Eiwaz

Runes of the elder Futhark


Eiwaz

GMC     Eihwaz or iwaz     yew tree
GO         Eihwas                    yew tree
OE         Eoh or eow            yew tree or mountain ash
ON         ihwar                        yew (in runic inscription only)

Phonetic value is uncertain, „e/i“

Eihwas represents the spinning World Tree, Yggdrasil. It is the axis about which all else revolves and spins out of. It contains the mystery of life and death. It is a life giving force which has its roots in the Underworld and death. The yew is a powerful stave of protection and banishing, not only because of its association with the forces of life and death, but because of its association with the bow made of yew wood.
Magically it can be a rune of wisdom when invoked in accessing the mysteries of Yggdrasil. It provides protection, and can help increase personal power and defense. It suggests the passage and communication between different worlds and layers of reality.