Customer Reviews

The Relationship Runes: A Compass for the Heart

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Ralph Blum should NOT be who to consult if you're looking for a work that is based in historical accuracy and the ancient Germanic traditions. If you prefer a more accurate take, based on decades of research and practice, that is respectful and as true as possible to the Germanic Tradition, I urge you to look elsewhere. I can highly recommend the following titles: (1) Futhark by Edred Thorsson, (2) Northern Mysteries and Magick (Runes and Feminine Powers) by Freya Aswynn, and (3) Taking Up The Runes by Diana L. Paxson (she cites the contributions of both Thorsson and Aswynn often, and shares their observations in comparision with her own).

The first set of runes I purchased was a Blum set in an occult bookstore in San Diego. The first clue that Blum wasn't for me was his assertion that his original meanings for the runes were obtained from ONE NIGHT of meditation on the symbols - not only that, but he created his own order for the runes based simply on the order that he drew them from the bag. There is a definite order to the futhark that is very important to maintain, as, there are associations between the runes and the sequence they are traditionally ordered.

Ralph Blum's contribution, in my opinion, is infuriating, because he disregards the tradition in favor of his personal interpretation which is NOT true to the traditions, and you will find that the authors who are respected for their knowledge of the tradition and their extensive practice - DO NOT cite Ralph Blum as a source in their bibliographies and recommended reading lists. Start with Thorsson's Futhark - or if you want to learn more about the icelandic runes (the younger futhark), Thorsson also has a great book called Northern Magic, which also includes the only section I have ever seen dedicated to a system of traditional american colonial magic. A wonderful find for those looking for a system of magic closer to American history and tradition ("Pennsylvania dutch").

You must have the latest of Ralph Blum's Rune books. My partner and I love consulting the runes when in times of need - and inspiration always follows! This "Compass for the Heart" lights your way when the path is dark or simply wanders irrationally! Blum's carefully crafted wisdom melts any blocks so you can see your way back to open heart and loving arms. Give it to your loved ones too!

Mr. Blum once again shows that he understands the nature of oracles from a clear, genuine, and personal perspective. The challenges and magic that is the nature of relationships flows through his words and into your awareness as you work with this oracle. He is the bridge between the grounded tradition of the old ways and the insight and psychological understanding of our modern times. If you love tools which open and inspire then this is one to add to your collection. If you think that you already understand the runes, stop and take a look at this new perspective into this classic favorite.

I was pleased with the purchase. It was not only the book, but a set of Runes too!

Having met many loosers in my life and seraching in the wrong places and at the wrong time. I truely needed a spiritual awakening when it comes to relathiopships. Healing runes was a great place to start and now relationship runes is a great addition. Even if you are in a relationship now, it definitely opens doors to better thing and happier days in ones life.

There is a movement happening, as the previous reviewer implies, for Northern Heathens to speak out against the exploitation of their sacred traditions by New-Age cultural pirates.

I was once told by a Native American that the most frustrating thing to him was seeing his traditions parodied by buckskin wearing New-Age gurus, who really had no idea of the culture they were stealing from.

This is just how Heathens feel about Blum's work. The runes are held sacred by many Northern traditions, and this is yet another book that cashes in on runes as a popular vehicle to carry the author's real message.

Surely, we can talk about relationships without bringing runes into it.

As a Runes advocate, I was therefore predisposed to this product. The book's content was excellent. I didn't know actual rune "stones" would be included with the book--but the "stones" were flimsy plastic pieces that might have been omitted altogether. And the book's printing is light pink, so I can only read the words in bright light. As an author myself, I would never have agreed to this publication set-up! For me, both these points detracted from the content of the book. How disappointing, because I believe the information is important and valuable.
Dr. Gilda Carle
[...]

I really enjoy the relationship runes book. It is so accurate it is scary & exciting at the same time. Personally, I choose to do an am & pm reading. I would recommend this book to anyone (even if you are not in a relationship - as I was not in one when I started the book). I learn something new from it everyday.

The shipment was not available and did not arrive until weeks after the due date. Christmas gift gone astray. :(