Elteber
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Previously, a short and well-written article on Ancient Turkic Runes was published by Der Oriental 666. Although that article provided basic information about Turkic Runes, it did not discuss their qualities and functions. As someone who knows Turkish and has been researching these runes for a while, I wanted to write an article on this subject. First of all, I want to clarify that the purpose of this article is not to present Turkic Runes as an alternative to Futhark or other power words, but to give the respect this ancient tradition deserves and to highlight their depth.Unfortunately, this tradition has been so neglected that even among Turks today, the significance of Turkic runes is not well understood. By writing about this topic on both Oriental and Turkish forums, I aim to address this gap. Additionally, according to High Priest HoodedCobra666, while they may possess some power, they do not seem as strong and reliable as the methods we currently use. Therefore, I do not recommend using them as a magical method, but rather for research and knowledge purposes.
Aside from the points mentioned above, I would like to provide a few concise and clear pieces of information. Turkic Runes, like those in Futhark, correspond to certain meaningful words. However, unlike Futhark, the words corresponding to Turkic Runes are monosyllabic. Another major difference between Futhark and Turkic Runes is that some of the Turkic Runes are paired with each other. This is called polarity. Some Turkic Runes are polarized, while others are not. The reason for this lies in the vowel harmony rules found in languages classified within the Ural-Altaic language family. In Turkish, there is a rule called major vowel harmony. According to this rule, all vowel sounds in a native Turkish word are either front vowels or back vowels. A native Turkish word cannot contain both front and back vowels in different syllables. This rule is also reflected in Turkic Runes. There are different variants of Turkic Runes that give consonants, with one starting with a front vowel and the other with a back vowel. To explain with a simple example, the front vowel variant eb (𐰋) corresponds to the back vowel variant ab (𐰉). In short, while Turkish words like "bars" and "bilge" begin with the letter b in the Latin alphabet, they start with different letters when written in the Orkhon alphabet/Turkic Runes.
This is not merely a phonetic feature. There is also semantic opposition (antithesis) between paired Turkic Runes due to vowel harmony. Although no general term has been coined for this, some researchers refer to it as the state of polarity. In this article, I will address polarized runes together. This will be a more accurate method for understanding their meanings. Additionally, some academics refer to Turkic Runes as tamgas (seals). I also prefer to define them as tamgas rather than Turkic Runes, but for the sake of those unfamiliar, I will use both terms together in this article. While examining the runes/tamgas, I will occasionally relate them to symbols in Futhark, astrology, and different alphabets. This relationship is made from a spiritual perspective rather than a materialistic/historical one. Since spirituality is universal, similar experiences are expressed in similar ways. Therefore, the symbols I relate to each other do not need to have a historical connection. I claim they are related because they touch upon the same spiritual essence. Finally, Turkic Runes/Tamgas are not sequenced. Hence, I will write them in the order I desire.
1. Analysis of the Ağ/Ag (𐰍) and Eğ/Eg (𐰏) Tamgas/Runes
The Ağ symbol/rune (𐰍) closely resembles the astrological symbol for Uranus (♅). Even though the Yenisei version of the rune (𐰎) looks slightly different, its overall shape still reminds one of the Uranus symbol. As you know, Uranus governs technology, the internet, and the future. Additionally, in Greek, Uranus means "Sky". I mention this because the connection between Uranus and the rune goes beyond just the shape. The word "Ağ/Ag" is related to the verb "ağmak" (to rise) and to the word "ağ" (web). This rune is generally associated with concepts like rising, upward movement, and the sky, much like Uranus.
On the other hand, the Eğ/Eg symbol/rune (𐰏) is related to the Turkish word "egin" (animal's back, shoulder) and the verb "eğilmek" (to bend). Its appearance already suggests a bending shape. If Ağ/Ag represents air, vertical movement, masculinity, and rising, then Eğ/Eg symbolizes earth, horizontal movement, femininity, and falling. I would like to further elaborate the concepts of vertical and horizontal movement. Many species walk on four legs, with their field of vision directed towards the ground, making their experience earth-oriented. However, more advanced species that stand on two legs (forming a pentagram shape) and look up to the sky begin to develop intelligence and understand nature. These two runes seem to directly related to this concept. Their opposition is clearly understood through the directions they indicate.
