| The second rune of the Elder Futhark is called "Uruz". It's sound is "OO". This rune represents the great European wild ox called the "aurochs, which was admired and feared for its awesome bulk and strength, and its long, sharp, curving horns. The Anglo-Saxon rune poem tells us: "The aurochs is bold, with horns rising high, a fierce horn-fighter who stamps across the moorlands, a stricking beast!" The shape of the rune represents the horns of the "aurochs". Unfortunately, the animal is now extinct. In Britain, it was exterminated in the 1200's, and the last auroch of all was shot in Poland in 1627. Symbolically, Uruz signifies the tameless power of the primal ox, the boundless power of the universe. Above all others, Uruz is the rune of inner strength, stamina, and perseverance. It is also a rune of healing. However, this empowering ability can never be used selfishly, never owned or controlled by a single individual for his or her own benefit. The influence of Uruz can bring personal success, but it will not be at the expense of others. |