Othala represents the ancient clan lands and the deep spiritual connection to ancestral property, embodying the culmination of a successful spiritual journey and hard work. This rune symbolizes home, community, identity, and the physical and spiritual legacy of past and present generations. Othala reflects both responsibility and pride, linking our history with our future, and reminding us of the importance of honoring our heritage and the legacy we will leave behind.

Sometimes, depending on which source you choose to draw from, Othala can be thought of as the last rune. The earliest relic we have with the full Elder Futhark, the Kylver Stone, lists Othala as last. Later relics however list Daguz as last. For my purposes, I prefer having Daguz last, as it feels very similar to the end of the Major Arcana; the World.

Othala Rune Meaning: Upright Position

Othala, symbolizing inheritance, represents your lasting legacy, spiritual heritage, and the alignment of your values with what is truly important. This can be a time of recognizing and embracing the values and material resources that were passed down through generations. Communal prosperity is highlighed here, as is the importance of your cultural and spiritual inheritance. It can be especially rewarding to align your personal values with these deeper roots.

This can be a time to honor your heritage and to build upon the foundation laid by those before you. It reflects a strong connection to your lineage and the values that have shaped your identity. Appreciate and cultivate the legacy you are part of.

What is the significance of your inherited values? How dow they impact what you leave behind? How can you build that sense of continuity between past and future?

Upright Othala Rune Meanings in Different Contexts

Divinatory Meaning: Othala often signifies the security, stability, and the comfort that comes with material wealth, home, and family. A feeling of security is likely to follow, but Othala also emphasizes the need for continued effort to maintain this comfort.

Love Meaning: In relationships, Othala highlights the importance of building a solid foundation based on shared values, family, and the traditions you have learned through your ancestors. Commitment, focusing on the home and creating a secure environment is critical to strengthen your bonds. Nourish your family connections and look towards the past to see how you can continue to strengthen this relationship.

As Advice: This is an important time to honor traditions and recognize the value of your roots, whether they are cultural, familial, or spiritual. This is a time to appreciate the material and emotional security you have and to build upon the foundation laid by those before you. Align your actions with the lessons you have learned from your family, focusing on the well-being of your home, and you can create a lasting and meaningful legacy.

Othala Rune Meaning: Reversed Position

Not all things we inherit can be good for us. Prejudices and family trauma can also be carried over from past generations. You might be confronting these negative patterns now. Challenges related to your legacy or difficulties in aligning tradition with your core values can come to the forefront now.

A need to heal from generational issues is highlighed. There is always the possibility to break free from these patterns and shift them to be more closely aligned with your principles. This is how you build a legacy to leave behind that you can be proud of.

Reversed Othala Rune Meaning in Different Contexts

Divinatory Meaning: Reversed Othala suggests a disconnection or inability to find joy and security in family ties and heritage. You may find conflict or disorder within the home, leading to instability and distress. Sometimes, this rune also warns of financial difficulties, potential loss of property, or a decline in material wealth.

Love Meaning: There is potential turmoil and discord within your family or household. Issues related to shared values or differences in cultural or familial expectations may come to the forefront. There may be challenges in finding common ground, leading to a sense of isolation or estrangement from loved ones.

As Advice: Not all traditions are positive influences; not every one needs to be followed. You have the power to choose or reject the ones you carry on. Be mindful of financial decisions and protect your assets to avoid loss and instability.

Othala Rune Meaning Cheatsheet