2. Analysis of the Ar (𐰺) and Er (𐰼) Tamgas/Runes
The Ar symbol/rune (𐰺) is thought to be related to the Old Turkic word "ar," which means to deceive, and "arılmak" (to diminish, to perish). This rune generally has negative connotations, associated with deceit, trickery, and underhanded actions. The Er symbol/rune (𐰼), on the other hand, is related to modern Turkish words like "erkek" (male), "eril" (masculine), "iri" (large), and "erk" (power). It is connected with concepts of maturity, masculinity, greatness, and strength. I believe the protrusions on the rune, pointing left and right, represent horns. The glyph for Aries and the word "Er," which also means man and valiant in Turkish, support this interpretation. In contemporary Turkish, it has also come to mean soldier.
To better understand the contrast between these runes, it is helpful to know about ideal human archetypes such as the Greek "Kalos Kagathos" and the Confucian "Junzi." These archetypes often describe a virtuous, honorable, perfect, and noble person, usually portrayed as a masculine figure. Er is related to this because it denotes a valiant and a man. One of the best pieces of evidence for this is the Turkish word "erdem" (virtue), derived from the root "Er" as indicated by the rune. The English word "virtue" has a similar origin. In this sense, the contrast between these runes is seen in the actions they represent and their moral positions. Er (𐰼) signifies dominion, power, ethics, morality, and direct actions, while Ar denotes deceit, lies, trickery, immorality, and secretive actions.
A fun fact is that this rune (𐰼) might be related to the anime "Attack on Titan." Many believe the name "Eren Jeager" comes from the Turkish name "Eren." The name Eren derives from the root indicated by this rune, and in the anime, Eren being the holder of the Attack Titan perfectly matches the warrior meaning expressed by this rune. While I don't think Isayama directly studied this rune and named Eren subsequently, it seems like a fitting choice.
3. Analyses of the Ad (𐰑) and Ed (𐰓) Tamgas/Runes
The Ad tamga/rune (𐰑) is likely familiar to many; it resembles the glyph for the Aquarius zodiac sign. The Ed tamga/rune (𐰓), on the other hand, resembles the Gebo rune. The root indicated by the Ad tamga (𐰑) can be observed in modern Turkish words such as "ayırmak" (to separate), "ayrılık" (separation), and "ayak" (foot), through the d-y sound change. In these words, we can see the concepts of independence and progress associated with Aquarius. Additionally, it is known that the Aquarius zodiac sign governs the calves and ankles in the body. It is quite interesting that the Turkish word "ayak" (foot) etymologically originates from the root indicated by the Ad tamga (𐰑). I believe this tamga/rune is related to Aquarius energies. In JoS's calendars, independence works are done when the moon is in Aquarius. The exact meaning of this tamga/rune is to separate/divide.
The counterpart, the Ed rune/tamga (𐰓), resembles the Gebo rune both in shape and meaning. It is known that Gebo is associated with marriage, alliance, gift, commitment, and binding. These concepts directly contrast with the Ad tamga (𐰑). The root indicated by the Ed tamga (𐰓) can also be observed in modern Turkish through the d-y sound change, as seen in the word "eylem" (action). Originally, Ed meant "a useful thing." The Turkish word "iyi" (good) also derives from this root, with its original form being "edgü." Similarly, Gebo is materially related to gifts and commerce. I think there is a noticeable but subtle relationship here. If we focus solely on the shapes, Ad (𐰑) indicates two separate elements not touching each other, whereas Ed (𐰓) indicates two elements coming together. Their opposition seems related to separating and uniting.
