| The twenty-third rune and seventh of the Third Aett of the Elder Futhark is called "Dagaz". It's sound is "D". Dagaz means "day" and its shape represents stable balance between polar opposites, especially light and darkness. It is the rune of the light of day, especially midday and midsummer, the high points of the light in both day and year. These are times of strength and well-being. The Anglo-Saxon rune poem says: "Day, God's message, is precious to people. The light of the Lord gives gladness and hope, to rich and poor, for the benefit of all." Some rune-users call Dagaz the "dawn-rune". Its shape signifies balance between light and dark, enclosure and openness, ascending and descending powers. Dagaz has great protective power and is also a very beneficial rune of light, health, prosperity, and openings. It serves to stop harm from entering, while still allowing in those things that we need. Traditionally, to bring bad luck, this rune was painted or carved on doors, shutters, doorposts, and other uprights in the house. In the spiritual realm, Dagaz gives people access to cosmic consciousness. |