well-preserved 7th-century monument in Blekinge, Swed. More than 12 ft (3 ¹/₂ m) high, it bears a runic inscription, the exact interpretation of which has been much debated. The inscription is magical in nature and is obviously intended to protect a grave. One possible interpretation is: “I have here the secret meaning of powerful runes. He who destroys the monument will forever be tormented by evil witchcraft. He shall die a treacherous death. I prophesy ruin.”