Kenaz

Pronunciation
“Kane-Awze”

Phonetic Value
” c as in cat ”

Translation
A fire brand or torch

Meaning
Heat, light, enlightenment. Burning. An opening. An ulcer or injury, mental anguish

Associated Gods
Heimdall, Freyja, Frey

Astrological Correspondence
Venus

Magical Uses
For creative inspiration, aid in study, fertility, dispelling anxiety and fear

Kenaz is the rune of knowledge, teaching and learning. It sheds light on the path and dispels the dark shadows of ignorance. Today, light, inspiration and knowledge are often associated, as in ‘gaining enlightenment’ and ‘shedding light on the problem’, even in the image of a light bulb going on over someone’s head when they get an idea. To bring light is to make the invisible visible.

But there is a downside to Kauno in its sense of ulcer or wound. It can be a warning to beware sources of heat or light, or of physical danger. Take care against accidents, treat any illness or infirmity, and resolve your mental dilemmas.

You are coming into a new understanding of life and its meaning. New insights await, but don’t be complacent. Use this new understanding or it will be worthless. Look for ways to use your insights for the good of yourself and others. Enlightenment can be replenished. The more you use, the more knowledge you gain. Enlightenment itself is not the goal, it is just the starting point of a great adventure that will show you great wisdom and understanding if you proceed with truth and honesty.

Reverse Meaning
A relinquishing of the old,of existing from day to day – empty – but not for long. As you let go of old habits, relationships etc., new opportunities will flow toward you to fill the emptiness. If you fail to recognise and relinquish the old, you will suffer fromloss of opportunity.