Blackthorn: Algiz
Each of the Celtic trees correlates with a Rune. Runes are a twenty-four letter alphabet, originating with Germanic tribes as early as the 2nd century. Runic glyphs were carved or etched into bone, wood, leather, jewelry, tools, weapons, and stone. Norse and Viking runic artifacts dating as far back as the 9th century have been found in several Northern European and Scandinavian countries, Russia, Turkey and North America. Notably, runes found in Canada and the United States pre-date Columbus by several hundred years, so he was definitely not the first visitor.
The Celtic month of Blackthorn, September 4 - October 2, is associated with:
Rune: Algiz
Algiz, just like the Oghams Ngetal and Straif, is protection, and is symbolized by sedge or rushes, and the elk. It is all about controlling your own emotions. During times of great transition, it can be difficult not to ride the ups and downs of the changes, especially if we stay on the surface of reactive emotions rather than embodying the energy of an elk--quiet, observing, taking in the environment and listening to our intuition rather than our upset or discomfort.
This rune often heralds change through new opportunities and challenges, sometimes bringing some unwanted influences to help us actively choose change. Know that you are protected, just as the elk's antlers protect its immediate space. Remember that the elk is the second largest species of the deer family, averaging between 500-700 lbs and up to 5 ft tall. It can take care of its business!
Algiz reminds us that we will experience progress, and knowing that we will experience progress--really grabbing hold of the fact that everything changes and nothing lasts forever--is a form of protection.
Do what lights you up,
Sadie
Please note: Some people start the tree calendar with Birch in January, which follows the solar calendar. However, I learned them in an older tradition, which aligns with the 13-month lunar calendar. It's up to you to discern what feels right for you, of course.
See also:
Virgo 2024
Libra 2024
Reed September 5 – October 2
Blackthorn September 5 – October 2
Blackthorn: Straif
Blackthorn: Tiger’s Eye
Blackthorn: Vulture
Celtic Tree Months
Author of The Recollection of Trees book series. Fifth generation intuitive. Kitchen witch. she/her.