Beorc |
|
| This rune is a fertility symbol, drawn to resemble a woman’s breasts.
In ancient times the birch was regarded as the tree of fertility, and
being lightly whipped with birch twigs was supposed to increase vigor
and fertility. This belief is still held in Scandinavia where, after a
sauna, people are encouraged to roll in the snow and then endure a quick
lashing with a bundle of birch twigs. The phallic maypole that was traditionally
danced around as a symbol of new life, the coming of spring and fertility
in general was more often than not made of birch. So when Beorc appears
in a reading it points clearly to inception, whether of a child, a project
or simply an idea. Beorc is generally auspicious. However, because it symbolizes the mother and, by implication, the child, there is an element of “nourishment” associated with it. Thus, even if the rune is essentially beneficial the new project will need the same kind of succor as an infant. Success will not come of its own accord: effort and attention will be required. This may explain the traditional duality ascribed to the birch, the “fruitless tree”, implying that all is not quite as it seems and that success will be achieved only through genuine application. Reversed, Beorc becomes a symbol of sterility, implying difficulties and misunderstandings on the domestic front. Perhaps a desired pregnancy will prove impossible, or a current pregnancy will be terminated. alternatively, it can point to worries over children, especially in terms of health. However, the surrounding runes always give a much clearer picture. A reversed Beorc is not particularly malign of itself and requires more ruthless runes to imply real trouble, while helpful runes definitely alleviate the situation. |