Runic inscriptions in The Middle Ages

When Uvdal stave church was built in the 12th century, the common language was Old Norse. Then, medieval runes were used. The runic letters are organized in a system called “Futhark,” named after the first six signs in the runic alphabet. Similarly, our modern alphabet is named after the first two signs; “alpha” and “beta.” 

Many medieval runic inscriptions are scribbles on walls, found on church walls or pillars. Often only a few runes are visible, a name or a short sentence such as “NN carved these runes” or “May God aid NN.” Seven runic inscriptions have been found in Uvdal stave church. One of them is barely legible, while others are short and give little meaning. Three inscriptions are of the Futhark itself and the last reads the two words “Our Father.”  

On a pillar in the corner of the choir, the two first signs of the Futhark are carved. On the center pillar of the church a complete Futhark is carved, only lacking the last runic sign. Why were parts of the Futhark carved in the church? Were they supposed to be visible to the congregation for educational purposes? Or are these remnants of runes involved in rituals?  

There are several examples of how runes may have been used during rituals in the Nordic Viking Age and Iron Age. Such activities may have continued into the Middle Ages, perhaps secretively. In older times, knowledge about the written language was rare. In pre-Christian mythology, secret knowledge of the runes is given to Óðinn as part of his ability to perform secret magic, or “seiðr.”  

To “carve runes” is often described as a sacred ritualized action in mythology and pre-Christian runic inscriptions could be seen to contain hidden messages and knowledge, often unattainable to the masses. Therefore, runes may have been seen as containing a magical power as part of the supernatural forces. 

Even though medieval runes were much more widespread amongst the population in knowledge and usage, older ideas of the power of the runes may have lingered on through time. Such powers find their natural place also in the medieval church, as part of the supernatural sphere experienced there.