The flash of lightning in the dark allows us to suddenly see clearly. Oir stands for this burst of illumination when things become clear. Researchers call this the "A-ha!" moment when a leap in understanding reaches a conclusion that was not foreseen. A more mundane example of this experience is when we are completely lost and then see some familiar landmark. The incorrect orientation we were on disappears and the world (in our perception) spins around into the correct direction and we are back on our route.

The Northern European tree that stands for this ogham is the spindle tree, which does not grow in North America. However, the spindle as a symbol has a meaning that corresponds to the flash of understanding. In the Sleeping Beauty story, the prick of the spindle is the catalyst that catapults her from the unknowing, childhood state. Her next stage would be into adulthood but, unfortunately for her, she is the victim of the evil fairy's curse which complicates her progress.

We are mostly free from curses, but still find ourselves from time to time on the cusp of life stages or decisions, looking ahead into the darkness. Oir is an oracular message that we will be able to see clearly and is also useful in spell working. It is not represented by a spiritual warrior, but stands in a general ideological sense for the triumph of light over darkness, understanding over misinformation.

Paired with Oir is a Norse lightning rune, Sigel, which also stands for victory. This is simply triumph in battle with another lightning rune, Ziu, symbolizing the working out of divine justice. There is no reversal for Sigel, since there is a victor in every contest. There is a warning in the reversal of Oir, however. Since we always see things from our point of view, it is tempting to assume that what we wish for and see as the triumph of right is best for all. Oir reversed warns us against the sense of entitlement that tempts us into making decisions for others based on our desired outcome, or demanding justice when what we are really motivated by is selfishness.

The flash of lightning is the spark of inspiration and the rainbow is the fullness of understanding. You can believe that the universe is slipping into chaos, or that it is gradually circling into balance. When lightning strikes it is not a bolt forcefully shoved into the passive world, but instead the charge of the earth and the charge of the cloud coming into equilibrium.