Sowilo (ᛋ) is the sixteenth rune of the Elder Futhark and the eighth rune of the second aett. It symbolizes the sun’s energy – which brings success, clarity, and life. The shape of this rune resembles the rays of the sun – or flashes of lightning. This reminds us of those breakthrough moments where things become clear, allowing us to move forward.

For me, Sowilo embodies the drive for success and the feeling of victory after overcoming challenges. It’s that moment when, after a long struggle, everything suddenly clicks into place. Sowilo is a reminder that, just as the sun rises each day, bringing light and warmth, success and victory are always possible if we stay determined.

This rune isn’t just about external achievements. It’s about those flashes of insight that guide us through tough times. Whether we’re working toward a goal or navigating a challenge, Sowilo encourages us to keep pushing forward. It represents the inner strength and the perseverance needed to reach success. With each breakthrough, we’re moving closer to our victories.

Historical Context

Sowilo derives from the Proto-Norse word for “sun.” In ancient Germanic cultures, the sun symbolized life, guidance, and victory. Its shape is a visual representation of the sun’s rays or lightning, highlighting its connection to clarity and forward movement. In the Old English Rune Poem, Sigel is described as a guiding light for sailors, emphasizing its role in offering hope and direction during uncertain times.

Basic Information

• Name: Sowilo (Proto-Norse), also known as Sigel (Old English) or Sol
• Pronunciation: “SOH-wee-lo”
• English Translation: Sun
• Symbol: ᛋ

Meanings of Sowilo
Sowilo is the rune of the sun – of clarity, success, and illumination. It brings warmth, direction, and the energy to keep going. When it appears in a reading, it’s often a sign that you’re on the right path, and that victory is not only possible, but likely if you stay focused and aligned with your purpose. Sowilo represents both outer achievement and inner light.

Sowilo may point to:

• Success and achievement: Recognition, goals reached, and visible progress. A sign that you’re headed toward victory or already in its glow.

• Vitality and health: An increase in physical energy, motivation, or overall well-being. This rune carries life-force energy.

• Clarity and insight: A situation is becoming clearer, or you’re gaining the perspective you need to move forward with confidence.

• Optimism and positive energy: Encouragement to stay hopeful and self-assured, especially when facing uncertainty.

• Victory over adversity: Challenges can be overcome through willpower, focus, and a clear sense of direction.

• Personal growth and empowerment: An invitation to trust your inner light and embrace what makes you powerful.

• Spiritual illumination: A connection to spiritual clarity, awakening, or an energetic breakthrough.

• Goal orientation: The energy to pursue and achieve long-term goals with purpose and drive.

For me, Sowilo often appears when I’ve been doubting my direction or questioning my strength. It shows up like a spotlight – cutting through confusion and reminding me that I already know the way. I just need to trust my own clarity and keep going.

Challenging Aspects of Sowilo
Sowilo does not have a traditional merkstave (reversed) form due to its symmetrical shape, but it can still carry challenging energy depending on the surrounding runes or context of a reading.

In a more difficult position, Sowilo may point to:

• Burnout from overexertion or constant striving

• Overconfidence or a tendency to bulldoze ahead without reflection

• Fixation on external success over internal alignment

• A loss of direction masked by busyness or forced optimism

• The need to reconnect with your true source of motivation and light

For me, when Sowilo shows up in a reading where things already feel off, it’s usually a cue to slow down and recalibrate. Am I chasing a goal that actually matters to me—or just trying to prove something? Am I shining too brightly in all directions without grounding myself first? It’s a rune that brings energy and clarity, but only when I’m using it in the right way.

Sowilo is closely tied to Sunna (Sol), the Norse goddess who drives the sun’s chariot across the sky, bringing light and warmth to the world. The sun’s power to chase away darkness is central to Sowilo’s energy, embodying both life and triumph over challenges.

While the Elder Futhark and astrology come from different systems, many modern practitioners find value in drawing connections between them. Linking Sowilo to astrological symbols can offer a richer understanding – especially if you already work with planetary or zodiacal energies in your practice.

Modern associations often connect Sowilo to:

• The Sun: As the central life-giving force in astrology, the Sun governs vitality, purpose, visibility, and self-expression, all qualities that echo through Sowilo’s energy. This rune radiates clarity and confidence, much like the Sun’s illuminating presence.

• Leo: Ruled by the Sun, Leo is known for its boldness, creative spark, and leadership. Its radiant and expressive nature aligns with Sowilo’s themes of personal power, visibility, and success through authenticity.

• The 5th House: In astrology, the fifth house governs creativity, joy, play, and personal expression, qualities that mirror the bright, purposeful energy of Sowilo. This is where we shine, create, and connect with what lights us up.

These associations are modern interpretations rather than traditional ones, but they can help bridge the gap between symbolic systems. If Sowilo appears in a reading and you’re familiar with solar astrology, consider how this rune might echo the energy of Leo season, a solar return, or a burst of creative confidence—the kind that calls you to step into the spotlight and move with purpose.

As you work with Sowilo, consider:

• Where in your life could you benefit from more optimism and positive energy?
• Are there goals you’ve been hesitant to pursue that Sowilo’s energy could help you achieve?
• How can you better tap into your inner strength and willpower?
• In what ways can you bring more light and guidance into your life and the lives of others?

Take time to meditate on the Sowilo rune, perhaps by visualizing its shape as a bright sun or lightning bolt, radiating light and energy. Journal about any insights or feelings that arise during your reflection. Sowilo’s energy reminds us that clarity, success, and personal growth often come through those moments of illumination that light our way forward.

Sowilo carries the bright, steady energy of the sun. This makes it a powerful rune to work with in magical practices focused on clarity, strength, and forward movement. It’s the spark that cuts through confusion. The warmth that fuels growth. And the light that helps you see your path clearly. Whether you’re calling in success or simply trying to get your energy back, Sowilo can amplify your intention and illuminate the way.

Sowilo’s energy is often used in magical practices for:

• Success Spells: To attract achievement in personal goals, career advancements, or creative projects. Carving Sowilo into a candle, charging a sigil, or visualizing its shape during manifestation work can help align your actions with victory.

• Healing and Vitality: Its solar energy makes it ideal for physical healing, energetic cleansing, or restoring vitality after burnout. Sowilo can be used in health-focused rituals or visualized over the body to promote recovery and strength.

• Clarity and Guidance: When the path ahead feels murky, Sowilo can be called on for illumination. It’s particularly useful in divination spreads or meditative work when seeking insight during times of uncertainty.

• Energy Boosting: Sowilo works well in spells or rituals aimed at breaking through stagnation, shaking off fatigue, or increasing personal motivation. It helps reignite your internal fire and get things moving again.

Sowilo is a rune of confidence, action, and alignment. It doesn’t just show the way forward it helps you believe you’re capable of walking it.

Third Ætt (Tyr's Ætt)
17. ᛏ (Tiwaz) - Tyr, justice
18. ᛒ (Berkano) - birch, fertility
19. ᛖ (Ehwaz) - horse, trust
20. ᛗ (Mannaz) - human, self
21. ᛚ (Laguz) - water, flow
22. ᛜ (Ingwaz) - Ing, fertility
23. ᛟ (Othala) - inheritance, homeland
24. ᛞ (Dagaz) - day, breakthrough