even when we feel like we should continue pushing forward. Just because it opposes Uruz, the rune of health, strength, and vitality, doesn't necessarily mean sickness is on the horizon. Instead, it could mean that you need to rest and relax in order to maintain your health and well-being. Isa is not an inherently negative rune, despite how things may appear on the surface.

***

Isa invites us to remember that caution, patience, rest, and reflection are necessary for growth and development. It's a reminder that good things come to those who wait. Below you will find a printable, cheat-sheet that includes a summary of all important information that you can incorporate into your Book of Shadows or Grimoire.


Click the image below to download your free cheat sheet for your Book of Shadows or Grimoire.
Free Printable Guide to Isa, the Ice Rune



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Thursday, February 20, 2025

Magical Properties of Jade

Magical Properties of Jade


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Monday, February 17, 2025

Book Review: Mexican Magic by Laura Davila

Book Review: Mexican Magic by Laura Davila
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Hello, lovely witches. I apologize for being gone so long, but grieving has no time limits. During the time I was gone, I filled my time with reading, a whole lot of reading. Among the books I have read recently, many of them have been occult books, including Mexican Magic: Brujeria, Spells, and Rituals for All Occasions by Laura Davila.

Davila is a fifth-generation Mexican witch, describing herself as a bruja de rancho-- a "ranch witch," which she describes as having a knowledge of botanicals and the natural world, which she incorporates into her book Mexican Magic. Unlike other books on the topic, Mexican Magic is not so much a how-to-guide, but instead a list of spells and rituals for different occasions. Chapter One briefly introduces Mexican magic, discussing the guiding principles, virtues, and cultural significance. I thoroughly enjoy reading about other cultures and practices. Reading widely promotes empathy and understanding, and puts a lot of Mexican culture into perspective, making me a better teacher, friend, and community member.

The introductory chapter is followed by chapters full of spells and rituals for everything from kitchen magic to curing baby hiccups. These spells incorporate saints, angels, and icons infused with botanicals and other natural ingredients. I loved reading about the different animas, their history and folklore, and how to invoke them for different purposes. My favorite chapter, however, was on magical Mexican ingredients, which includes how to use tortillas to enact revenge or warm a cooling relationship. In the kitchen magic chapter, there are spells for using aguas frescas for financial prosperity or to encourage someone to fall in love with you. There are recipes and spells for connecting to your ancestors with coffee or using chewing gum to stop gossip. I learned so much from this book and walked away inspired to work with new ingredients in my own practice, with respect of course. 

I do not have any Mexican heritage, so incorporating Mexican magic into my practice is not something I feel comfortable doing (it's right in line with cultural appropriation), but the techniques are universal. For example, while I won't incorporate the chewing gum spell as it's written in Davila's work, I can figure out a way to use chewing gum in the future to stop gossip, seal someone's lips, or otherwise stop them from talking about me. This is another reason I love reading about the practices of other cultures. They often approach the world from an entirely different view than I do, allowing me to better see and understand how I can work with other elements in my life, ones I may have never thought to use. It opens the doors of my creativity and often inspires me in times when I lack inspiration or the desire to create. For what is witchcraft if not creativity?

My only complaint about Mexican Magic is that it was too short! I wanted so much more history and folklore than what Davila was able to offer in this short book. Despite this, I highly recommend picking up Mexican Magic: Brujeria, Spells, and Rituals for All Occasions by Laura Davila, whether you are Mexican or not. It is a great way to begin this tumultuous year by increasing your empathy toward those different from you, inspiring your own practice, and expanding your understanding of the world around you. I hope it sparks your creativity like it sparked mine.



