Eihwaz is the rune of many meanings that at first seem to mirror those of other runes. It is a rune of protection but unlike Algiz this protection signifies spiritual protection and is said to have power over the dead. It is interesting note that this rune reversed means "death" so logically speaking this rune could represent life in its correct position. It is also a rune of transformation, but unlike Hagalaz, this is the transformation of life and so though it may be dramatic, it is also gradual, and more equated to growth than destruction. This rune is often confused with Yr, which is actually a completely different rune that appears in all three poems.