The Rune of Gebo represents the
act of "giving" in all its forms. Gebo represents a unification of
two forces for the betterment of both parties, hence a gift for a gift. It is
the gift that brings connections between people through exchange and represents
the unity and honor that is created between those people when a gift exchange
takes place.
The story of Brunhild is a good one to illustrate the
meaning of this rune. According to legend, the hero Sigurd fought and killed a
mighty dragon and took a ring from its hoard. Venturing onwards, he passed
through a magical circle of fire where he found a sleeping warrior wearing
shining armor. He cut through the armor and revealed Brunhild, a beautiful
Valkyrie who had been kept there by Odin until a mortal man was brave enough to
rescue her. Sigurd then gave her the ring and pledged his unending love to her.
Gebo also symbolizes the
connection between the gods and people. This rune represents those places where
our path intersects with the Gods, and allows us to begin to form conscious
relationships. Such relationships are strengthened and sanctified by the
exchange of gifts. Gifts in the sense of sacrifice and of generosity are
indications of balance in all matters in relation to exchanges, including
contracts, personal relationships and partnerships. As Ásatrúar we have
partnerships with our Gods, they are our friends, and our allies.
Just as we do with the Gods we
should do with our family and friends. When we are invited to a friend’s home
for dinner, a party, or other event we should return this gift with a gift. This
act of giving strengthens the bonds of friendship and brings us all closer as a
community.
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