Dagaz, Dæg: Portals...
Dagaz, -, Dæg
ᛞ
Daybreak we succeed.
Adapt and overcome those
That wish to fault you.
Pronunciation: Dagaz: DAH-gaz, Dæg: Day-g
Literal Translation: Daybreak
Sound: D
Magical Correspondences: Winning, success, daylight, change, joy, forward progress, a new beginning
Divination Meaning Upright: Dagaz and Dæg symbolize daylight, clarity, transformation, and metamorphosis. New beginnings, health, prosperity, and balance are all contained in these Runes: quite literally, all the good things. They are the Runes of light that stand out over darkness, the dichotomy of good over evil, of hope and relief. If these Runes are cast or pulled, it means that there is a change taking place, and the querent is moving towards a positive transformation. This is the second set of the automatic “Yes” Runes.
They are joyful Runes, full of life and hope, which teach that to achieve one’s goals it is not necessary to strain, tire, or undergo rigid ascetic practices such as fasting and deprivation. Dagaz and Dæg teach us to live with serenity, love, and tranquility. If you have a problem, and there is a solution, there is no need to go mad; if there is no solution, it’s the same. If you are sick, you accept that you can and will be healed.
A simple lifestyle contributes to a life of well-being. Learning not to spend money impulsively and foolishly is important; with a conscience, we can follow our ideals. This is a lesson carried over from Fehu, Fé, and Feoh. There isn’t a reversed Dagaz so each time you see it, it’s in its upright position with this very same message for you.
There is no “standard” reverse interpretation, but as you progress in your path you may find that it shows you a reversal of imagery or negative language. Allow the context of the reading and the revelations of the runes to lead the way.
Delving into the Runes: Many books and Rune Smiths place Dagaz at the end of the Elder Futhark system due to its connotation of a new day. This is not something I've ever felt drawn to. I see both of these Runes as a closed portal, and when twisted open to reveal its rectangle (or square, no judgment on drawing here), the open portal is revealed. Only when we close the portal can we go back home, to our version of Othala. Dagaz and Dæg both mean the day, dawn, metamorphosis, and advancement. The message that these Runes send is very important: only if you know how to be honest with yourself in dealing with your actions, will you be able to change your mind when necessary, or defend your beliefs and carry them forward with every effort until you achieve their purpose. Truth and light must be the guide of one’s life.
Dagaz and Dæg are very positive Runes, associated with the broad symbolic value of light (spirituality, wisdom, and energy). These Runes remind us that life is a journey of continuous learning that leads from the darkness of infantile instincts to the wise harmony of maturity. Seen in this way, life takes the form of an exciting challenge in which, if you commit yourself fully, you can overcome difficulties and fears and solve the many doubts that cause anguish, until you live in peace with your spirit, without the influences of the judgments of strangers.
The appearance of Dagaz or Dæg reminds us of this. We are growing, and we are tormented by restlessness and insecurities. These Runes suggest, however, that we continue without hesitation because we are on the right path. We must not fear anything, and must accept what life offers as a gift. However, we must understand that these “gifts” (friends, family, relationships, sometimes even an illness) are occasions from which one can learn to be better.
Dagr, the Norse god of the day, has the task of riding his own steed and illuminating the Earth every day. Dagaz and Dæg are symbols of just that, illumination and liberation from suffering. These Runes herald a new beginning, a new era globally; it is the day after the night, after the darkness. After the pain and the loss, it is rebirth and hope, it is the joy of life.