4. Analysis of Ab (𐰉) and Eb (𐰋) Tamgas/Runes
As can be clearly seen, the Eb tamga (𐰋) is identical in shape to the Odal rune (ᛟ). The word "Eb" exists in modern Turkish as "Ev" due to the b-v sound change. This word means "house" in English. The Ab tamga (𐰉), on the other hand, has reached modern Turkish as "Av" with the same b-v sound change. This word means "hunt" or "hunting" in English. It is well known that the Odal rune is related to inheritance, lineage, ancestry, and land. Additionally, according to the explanation in JoS, it is also associated with circles/boundaries. It can also be used to access racial memory. The magical use of the Eb tamga seems parallel to the Odal rune, as both the shape and the meaning of "Eb" (house) and "Odal" (inheritance) are similar. Beyond this, the detail that Odal is related to boundaries is particularly significant because the verb "evirmek," derived from the root indicated by the Eb tamga, means to encircle a place. In this respect, it is related to forming a boundary.
The Ab tamga (𐰉) is found as the opposite of the Eb tamga (ᛟ). The meaning of the tamga, "Av" (hunt), which signifies capturing or obtaining something through personal effort, contrasts with Eb (house), which implies inherited property. I hypothesize that it is related to the acquisition of things and the fruition of efforts. Another important point is that the Turkish word "evren" (universe) also comes from the root indicated by the Eb tamga. In Old Turkish, "evren" referred to both the universe and the dragon, that is, the kundalini serpent. I have not seen any connections between Odal and kundalini. However, since there is a clear parallel between the Eb tamga and Odal, there might be a potential relationship.
5. Analysis of the At (𐱃) and İt (𐱅) Tamgas/Runes
This is a pair of tamgas that are harder to analyze. Nevertheless, we have enough data to make some comments about them. We see an example of polar tamgas being opposites in this pair as well. The At rune/tamga (𐱃) directly represents a horse, while the İt rune/tamga (𐱅) directly represents a dog. In Turkish, there is still an idiom that says "At iziyle it izinin karışması" ("the mixing of horse and dog tracks"), which emphasizes that two opposite and should-not-be-mixed things become indistinguishable. In the explanations related to the At rune/tamga (𐱃), I have seen that etymologically it signifies both horse and mountain. For the İt rune/tamga, it is said to indicate both dog and impulse.
Both the horse and the dog/wolf were extremely important animals for the ancient Central Asian and Siberian peoples. Archaeologists have noted that there were even separate graves made for wolves/dogs. It was not uncommon for a horse to be buried with its owner. The important position that dogs and horses held for their owners in everyday life were distinct beyond doubt, as illustrated by the grave example above. If we look at the At tamga (𐱃), we see that it consists of two combined figures. The upper part represents a human, while the lower part represents a horse. This tamga signifies unity. A rider is a person united with their horse. They go to war, travel, and are buried together with their horse.
The dog, however, is separate from its owner. Beyond this, we see a similar relationship in their secondary meanings. Mountains are fixed and associated with stability. Scientifically, they are found in earthquake zones but are in positions where faults balance. In this respect, the At tamga indicates a kind of balance and completion. The fact that hermits seeking unity retreat to the mountains can be related to this. The İt tamga, on the other hand, signifies a voluntary impulse (itki), desire, and transformation.
6. Analysis of the Ak (𐰴) and Ek (𐰚) Tamgas/Runes
The Ak tamga/rune (𐰴) appears in modern Turkish as the verb "akmak" (to flow). Its counterpart, the Ek tamga/rune (𐰚), has a symbol resembling a plant and appears in the verb "ekmek" (to sow). Both tamgas can be directly related to different aspects of fate. While the Ak tamga (𐰴) might describe the flow and events outside of our control, the Ek tamga (𐰚) might indicate elements related to our actions (sowing and reaping).
7. Analysis of the Ik Tamga/Rune (𐰶)
This tamga is one of the non-polar ones, meaning it does not have a pairing tamga. There is no consensus on the meaning it conveys, but some associate it with the verb "kıy" (to cut, to break, to punish). The word "kıymık" (splinter) comes from this root. The shape of the tamga resembles the Thurisaz rune. As you know, Thurisaz is related to thorn, sharpness and penetration. I think it has a similar function.
