Berkano

Pronunciation
“Bear-kawn-oh”

Phonetic Value
” b ”

Translation
Birch Twig

Meaning
Growth. Fertility. Re-birth. New life. A new broom. Physical beauty or stature

Associated Gods
Nerthus, Holda

Astrological Correspondence
Virgo

Magical Uses
Healing (especially infections), achieving conception, making a fresh start

Berkano symbolizes springtime and new beginnings. It is a birth rune and is especially powerful in women’s matters. It marks the time when the laws of existence are set and life is ready to begin in earnest.

If Teiwaz is the fundamental male mystery, then Berkano certainly belongs to the women, for it represents the path of the mother, the healer and the midwife, bringing new life after death just as the birch puts out the first leaves after winter. It is the rune of the family and the home, and represents the enjoyment of sexual relations, fertility, and birth. Birth in this context can be literal or symbolic, such as the successful start of any new idea or enterprise.

An exciting time for new beginnings, fresh adventures. Activity and energy. Sow seeds, but the harvest is yet to come so don’t expect immediate reward for your effort. Put the past in its place, learn from experience. A good time for spiritual renewal – clear away misconceptions and accept new ideas.

Reverse Meaning
When drawn in reverse, Berkano advises that aspects of character are more likely to interfere with growth, rather than events.