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Thursday, December 26, 2024

Magical Properties of Spirit Quartz

Magical Properties of Spirit Quartz


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Monday, December 2, 2024

Transitioning from Autumn to Winter: Herbal Remedies for the Season of Pale Misfeature

Transitioning from Autumn to Winter: Herbal Remedies for the Season of Pale Misfeature

Keats described each season in his poetic works, referring to winter as a time of "pale misfeature," which refers to winter as a time of death or old age. It is often used in poetry as a metaphor to describe the deterioration that comes at the end of life, which is exactly what winter is. As the sun begins to fade in the sky and darkness strengthens its hold, the temperatures cool, the plants die or go dormant, and many animals hunker down, hiding from sight. To the untrained eye, it appears we are surrounded by death, but hiding under the mask is a sea of life resting and waiting to be reborn in spring. Winter is a time of rest and rejuvenation, a time to care for ourselves and our families to prepare for the coming spring. Self-care is of the utmost importance. The idea that we should continue to hustle and bustle is modern capitalism convincing us we are all lazy if we take a break. Winter reminds us to slow down and rest because there can be no spring without rest. This makes it a great time to work with plant allies to heal and rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit for the changes ahead as well as get in touch with the magic of the season.

In today's post, I offer 3 herbal recipes to aid your transition from autumn to winter. These recipes can be used to create a variety of remedies including salves, oxymels, steams, baths, tisanes (teas), or tinctures. It's completely up to you how to use these recipes, but I encourage you to consult with the spirits of the plants, your intuition, and even your ancestors or spiritual guides to determine which preparation method is best for you. While taking it as a tisane may be best for me, you may need to use it as a steam.


For Achy Bones and a Weary Soul

The older I get, the more tired I feel come winter. The cold brings on new aches and pains, flaring old injuries. It also means the end of the semester at work, and therefore state-mandated testing. It's always a spring to the finish line, and it leaves me a little worse for wear each year. This recipe combines peppermint (Mentha piperita), turmeric (Curcuma longa), cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), and black pepper (Piper nigrum) to create a remedy to soothe those achy bones and uplift your spirits, just in time for the holiday season! 

This remedy should be taken internally only. Do not attempt to turn it into a salve or other topical treatment.

2 parts peppermint
1/4 part turmeric
1/4 part cinnamon
1/8 part black pepper

optional: if taken as a tea, add honey for an extra boost; as a tincture, add 1/4 part white willow bark


For Warming the Chill

Sometimes, no matter what we do, we can't seem to get warm, I am not just talking physically. Sometimes our minds are slow and sluggish, making it difficult to complete much-needed tasks. Other times our bodies feel worn and tired, leaving us feeling chilly, even though the house is warm. Maybe you or a loved one have been standoffish or otherwise less than merry recently. This remedy is for all the chill you may feel, physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually. It's sure to raise your spirits and keep that coming winter chill at bay. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) are both very well known for their warming properties, helping to aid in digestion and promote circulation. Orange (Citrus sinensis) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) are both powerful mood elevators. When combined with a hint of black pepper (Piper nigrum) this remedy is sure to leave you feeling merry and bright!

This remedy should be taken internally only. Do not attempt to turn it into a salve or other topical treatment.

1 part ginger
1/2 part cinnamon
1/4 part black pepper


For Letting Go of the Past

As the seasons shift, it can be difficult to let go. Many of us continue to be stuck in previous seasons, dreaming of warmer weather, what our life used to be like, and even how much we wish the holidays were like they used to be; family and friends gathered around the table, just happy to see each other; sales that were actually sales on Black Friday; holiday decorations that weren't a bunch of cheap inflatables...I'm not talking about me at all here, am I? Haha! Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) helps with feelings of disconnection and overthinking, helping clear the way for new possibilities. Rose (Rosa spp.) opens the heart and staves off grief and depression allowing new opportunities of love and appreciation to take root, while peppermint (Mentha piperita) uplifts the spirit, and passion flower (Passiflora incarnata) helps us come to terms with our new reality. 

2 parts peppermint
1 part rose
1/2 part skullcap
1/4 part passion flower


***


As the wheel turns toward winter, these recipes can help ensure you are happy and healthy for the coming months. While I certainly love autumn, there is something special about winter. The pristine snowy landscape, the slower pace, and the chill remind me to take stock of what I have, slow down, and rest. I know we like to make lofty resolutions at the beginning of each year but remember, winter is not the time to start new things. Instead, it should be spent resting and reflecting so we can hit the ground running when Spring decides to show her lovely face once more. It's okay to rest. You aren't lazy or unproductive because you are resting. Take time for yourself this holiday season and tell capitalism it can fuck right on off!



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