At first glance one might assume that this rune is rather forbidding, as ice is obviously very cold and may be highly dangerous. That does not tell the whole story, however. Ice may in fact be protective: indeed, we use the expression “put on ice” to indicate that we want to store something away for later use. This rune counsels caution: the best course of action for the querent is not action. This is the moment to stop and metaphorically freeze all plans, as to continue would be fool hardy – like stepping out onto ice.

The Is rune denotes that things have gone on for too long and with too much coldness for there to be much chance of warmth returning. Sometimes this rune may denote the destruction of plans by stealthy and hidden hands: ice is easy to see once it has formed but only rarely does one see it develop, and it is strong enough to break almost anything in its path. therefore the appearance of Is may also be take as a serious warning. In questions that concern personal relationships, the appearance of this rune does not augur well for the future. Once ice has struck into the hear of loved ones there is little chance that matters will work out well.

The advice of this rune remains the same whichever way it falls, as its shape is the same in reverse. In essence, the advice is to put plans on hold and wait until the situation changes. Eventually there will be a thaw and then everything can revert to normal.