Raidho (ᚱ)is the fifth rune in the Norse Futhark runic alphabet and represents the phonetic sound R. It also means Riding, Wagon, or Journey, and is linked with both physical and spiritual journeys.
The Raidho rune is a reminder that the journey is often more important than the destination, and that the passage between two points is rarely a straight line. Embrace the twists, turns, and challenges along the way.
The Raidho rune is linked to the god Odin, who was known to disguise himself and travel the world as a wanderer, and move between the nine worlds of the Norse cosmos on his steed Sleipnir.
It is also linked to the Vegvisir runic stave. Also known as the Norse compass, this magical runic symbol was originally a wayfinding rune for sailors and travelers. Grimoires say that when you use the rune, you will never lose your way, even if you don’t know your destination. It has evolved into a spiritual wayfinding symbol.
Raidho Rune Poems
Our understanding of the Old Norse runes comes from rune poems, which provide explanatory stanzas for each letter. There are Norwegian, Icelandic, and even Anglo-Saxon poems for each rune.
Norwegian:
Riding is said to be the worst thing for horses; Reginn forced the finest sword.
Icelandic:
Riding is of sitting a blessing and a swift journey, and horses toiling.
Anglo-Saxon:
Riding seems easy to every warrior while he is indoors and very courageous to him who traverses the high-riads on the back of a stout horse.
The Anglo-Saxon poem in particular highlights that the journey is often more difficult than we imagine and that it sometimes takes courage to stay the course.
Raidho in Divination
In runic divination practices, the Raidho rune can have several meanings:
- Physical and Spiritual Journeys – it is often a reminder that the journey is more important than the destination and should not be rushed
- Progress – Raidho can appear to reassure that you are making progress towards an important goal even if it does not feel that way
- Travel – the appearance of the rune can be a direct reference to upcoming travel
- Adaptability – Raidho can warn that the best laid plans don’t always turn out to be the best approach and that your destination can switch; don’t be rigid, adapt
The position of the runestone in relation to the reader influences the reading:
- Upright: Stay the path and embrace the journey and lessons learned along the way
- Merkstave (reversed): You are stuck of waylaid and need to re-evaluate to start moving forward again
- Sideways: If you encounter an immovable object, look for a way around
How it should be read also depends on where it falls in relation to other runes.
- Combined with Ansuz – suggests a journey of personal growth that will teach you important lessons and be transformational in some way
- Combined with Fehu – travel for business, financial gain, or profit
- Combined with Berkana – indicates a journey of rebirth that represents a new beginning or a new phase of life
Raidho Associations
Sagittarius – a mutable fire sign associated with travel and a free spirit
Ninth House – governs higher learning, philosophy, and spiritual explorations
Jupiter – the planet of expansion, wisdom, and long-term growth
The Chariot – suggests now is the time to act on plans with full force
Eight of Wands – swift action, quick changes, or the rapid approach of events
29 August-13 September – a period of travel and growth
Raidho in Magical Rituals
Use the Raidho rune in magical rituals for protection and guidance when traveling, or help with decision-making.
- Combine the Raidho rune with a blue candle for candle magic spells when making plans for travel or projects
- Choose the Raidho rune or the Vegvisir symbol as a talisman when traveling
- Meditate on Raidho rune when intention setting
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