If you are starting out with Elder Futhark divination readings, you’re probably still getting to grips with their meanings. So if you’ve drawn the Gebo rune, you’re curious about what it means.
The Gebo rune is associated with partnership and exchange. It is the seventh symbol of the Elder Futhark alphabet. The Gebo sign is ruled under Freya’s aett. The Gebo symbol is also related to generosity and living in harmony.
That’s a brief idea of the Gebo symbol, but if you want to know more, keep reading. This guide will tell you everything you want to know about this rune symbol. You’ll also learn how to use it with divination and energy work.
Let’s get started.
What is the Gebo Rune?
Gebo is the seventh symbol of the 24 Elder Futhark Runes. You pronounce it as gay-bow.
The whole elder futhark alphabet is split into three lots of eight. A Norse deity rules over each set as an aettir (family).
Gebo is the seventh symbol of the first (Freya’s) Aett. Freya was the Norse goddess of love, fertility, beauty, gold, and death.
Freya’s aett represents runes that encourage change and creation. These runes help to keep us on the right path when moving through everyday life.
For growth, we need to hone our interpersonal skills. The ability to interact with others infiltrates every area of our lives and impacts our potential.
In addition to Gebo, the other symbols in this Aettir include the:
What is the Meaning of the Gebo Rune?
In a general rune reading, Gebo represents giving and receiving between two people. The translation means ‘gift.’ This is symbolic of the exchange of physical or emotional energy that builds connections.
Gebo is a rune of interactions. It encourages you to reflect upon what is being put into and taken from a relationship, even with yourself.
In the modern day, we see a representation of Gebo with the x (kiss) symbol at the end of messages. Non-Christians can often refer to x-mas when we celebrate with the exchange of gifts, food, and company.
Gebo is excellent for building connections in all areas of your life. The aim is to create harmony and balance between both parties to keep everyone happy.
Gebo Keywords:
- Gift
- Generosity
- Partnership
- Exchange
- Interaction
How to read the Gebo Rune
Rune divination starts with you having a question or intention in mind. Drawing the Gebo rune can bring answers to that which you seek guidance.
We’ve already discussed the general meaning of the Gebo rune. Yet, you may find this doesn’t really relate to your intention or question.
Gebo is not a chief rune for some intentions. On its own, it doesn’t always give the depth of answer you need.
When you’ve drawn a Gebo rune, it’s always better you get context from other runes. Often the order you read them will give you more details about the message of the Gebo.
On that note, the meanings in this guide are not set in stone. As a beginner, they may help you decipher the message’s meaning in your rune reading.
Use your own judgment and intuition to guide you through.
Can Gebo be reversed?
Gebo is not a rune that can be reversed. That’s because the symbol looks the same in both upright and reversed positions therefore, it’s impossible to know which one is intended.
Although the Gebo rune doesn’t have a typical reverse (merkstave) position, it can ‘lie in opposition.’
Some rune casters will assign opposite or negative meaning to Gebo in a sideways position.
Negativity may also be evident from other runes that have been cast.
A negative Gebo reading can signal that you must be mindful of reciprocity. Consider if your interactions are mutually beneficial to both parties. Don’t take advantage of others, and don’t let them take advantage of you.
Negative Gebo relates to an imbalance somewhere along the line. Usually, other runes will help to give you further detail into what area of your life to focus on.
You may choose not to consider Gebo lying in opposition as a meaning. But, you could be missing an important message from the Divine.
Gebo For Love
Upright
The Gebo rune is an intense love rune. It symbolizes sexuality and the giving and receiving of emotions between two lovers. It can signal a harmonious relationship or a firm commitment between two people. It’s a rune that can exchange of rings in a marriage or vow renewal.
The Gebo represents the hard work both of you are putting into the relationship to make it work. It relates to the sacrifices and compromises that you need to maintain balance. Both partners are meeting each other’s needs
Lying in Opposition
The negative reading of Gebo in love signals an imbalance in a relationship. One side is physically or emotionally sacrificing much more than the other.
Gebo in opposition, can also relate to loneliness or a toxic co-dependency worth another. It can also indicate that you are incompatible with your partner due to your inability or unwillingness to create harmony.
Gebo for Family and Friends
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When Gebo is drawn for family and friends matters, it indicates a strong support network. There is mutual sharing of emotions and help in times of need. Gebo encourages you to share your emotions and time with friends and family to maintain strong bonds.
Gebo is related to large gatherings and celebrations with family and friends present. Eat, drink, and be merry with those you love and care for.
Lying in Opposition
The negative reading of Gebo for this intention signals these relationships may be detrimental. Are you giving too much of yourself, or are you being too demanding of others?
Remember that Gebo represents what you give to others, not just expecting them to carry the weight all the time.
Consider if one party is not making an effort and communication is one-sided. If you feel disrespected or a backup choice, it’s time to discuss if you need to part ways. Ending things amicably because you’re gone in different directions is better than falling out and having no closure.
Gebo for Health and wellbeing
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Gebo drawn for health is firmly related to good self-care skills. You can’t pour from an empty cup. So don’t expect to give to others if you don’t care for yourself first. Prioritize looking after yourself physically and mentally before you commit too much to others.
