| The fifth rune of the Elder Futhark is called "Raidho" or "Raed". It's sound is "R". Literally, it represents the wheel and the motion that the wheel allows. Figuratively, it signifies the "vehicle" that we use to achieve an objective. But just as a wheeled vehicle cannot be used without a road on which to run. Raidho also represents the road or process itself. Raidho is both the way forward and the means to get there. Raidho is the rune of rites and cerimonies, events performed according to prearranged principles and plans. Raidho allows us to channel our energies in effective ways. This rune helps spirit, matter, or information to move or flow from one place to another, and so produce desired results. The connected meanings of Raidho are "a raid" and also "music". Although these may seem very different from each other, they have in common that to performeither of them well requires dedicated practice and planning. Every circumstance, both inside and outside us, must be right. To take full advantage of Raidho, we must be in the right place at the right time, doing the right thing. This needs conscious awareness and foresight. |