8. Analysis of the Um Tamga/Rune (𐰢)
Another non-polar tamga. It does not pair with another tamga. It is related to the verb "ummak" (to hope, to expect). Words like "amaç" (purpose), mutluluk (happines) and "umut" (hope) are also explained by this verb. Although the verb "ummak" is not found outside Turkish, words like "amaç" and "umut" exist in Persian. To avoid delving too deep into etymology, I will focus on the meaning of the verb "ummak." I think this tamga is related to "Aum." Especially expressing a hope or desire reminds one of the use of Aum and its derivatives (Om, Amin, Amen) at the end of prayers or when starting something.
9. Analysis of the İç Tamga/Rune (𐰱)
Again, a non-polar tamga. I am sure it will look familiar to everyone, as it looks exactly like the Algiz rune. This tamga, which means the inside of something, indirectly carries a similar meaning to Algiz. According to the Runesecrets website, besides protection, another concept of Algiz is the higher self. If this tamga points to a person's inner self, it probably has similar functions to Algiz.
10. Analysis of the Ant Tamga/Rune (𐰦)
Another non-polar tamga. The Turkish phrasal verb "ant içmek" (to take/drink an oath) and "antlaşma" (agreement) are derived from the root indicated by this tamga. The tamga directly means "oath." For the nomadic peoples of the Central Asian Steppes, an oath was a significant ritual. Wine was poured into an earthen cup, a few drops of blood were added, and it was drunk. The three dots within the tamga represent the blood. This tamga might also signify the gathering and synthesis of energies. One indication of this could be the number of blood drops represented as three. Numerologically, three points to the first combination, the trimurti, and the trinity of worlds. The oath is also associated with blood brotherhood. This ritual, performed by non-relatives, is a good example of unity. Additionally, it must have been a tamga used to seal honor, dignity, and agreements made with words.
11. Analysis of the Az Tamga/Rune (𐰔)
Another non-polar tamga. An interesting aspect of this tamga is its resemblance to the symbol of the Azov/Azak battalion. However, it was taken not from Turkish tamgas but from the German Wolfsangel rune. The Az Tamga (𐰔), also known as the "oz" tamga, has been associated with the swastika by some researchers. Words like "azmak" (to become aroused sexually) or "azıtmak" (to go astray) derive from this. I am skeptical about its association with the swastika and the Sun. The Sun governs Reda (order) and the path. Lastly, the entity named "Azmıç," said to trap and lead people astray, is related to the action indicated by this tamga.
12. Analysis of the Uç Tamga/Rune (𐰲)
This is the last tamga I will examine in this writing. This tamga forms the root of the modern Turkish verb "uçmak" (to fly). Originally, this root signified states like death, dreams, falling, and trance. There are narratives about shamans entering a trance, where their spirit flies to the astral plane in the form of a bird to meet the gods. Additionally, the sensation of falling when entering a trance is an important stage and experience. "Uç" (𐰲) conveys this meaning, and the Turkish word "uçurum" (cliff) also stems from this root. I believe the ancient Turkish concept of the afterlife "uçmag" comes from here and indicates the astral plane. I think it derives from the action indicated by the uç tamga, not from Manichean/Christian terminology. The shape of the tamga itself describes an upward movement.
Apart from the eighteen mentioned above, there are twenty more (𐰀𐰃𐰜𐰸𐰘𐰖𐰾𐰽𐰇𐰆𐰯𐱁𐰭𐰡𐰪𐰤𐰣𐰠𐰞) tamgas/runes. However, I don't plan on writing about them until I have a clear understanding of their meanings. There is also one another point I would like to highlight. There are 38 tamgas/runes in total among the Turks. Of these, twenty-four are polar and form twelve pairs: (𐰸 and 𐰜), (𐰖 and 𐰘), (𐱃 and 𐱅), (𐰽 and 𐰾), (𐰺 and 𐰼), (𐰆 and 𐰇), (𐰣 and 𐰤), (𐰉 and 𐰋), (𐰑 and 𐰓), (𐰍 and 𐰏), (𐰴 and 𐰚), (𐰞 and 𐰠). The numbers twelve and twenty-four are particularly important because there are various narratives among the Turks about the Tree of Life having seven, eight, nine or twelve branches. Here, the highest number being twelve corresponds to the tamga pairs. The Futhark and the Greek alphabet also have twenty-four letters. If I'm not mistaken, both traditions have their own Kabbalah. If these twelve tamga pairs correspond to the branches of the Tree of Life in the narrative, it might be possible that the Turks also had a hidden Kabbalah tradition. In any case, I think it's not a coincidence that the number twenty-four is common in all three traditions.
