Urban Runes: Tiwaz the Sky God

The Urban Rune I would like to discuss this time is Tiwaz, the Sky God. It is usually symbolized as an arrow which can also sometimes be seen as a spear or literal arrow. I find this rune to be one that doesn't appear very often. In my earlier explorations of the Runes I always looked at this Rune as embodying the essence of strength and courage. Though I suppose it can still be taken in that context, I have since realized a deeper connection with Tiwaz. In the element of the sky it is the domain of intelligence, escoteric knowledge and the like. So, I began to really think about what this magical symbol means in my own life when it shows up.

I borrowed this defenition from sunnyway.com as a great jumping off point to the meanings I subscribe too. "Honor, justice, leadership and authority. Analysis, rationality. Knowing where one's true strengths lie. Willingness to self-sacrifice. Victory and success in any competition or in legal matters.." The knowing where one's true strength lies is the really important attribute for me. Often times Tiwaz will show up when I start doubting myself, my abilities or my truth.  Even the willingness to self sacrifice is an interesting concept for me as well. As a member of the artistic community I know all too well the sacrifices we make for our art and the ability to create and share it with the world. Of course there are numerous examples of artists suffering for their art. But, I don't think that is necessary. What resonates with me is that in order to quinch this passoinate desire to create we sacrifice parts of our lives that non artists don't understand. Many times we are alone in our studios existing in our own little worlds in order to coax something, anything out of our creative consciousness. The hope is that this will lead to some form of success. Tiwaz offers that as a reward for our sacrifices and hard work.

In it's negative or reversed aspect it can make " One's energy and creative flow are blocked. Mental paralysis, over-analysis, over-sacrifice, injustice, imbalance. Strife, war, conflict, failure in competition. Dwindling passion, difficulties in communication, and possibly separation." Yes, most of these attributes in this position are ususally accurate for me except and a big eception and that is war. Thankfully I am bleassed with not having to experience that in my daily life. The reverse of Tiwaz is usually symbolized as an upside down arrow.

So, when you begin to see arrows appear in your life, think of the attributes of Tiwaz and see how that desribes what is happening in your life now. It gives us pause to reflect on this energy flowing around us and maybe how we can direct it to our best benefit.

Hope you have a great week ahead one and all. Thank you as always for taking the time to share my little inspirations with you. Peace.