Several years ago, when I discovered my Viking heritage, I began a lifelong study of the Elder Futhark (the technical term for the runes this app is about). I honestly can’t remember whether I purchased this app first, or I bought my first set of runes first. I suspect it was the former because an iPhone app is significantly cheaper than a set of Smokey Quartz runes. During my initiatory stages in this process, this app was like a pocket companion. I always did my work with my real runes, but every explanation was just a tap away on my phone. The reason I’ve never reviewed this app is because I’ve always been more fond of the Elven Runes app by the same developer. But after the significant improvements in the newest update, I feel obliged to write a review.
If you’ve never even heard of runes before, good! Buy this app to appease your curiosity. This isn’t sorcery. It’s a tradition of mythological thought. The runes reveal those aspects of our psyche which are universal to every human being. They describe in symbolic terms, natural law. For instance, the rune Jera describes the cycle of the seasons. But this isn’t a lecture, this is an app store review, so forgive me if I digress.
Version 1 didn’t have a journalling option. Version 2 does. I am very happy.
Version 1 didn’t have any social networking capability. Version 2 does. I am very happy.
Version 1 looked a little jenky. Version 2 looks phenomenal. I am very happy.
I have most of the “runes” apps on the app store. I can tell you very distinctly that for every real esoteric tool on the app store, there are a hundred apps which will tell you your puppy’s horoscope (and most of them don’t even account for doggie years).
If you’re serious about your Viking heritage, this is a tool. If you have no Viking heritage, this is a curiosity. Either way, it’s worth the price.
That concludes my review. But if you’re still reading, I’ll give you a few tips on working with the runes.
First of all, no app in the world will replace the functionality of a real set of runes. You can buy a really nice set, or you can make a set of your own. Get creative. I have a few sets that cost me less than $3 to make.
Second of all, the runes won’t really work well until you make them yours. Do something like put them under your pillow for a few nights, or listen to the Opera Der Ring by Wagner. (Yeah, I know it will take you 14 hours, but if you like music, it won’t seem like so long)
Third of all, work with them consistently. That doesn’t mean every day, and it doesn’t even necessarily mean every week. It just means that you don’t let them gather dust on your book shelf.
Fourth of all, if you’ve mastered all the content in this app, then there are dozens of reputable texts on the subject. Try to find one which gives you the proper method for path working the world tree.
Fifth of all, keep your eye out for Loki. He’s a real trickster.
Sixth of all, I’m serious about Loki man. And if you see a rugged looking homeless man with one eye, please treat him with respect.