Aside from the points mentioned above, I would like to provide a few concise and clear pieces of information. Turkic Runes, like those in Futhark, correspond to certain meaningful words. However, unlike Futhark, the words corresponding to Turkic Runes are monosyllabic. Another major difference between Futhark and Turkic Runes is that some of the Turkic Runes are paired with each other. This is called polarity. Some Turkic Runes are polarized, while others are not. The reason for this lies in the vowel harmony rules found in languages classified within the Ural-Altaic language family. In Turkish, there is a rule called major vowel harmony. According to this rule, all vowel sounds in a native Turkish word are either front vowels or back vowels. A native Turkish word cannot contain both front and back vowels in different syllables. This rule is also reflected in Turkic Runes. There are different variants of Turkic Runes that give consonants, with one starting with a front vowel and the other with a back vowel. To explain with a simple example, the front vowel variant eb (𐰋) corresponds to the back vowel variant ab (𐰉). In short, while Turkish words like "bars" and "bilge" begin with the letter b in the Latin alphabet, they start with different letters when written in the Orkhon alphabet/Turkic Runes.
This is not merely a phonetic feature. There is also semantic opposition (antithesis) between paired Turkic Runes due to vowel harmony. Although no general term has been coined for this, some researchers refer to it as the state of polarity. In this article, I will address polarized runes together. This will be a more accurate method for understanding their meanings. Additionally, some academics refer to Turkic Runes as tamgas (seals). I also prefer to define them as tamgas rather than Turkic Runes, but for the sake of those unfamiliar, I will use both terms together in this article. While examining the runes/tamgas, I will occasionally relate them to symbols in Futhark, astrology, and different alphabets. This relationship is made from a spiritual perspective rather than a materialistic/historical one. Since spirituality is universal, similar experiences are expressed in similar ways. Therefore, the symbols I relate to each other do not need to have a historical connection. I claim they are related because they touch upon the same spiritual essence. Finally, Turkic Runes/Tamgas are not sequenced. Hence, I will write them in the order I desire.
1. Analysis of the Ağ/Ag (𐰍) and Eğ/Eg (𐰏) Tamgas/Runes
The Ağ symbol/rune (𐰍) closely resembles the astrological symbol for Uranus (♅). Even though the Yenisei version of the rune (𐰎) looks slightly different, its overall shape still reminds one of the Uranus symbol. As you know, Uranus governs technology, the internet, and the future. Additionally, in Greek, Uranus means "Sky". I mention this because the connection between Uranus and the rune goes beyond just the shape. The word "Ağ/Ag" is related to the verb "ağmak" (to rise) and to the word "ağ" (web). This rune is generally associated with concepts like rising, upward movement, and the sky, much like Uranus.
On the other hand, the Eğ/Eg symbol/rune (𐰏) is related to the Turkish word "egin" (animal's back, shoulder) and the verb "eğilmek" (to bend). Its appearance already suggests a bending shape. If Ağ/Ag represents air, vertical movement, masculinity, and rising, then Eğ/Eg symbolizes earth, horizontal movement, femininity, and falling. I would like to further elaborate the concepts of vertical and horizontal movement. Many species walk on four legs, with their field of vision directed towards the ground, making their experience earth-oriented. However, more advanced species that stand on two legs (forming a pentagram shape) and look up to the sky begin to develop intelligence and understand nature. These two runes seem to directly related to this concept. Their opposition is clearly understood through the directions they indicate.
