Ansuz

Word & Wisdom

Meaning & Interpretation

Ansuz is Odin’s breath, the rune of the word, of wisdom and inspiration. It announces a message – a piece of counsel, an insight, a clarifying conversation – and reminds us that true power often lies in language. Today, listen more closely to what is said to you, and choose your own words with care.

Upright
Odin’s breath, the word. Message, wisdom, inspiration – listen closely, counsel is reaching you.

Reversed / related
Reversed, Ansuz stands for empty words and misunderstandings – advice you should not trust. Listen more closely and do not believe fine talk too quickly.

Name & Origin

‘Áss’ is the god – above all Odin. Ansuz is the rune of the word, the breath, wisdom and divine inspiration.

In the Rune Poem

The Old Norse poem calls ‘óss’ the forefather and prince of Asgard – Odin himself. In the Old English poem, ‘os’ is the mouth, the source of speech and wisdom.

Historical Use

Because Odin won the runes, Ansuz is regarded as the rune of runes – of knowledge passed on through language.

Good to Know

Language as a divine gift: this idea links the Norse world with many other cultures in which, in the beginning, there is the word.