Gebo represents contentment and peace in your life. So if you feel that way, keep doing what makes you feel truly in balance.
Lying in Opposition
The negative reading of Gebo for health can signal that exchange with another has drained you of all your energy. Someone may be expecting too much from you right now, and it’s impacting your physical and emotional health.
You are also likely to be neglecting your self-care. You’re probably experiencing symptoms that your body systems are out of sync. This includes headache, muscle pains, poor sleep, and low mood. It’s time to show your body you appreciate all it does for you.
Gebo For Money and finances
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In matters of money, Gebo can represent strong financial partners. Exchanges are likely mutually beneficial, and each party is satisfied with its financial reward. You may also experience generosity by giving or receiving money.
Gebo can also signal that you will have a good experience with a service. They may even exceed your expectations, creating a loyal and trusting connection.
Lying in Opposition
A negative reading of Gebo can relate to someone who has been stealing money or attempting to bribe you. It can also relate to an exchange of money with expected repayment. You may be owed money or are in debt yourself.
Gebo can also represent an imbalance in relationships with someone due to money. This may be due to coming into wealth or significant financial losses. You may find out who you can trust in these situations.
Gebo for Career
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When Gebo is drawn in career intentions, it signals that you have secured a role in an area you are incredibly talented. That means your skills benefit others while also helping you achieve career satisfaction.
Gebo can also represent that your company, colleagues, and contract are perfect. You feel satisfied and productive in your career.
Lying in Opposition
A negative Gebo reading in a career intention indicates that your current employer expects too much of you. This is likely when they ask more from your role without increasing pay or removing benefits.
You may also be considered a workaholic and put your career before more meaningful relationships in your life. Gebo reminds you to take a step back and evaluate if you are giving too much to your career.
Gebo for Personal development
Upright
Gebo is an excellent rune for exploring your social skills. It’s an opportunity to learn more about people and how they may respond to you. Learning how to deal with imbalances such as rejection, abuse, or unrequited love is necessary.
Gebo encourages you to try out new passions or continue developing one that brings you joy. You will also benefit from involvement with charity or volunteering work.
Lying in Opposition
A negative Gebo reading can indicate that you are unwilling to sacrifice your comfort zone to discover more about yourself. You are happy to stay with what you know even if it means you won’t progress in life.
It can also indicate that you need to work on behaviors that are impacting others. You may not be showing compassion or forgiveness to someone who looks up to you.
Gebo for Spirituality
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Drawing a Gebo rune indicates giving and receiving between higher realms. You receive wisdom from the divine and repay it by returning positive energy through using your natural gifts and talents.
Gebo is excellent to use with shamanic journeying and traversing worlds. It encourages balance in making sure all your needs are met.
Lying in Opposition
A reversed Gebo warns that neglecting spiritual practices won’t benefit you in the long run. The higher powers will give you the guidance you need if you do the work in times of hardship.
Gebo is a rune of Karma. You can only get back what you are putting in. Consider how you’ve been treating others and if you have bad karma coming your way.
Magical uses
- Love Magic
- Union with deities
- Increasing relationship harmony
- Accessing divine wisdom
- Promoting balance
Gebo Rune Associations
The Gebo rune connects with many other universal energies. These may suggest ways to incorporate the Gebo energy into your divination work.
Gebo has been associated with the following
| Animals | Raven, wolf, Oxen |
| Archangel | Chamuel |
| Body | Lungs |
| Chakra | Heart |
| Colour | Deep blue |
| Crystals | Sapphire |
| Element | Air |
| God/Goddesses | Gefn |
| Half month | September 28th – October 13th |
| Herb | Heartease |
| Hour | 18.30-19.30 |
| Letter | G |
| Incense | Patchouli |
| Mythology | Völsunga Saga |
| Number | 7 |
| Ruling planet | Venus |
| Tarot | Lovers |
| Tree | Ash, Elm |
| Zodiac | Pisces |
Anglo-Saxon Gebo Rune Poem
Generosity brings credit and honor, which support one’s dignity;
it furnishes help and subsistence
to all broken men who are devoid of aught else.
Gebo Galdr (Runic Chant)
Gebo gebo gebo Gu ga gi ge go Gub gab gib geb gob Og eg ig ag ug G a a a a a a f f f f f f
Gebo Rune Other Names
- Old Germanic name: Geuua
- Old Norwegian name: Gipt, Giof
- Anglo-Saxon name: Geofu, Gifu (Gyfu)
- Old Celtic name: Giof
- Old Icelandic name: Gjof
Final thoughts
Gebo is a rune of partnership between people. It encourages us to build bonds with others and to give back to society. Your interpersonal skills are shaped by learning to manage the good and bad that come with an exchange. It also relates to using your talents and abilities to make your mark in the world.
Gebo promotes love and balance between people. Teaching you about healthy sacrifice and compromise to co-exist happily.
In opposition, it alerts you to be aware of what you give and take from others. Unhappiness is created when one side takes or expects too much from the other.
Use the Gebo rune to harness these energies into your life and divination work.
This article provides an illuminating insight into the meaning and divination readings of the Gebo Rune, truly a fascinating read for those curious about ancient symbols and their significance in modern spirituality!