2. Analysis of the Ar (𐰺) and Er (𐰼) Tamgas/Runes
The Ar symbol/rune (𐰺) is thought to be related to the Old Turkic word "ar," which means to deceive, and "arılmak" (to diminish, to perish). This rune generally has negative connotations, associated with deceit, trickery, and underhanded actions. The Er symbol/rune (𐰼), on the other hand, is related to modern Turkish words like "erkek" (male), "eril" (masculine), "iri" (large), and "erk" (power). It is connected with concepts of maturity, masculinity, greatness, and strength. I believe the protrusions on the rune, pointing left and right, represent horns. The glyph for Aries and the word "Er," which also means man and valiant in Turkish, support this interpretation. In contemporary Turkish, it has also come to mean soldier.
To better understand the contrast between these runes, it is helpful to know about ideal human archetypes such as the Greek "Kalos Kagathos" and the Confucian "Junzi." These archetypes often describe a virtuous, honorable, perfect, and noble person, usually portrayed as a masculine figure. Er is related to this because it denotes a valiant and a man. One of the best pieces of evidence for this is the Turkish word "erdem" (virtue), derived from the root "Er" as indicated by the rune. The English word "virtue" has a similar origin. In this sense, the contrast between these runes is seen in the actions they represent and their moral positions. Er (𐰼) signifies dominion, power, ethics, morality, and direct actions, while Ar denotes deceit, lies, trickery, immorality, and secretive actions.
A fun fact is that this rune (𐰼) might be related to the anime "Attack on Titan." Many believe the name "Eren Jeager" comes from the Turkish name "Eren." The name Eren derives from the root indicated by this rune, and in the anime, Eren being the holder of the Attack Titan perfectly matches the warrior meaning expressed by this rune. While I don't think Isayama directly studied this rune and named Eren subsequently, it seems like a fitting choice.
3. Analyses of the Ad (𐰑) and Ed (𐰓) Tamgas/Runes
The Ad tamga/rune (𐰑) is likely familiar to many; it resembles the glyph for the Aquarius zodiac sign. The Ed tamga/rune (𐰓), on the other hand, resembles the Gebo rune. The root indicated by the Ad tamga (𐰑) can be observed in modern Turkish words such as "ayırmak" (to separate), "ayrılık" (separation), and "ayak" (foot), through the d-y sound change. In these words, we can see the concepts of independence and progress associated with Aquarius. Additionally, it is known that the Aquarius zodiac sign governs the calves and ankles in the body. It is quite interesting that the Turkish word "ayak" (foot) etymologically originates from the root indicated by the Ad tamga (𐰑). I believe this tamga/rune is related to Aquarius energies. In JoS's calendars, independence works are done when the moon is in Aquarius. The exact meaning of this tamga/rune is to separate/divide.
The counterpart, the Ed rune/tamga (𐰓), resembles the Gebo rune both in shape and meaning. It is known that Gebo is associated with marriage, alliance, gift, commitment, and binding. These concepts directly contrast with the Ad tamga (𐰑). The root indicated by the Ed tamga (𐰓) can also be observed in modern Turkish through the d-y sound change, as seen in the word "eylem" (action). Originally, Ed meant "a useful thing." The Turkish word "iyi" (good) also derives from this root, with its original form being "edgü." Similarly, Gebo is materially related to gifts and commerce. I think there is a noticeable but subtle relationship here. If we focus solely on the shapes, Ad (𐰑) indicates two separate elements not touching each other, whereas Ed (𐰓) indicates two elements coming together. Their opposition seems related to separating and uniting.
4. Analysis of Ab (𐰉) and Eb (𐰋) Tamgas/Runes
As can be clearly seen, the Eb tamga (𐰋) is identical in shape to the Odal rune (ᛟ). The word "Eb" exists in modern Turkish as "Ev" due to the b-v sound change. This word means "house" in English. The Ab tamga (𐰉), on the other hand, has reached modern Turkish as "Av" with the same b-v sound change. This word means "hunt" or "hunting" in English. It is well known that the Odal rune is related to inheritance, lineage, ancestry, and land. Additionally, according to the explanation in JoS, it is also associated with circles/boundaries. It can also be used to access racial memory. The magical use of the Eb tamga seems parallel to the Odal rune, as both the shape and the meaning of "Eb" (house) and "Odal" (inheritance) are similar. Beyond this, the detail that Odal is related to boundaries is particularly significant because the verb "evirmek," derived from the root indicated by the Eb tamga, means to encircle a place. In this respect, it is related to forming a boundary.
