Reversed Runes (Merkstave): What They Mean
When a rune is drawn upside down, it's called merkstave — and it shifts the meaning toward the blocked, challenged or shadow side of the symbol.
What merkstave means
A reversed rune usually points to its energy being blocked, delayed or turned inward — not the opposite, but a harder or hidden expression of the same theme.
Runes that can't reverse
Some runes are symmetrical — Gebo, Hagalaz, Isa, Jera, Sowilo, Ingwaz, Dagaz and Eihwaz read the same either way and have no merkstave form.
Should you use reversals?
Reversals are optional. Many readers use them for nuance; others read every rune upright. Choose one approach and stay consistent.
See orientations in a reading
Our rune casts include orientation, so you can practice reading upright and reversed runes.