Keisaz

Keisaz is a name used in certain modern runic systems, most prominently in the Armanen Futharkh developed by Guido von List in the early 20th century. In these traditions, Keisaz denotes the K sound and is associated with fire, light, and ignition. The glyphs and exact placement of Keisaz vary between different Armanen representations, but the association with energy and initiation is a common thread.

Etymologically, Keisaz is a modern designation rather than an ancient, consistently attested term. In mainstream historical runology, the rune most closely linked to the K sound is Kaunan (also called Kenaz in some traditions) from the Elder Futhark, commonly connected with the image of a torch or beacon. Keisaz is thus often described as a contemporary rendition or interpretation of that historical rune, rather than a separate, independently attested form in older inscriptions.

In practice, Keisaz is interpreted as signaling dynamism and initiation. It can indicate the spark that starts a project, the drive to learn, or the practical application of knowledge. Conversely, it may also warn against reckless boldness or the misuses of power if the energy is not channeled constructively.

Historically, Keisaz sits within modern esoteric and nationalist rune systems rather than within the oldest attested runic material. Academic runology treats Keisaz as part of 20th-century reinventions or reinterpretations, while the historical K-rune is generally discussed in the context of Kaunan/Kenaz in the Elder Futhark.