The Ab tamga (𐰉) is found as the opposite of the Eb tamga (ᛟ). The meaning of the tamga, "Av" (hunt), which signifies capturing or obtaining something through personal effort, contrasts with Eb (house), which implies inherited property. I hypothesize that it is related to the acquisition of things and the fruition of efforts. Another important point is that the Turkish word "evren" (universe) also comes from the root indicated by the Eb tamga. In Old Turkish, "evren" referred to both the universe and the dragon, that is, the kundalini serpent. I have not seen any connections between Odal and kundalini. However, since there is a clear parallel between the Eb tamga and Odal, there might be a potential relationship.
5. Analysis of the At (𐱃) and İt (𐱅) Tamgas/Runes
This is a pair of tamgas that are harder to analyze. Nevertheless, we have enough data to make some comments about them. We see an example of polar tamgas being opposites in this pair as well. The At rune/tamga (𐱃) directly represents a horse, while the İt rune/tamga (𐱅) directly represents a dog. In Turkish, there is still an idiom that says "At iziyle it izinin karışması" ("the mixing of horse and dog tracks"), which emphasizes that two opposite and should-not-be-mixed things become indistinguishable. In the explanations related to the At rune/tamga (𐱃), I have seen that etymologically it signifies both horse and mountain. For the İt rune/tamga, it is said to indicate both dog and impulse.
Both the horse and the dog/wolf were extremely important animals for the ancient Central Asian and Siberian peoples. Archaeologists have noted that there were even separate graves made for wolves/dogs. It was not uncommon for a horse to be buried with its owner. The important position that dogs and horses held for their owners in everyday life were distinct beyond doubt, as illustrated by the grave example above. If we look at the At tamga (𐱃), we see that it consists of two combined figures. The upper part represents a human, while the lower part represents a horse. This tamga signifies unity. A rider is a person united with their horse. They go to war, travel, and are buried together with their horse.
The dog, however, is separate from its owner. Beyond this, we see a similar relationship in their secondary meanings. Mountains are fixed and associated with stability. Scientifically, they are found in earthquake zones but are in positions where faults balance. In this respect, the At tamga indicates a kind of balance and completion. The fact that hermits seeking unity retreat to the mountains can be related to this. The İt tamga, on the other hand, signifies a voluntary impulse (itki), desire, and transformation.
6. Analysis of the Ak (𐰴) and Ek (𐰚) Tamgas/Runes
The Ak tamga/rune (𐰴) appears in modern Turkish as the verb "akmak" (to flow). Its counterpart, the Ek tamga/rune (𐰚), has a symbol resembling a plant and appears in the verb "ekmek" (to sow). Both tamgas can be directly related to different aspects of fate. While the Ak tamga (𐰴) might describe the flow and events outside of our control, the Ek tamga (𐰚) might indicate elements related to our actions (sowing and reaping).
7. Analysis of the Ik Tamga/Rune (𐰶)
This tamga is one of the non-polar ones, meaning it does not have a pairing tamga. There is no consensus on the meaning it conveys, but some associate it with the verb "kıy" (to cut, to break, to punish). The word "kıymık" (splinter) comes from this root. The shape of the tamga resembles the Thurisaz rune. As you know, Thurisaz is related to thorn, sharpness and penetration. I think it has a similar function.
8. Analysis of the Um Tamga/Rune (𐰢)
Another non-polar tamga. It does not pair with another tamga. It is related to the verb "ummak" (to hope, to expect). Words like "amaç" (purpose), mutluluk (happines) and "umut" (hope) are also explained by this verb. Although the verb "ummak" is not found outside Turkish, words like "amaç" and "umut" exist in Persian. To avoid delving too deep into etymology, I will focus on the meaning of the verb "ummak." I think this tamga is related to "Aum." Especially expressing a hope or desire reminds one of the use of Aum and its derivatives (Om, Amin, Amen) at the end of prayers or when starting something.
