The primary Nordic symbol for the sun is the Sowilō rune, known as Sól in Old Norse. This ancient symbol represents the sun itself, embodying its life-giving properties and radiant energy.
The Sun Rune: Sowilō / Sól
The sun rune is a powerful symbol found within various runic alphabets used by Germanic peoples, including those in the Nordic regions. Its consistent association with the sun highlights its fundamental importance in their worldview.
Etymology and Meaning
The name of the sun rune varies slightly across different linguistic stages but consistently points to the concept of the sun:
- Proto-Germanic: The earliest reconstructed name for this rune is Sōwilō.
- Old Norse: In Old Norse, the language of the Viking Age, the rune is known as Sól, which directly translates to "Sun."
This direct translation underscores the rune's literal and symbolic connection to the celestial body.
Runic Forms
The appearance of the sun rune differs between the older and younger runic alphabets, yet its core meaning remains the same. The shapes are distinct but recognizable:
| Name (Proto-Germanic) | Old Norse | Meaning | Elder Futhark | Younger Futhark |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| *Sōwilō | Sól | Sun | ᛊ | ᛋ |
- Elder Futhark: The elder form, ᛊ, often resembles a lightning bolt or an 'S' shape. It is one of the oldest known runic alphabets.
- Younger Futhark: The younger form, ᛋ, is a simplified version, more closely resembling a modern 'S' without the diagonal line of its elder counterpart. This alphabet developed later and was widely used during the Viking Age.
Cultural Significance
Beyond its literal representation, the Sowilō/Sól rune symbolized vital concepts in Nordic culture:
- Light and Warmth: Representing the sun's ability to banish darkness and bring warmth.
- Life and Growth: As the sun is essential for crops and life, the rune embodies vitality and regeneration.
- Guidance and Hope: The sun's constant presence in the sky made it a symbol of guidance and a beacon of hope.
- Success and Honor: In a broader sense, it could also be associated with success, victory, and honor, as the sun illuminates and brings clarity.
The Sowilō/Sól rune thus served as a potent symbol of power, positivity, and the life-affirming forces of the cosmos.
