Ruis is the red branch of passion and closure. It speaks of endings that lead to cleansing, of emotions that must be acknowledged before peace can return. The elder tree, with its dark berries and fragrant flowers, holds both sweetness and poison, mirroring the dual nature of transformation.

In Irish lore, elder was linked to death and renewal. It was said to stand between worlds, offeringThe giving of food protection against malign spirits yet warning against careless use. Its berries made healing tonics, while its wood was considered unwise to burn, lest it anger the spirits within. The color red connects Ruis with blood, life force, and the purifying fire that ends one cycle and begins another.

Ruis teaches that emotion is sacred energy in motion. It invites us to release what has run its course and to honor the full depth of feeling without fear. Through it, we learn that endings are not loss but completion.