9. Analysis of the İç Tamga/Rune (𐰱)
Again, a non-polar tamga. I am sure it will look familiar to everyone, as it looks exactly like the Algiz rune. This tamga, which means the inside of something, indirectly carries a similar meaning to Algiz. According to the Runesecrets website, besides protection, another concept of Algiz is the higher self. If this tamga points to a person's inner self, it probably has similar functions to Algiz.
10. Analysis of the Ant Tamga/Rune (𐰦)
Another non-polar tamga. The Turkish phrasal verb "ant içmek" (to take/drink an oath) and "antlaşma" (agreement) are derived from the root indicated by this tamga. The tamga directly means "oath." For the nomadic peoples of the Central Asian Steppes, an oath was a significant ritual. Wine was poured into an earthen cup, a few drops of blood were added, and it was drunk. The three dots within the tamga represent the blood. This tamga might also signify the gathering and synthesis of energies. One indication of this could be the number of blood drops represented as three. Numerologically, three points to the first combination, the trimurti, and the trinity of worlds. The oath is also associated with blood brotherhood. This ritual, performed by non-relatives, is a good example of unity. Additionally, it must have been a tamga used to seal honor, dignity, and agreements made with words.
11. Analysis of the Az Tamga/Rune (𐰔)
Another non-polar tamga. An interesting aspect of this tamga is its resemblance to the symbol of the Azov/Azak battalion. However, it was taken not from Turkish tamgas but from the German Wolfsangel rune. The Az Tamga (𐰔), also known as the "oz" tamga, has been associated with the swastika by some researchers. Words like "azmak" (to become aroused sexually) or "azıtmak" (to go astray) derive from this. I am skeptical about its association with the swastika and the Sun. The Sun governs Reda (order) and the path. Lastly, the entity named "Azmıç," said to trap and lead people astray, is related to the action indicated by this tamga.
12. Analysis of the Uç Tamga/Rune (𐰲)
This is the last tamga I will examine in this writing. This tamga forms the root of the modern Turkish verb "uçmak" (to fly). Originally, this root signified states like death, dreams, falling, and trance. There are narratives about shamans entering a trance, where their spirit flies to the astral plane in the form of a bird to meet the gods. Additionally, the sensation of falling when entering a trance is an important stage and experience. "Uç" (𐰲) conveys this meaning, and the Turkish word "uçurum" (cliff) also stems from this root. I believe the ancient Turkish concept of the afterlife "uçmag" comes from here and indicates the astral plane. I think it derives from the action indicated by the uç tamga, not from Manichean/Christian terminology. The shape of the tamga itself describes an upward movement.
Apart from the eighteen mentioned above, there are twenty more (𐰀𐰃𐰜𐰸𐰘𐰖𐰾𐰽𐰇𐰆𐰯𐱁𐰭𐰡𐰪𐰤𐰣𐰠𐰞) tamgas/runes. However, I don't plan on writing about them until I have a clear understanding of their meanings. There is also one another point I would like to highlight. There are 38 tamgas/runes in total among the Turks. Of these, twenty-four are polar and form twelve pairs: (𐰸 and 𐰜), (𐰖 and 𐰘), (𐱃 and 𐱅), (𐰽 and 𐰾), (𐰺 and 𐰼), (𐰆 and 𐰇), (𐰣 and 𐰤), (𐰉 and 𐰋), (𐰑 and 𐰓), (𐰍 and 𐰏), (𐰴 and 𐰚), (𐰞 and 𐰠). The numbers twelve and twenty-four are particularly important because there are various narratives among the Turks about the Tree of Life having seven, eight, nine or twelve branches. Here, the highest number being twelve corresponds to the tamga pairs. The Futhark and the Greek alphabet also have twenty-four letters. If I'm not mistaken, both traditions have their own Kabbalah. If these twelve tamga pairs correspond to the branches of the Tree of Life in the narrative, it might be possible that the Turks also had a hidden Kabbalah tradition. In any case, I think it's not a coincidence that the number twenty-four is common in all three traditions.
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