Tiwaz (ᛏ) is the seventeenth rune of the Elder Futhark and the first rune of the third aett. It symbolizes justice, honor, and the righteous path. The shape of this rune resembles an upward-pointing spear or arrow, which emphasizes strength, clarity, and taking decisive action. It is named after Tyr, the Norse god of law, justice, and war, known for his courageous self-sacrifice and commitment to doing what’s right, no matter the cost.

For me, Tiwaz represents standing firm in our principles, even when it may be difficult. It’s about taking the high road, doing what’s right, and leading with integrity. When we’re faced with tough choices, Tiwaz reminds us to act with honor and stay true to our values. Tyr’s sacrifice of his hand to bind Fenrir perfectly captures this rune’s energy – choosing justice, even when it requires personal loss.

But Tiwaz isn’t only about external justice. It also asks us to reflect on our own sense of integrity. Whether that’s making ethical decisions in our daily lives, or standing up for something we believe in, Tiwaz pushes us to be courageous and to stick to what’s right. Ultimately, this rune reminds us that real victory comes from acting with honor, not taking shortcuts.

Historical Info:

Tiwaz takes its name from Tyr, a highly respected god in Norse and Germanic mythology. Tyr was associated with law, order, and fair judgment. His role as a war god wasn’t about aggression but about being on the side of what is right and just. 

In the Old English Rune Poem, Tiwaz is likened to a guiding star, one that never falters. This reflects the idea of unwavering principles, staying the course, and acting with integrity even when times are hard.

Basic Information

• Name: Tiwaz (Proto-Norse), also known as Tir (Old Norse) or Tiw (Old English)
• Pronunciation: “TEE-waz”
• English Translation: The god Tyr
• Symbol: ᛏ

Meanings of Tiwaz
Tiwaz is the rune of justice, integrity, and courageous action. When it appears in a reading, it often signals a need to do what’s right, even when it’s hard. It speaks to leadership that’s rooted in fairness, and to victories earned through discipline, not shortcuts. Tiwaz doesn’t promise an easy path, but it does promise one that’s honorable.

Tiwaz may point to:

• Justice and fair outcomes: A situation will likely resolve justly, especially when approached with honesty and integrity.

• Victory through right action: Success is possible, but only through principled choices. This is not the rune of quick wins – it’s the long, honest road.

• Leadership and authority: A call to step into a leadership role or to act decisively and with responsibility.

• Courage and self-sacrifice: Doing the right thing might require discomfort, self-restraint, or putting others ahead of your own wants.

• Honor and integrity: A reminder to stay true to your values, even when it would be easier not to.

• Personal integrity and self-discipline: Encouragement to hold the line, stay steady, and commit to what matters most.

• Conflict resolution: A sign that disputes may be resolved through fairness, patience, and a principled approach.

When Tiwaz shows up for me, it usually asks: What’s the honorable move here? Not the convenient one, not the loudest or fastest – but the choice I’ll still respect myself for in six months. It’s a rune that calls for leadership from the inside out.

Challenging Aspects of Tiwaz (Merkstave)
Tiwaz can be read in a reversed or blocked form, and when it shows up that way, it often reflects a break in integrity, misused authority, or a struggle to act with courage.

In a challenging position, Tiwaz may point to:

• Acting without integrity, like cutting corners, avoiding responsibility, or compromising values

• Power struggles or leadership driven by ego rather than fairness

• Fear of doing what’s right because it feels too hard, lonely, or thankless

• Burnout from constantly putting others first without support or recognition

• Injustice or unfair outcomes despite best efforts

When I’ve pulled Tiwaz in this position, it’s usually when I’m avoiding a decision I know is right but really don’t want to face. It can be a call to realign with your values or to notice where you’ve been giving away your power instead of owning it. 

Tiwaz is directly connected to Tyr. The most well-known myth involving Tyr is when he offered his hand as a pledge while the gods bound Fenrir, the monstrous wolf. Tyr’s sacrifice for the greater good shows the heart of Tiwaz’s energy, doing what is just, even when it’s personally difficult or costly.

This myth teaches us that justice requires sacrifice and sometimes even suffering. But in the end, it’s the commitment to fairness and honor that defines true leadership and courage.

Modern interpretations of Tiwaz often associate it with:

• Mars: The planet of war and courage, reflecting Tiwaz’s warrior-like qualities.
• Libra: Libra’s emphasis on balance, justice, and fair play resonates with Tiwaz’s connection to justice and law.
• 1st House: The house of self-identity and leadership, aligning with Tiwaz’s focus on authority and integrity.

These are modern associations, not traditional links, and serve as a guide for those who wish to bridge runes with astrology.

Tiwaz calls us to reflect on matters of courage and justice. As you reflect on Tiwaz, consider:

• Where in your life could you benefit from more courage or integrity?
• Are there situations where you need to make a difficult but right decision?
• How can you embody the principles of justice and fair play in your daily life?
• Are there any promises or commitments you need to honor?

Take time to meditate on the Tiwaz rune. Visualize its shape as a bright arrow pointing upward, guiding you toward right action. Journal about any insights or feelings that arise, and explore how you can integrate Tiwaz’s principles into your life.

In modern magical practices, Tiwaz is often used for:

• Justice Spells: Incorporating Tiwaz into rituals aimed at achieving fair outcomes or winning legal disputes.
• Courage Enhancement: Using Tiwaz’s energy to boost bravery and resolve in difficult situations.
• Oath-Binding: Some practitioners use Tiwaz in rituals involving promises or oaths to strengthen integrity.
• Leadership Rites: Calling upon Tiwaz for guidance in leadership roles or important decisions.

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