Wunjo, with its associations with joy and fulfillment, reflects these themes, offering a glimpse into the values and beliefs of the ancient Germanic peoples. The Goddess of Love, Freyja, is a central figure in Norse mythology, embodying love, beauty, and fertility. James Doyle Penrose (1862-1932), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons It’s a reminder of the importance of happiness and joy in life, and the role they play in a balanced and fulfilling existence. The rune is also linked to harmony and well-being, reflecting a state of contentment and peace. It represents the culmination of efforts, the reward at the end of a journey, or the realization of a wish. This rune is traditionally associated with joy, pleasure, and fulfillment. Now, let’s delve into the symbolic heart of Wunjo. In Old Norse, for example, it was pronounced as a “v.” Symbolic Meaning of the Wunjo Rune In the Proto-Germanic language, Wunjo represented the sound “w,” as in “wind.” As Germanic languages evolved, so did the pronunciation of this rune. However, the traditional form remains the most recognized and used. Some inscriptions show the rune with more curved branches or with the branches angled to the left. Historically, variations of Wunjo’s design have been found. It is forming a shape reminiscent of a flag on a golf course. It’s composed of a vertical line with a leaf, or triangular flag, angled to the right at the top. Visually, Wunjo is a simple yet elegant rune. Space Force, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Consequently, this gives us a glimpse into the mindset of the ancient Germanic peoples, showing us that they valued joy and sought it in their lives. Rooted in the Proto-Germanic “*wunjō,” it’s associated with joy, pleasure, and even wishes.

Transitioning to its origins, the etymology of “Wunjo” is intriguing. Wunjo, along with its runic siblings, belonged to this widespread alphabet, and we can find it today on ancient artifacts that could be as old as two thousand years. Germanic tribes of people from the Iron Age and into the Viking Age used the Elder Futhark across Europe. The name comes from Old Norse, translating roughly to “joy” or “bliss.” It follows Gebo and precedes Hagalaz from the second aett. Wunjo, the eighth rune in this alphabet is the last rune in the first aett, associated with Freyja and Freyr. Let’s start at the beginning, with the Elder Futhark, the oldest form of the runic alphabets.

Wunjo in the Younger Futhark – The Vanishing Joy.

Elder futhark runes vector