The thurisaz (thur-ee-sahz) rune is the third in the elder futhark runic alphabet, and the third in the first aett family runes. Thurs is a term that is used to describe a supernatural being. This could be referring to the Jotnar, which is the term for giants. Thurisaz is considered one of the powerful runes with a high energy. This may cause you to act impulsively which could cause future troubles if you are not careful.
Thurisaz Rune Meaning
Thurisaz meanings are mainly based around thurs, thorn, and Thor. The thurisaz rune itself looks like a sharp thorn. Thorns are a plants way of defending itself and causing harm to those who are not careful. When dealing with the thorn rune, it is important to be patient and really think through your next steps. You do not want to feel the sting that this rune may hold.
Thorns hold physical and magical protection properties, making this rune great in protection magic and other types of defense magic.
Thor, Norse Rune: Thurisaz
One of the most known meanings for this rune is its association with the Norse God Thor. Thor is the God of thunder, lightning and agriculture. The thurisaz rune symbolizes thunder and lightning which corresponds to Thor’s hammer Mjöllnir. This is the weapon that was used to defend and protect Asgard and Midgard. Thor was set to slay the Jotnar in order to defend Asgard and Midgard. Although he didn’t kill all of the giants, he did kill enough to allow man to live.
Many look to Thor for protection from storms and disease. Farmers did and still look to Thor as their favorite deity.
Using the Thurisaz Rune
The thurisaz rune symbolizes defense, protection, strength, action, power, warning, regeneration, and fertilization.
When working with the thurisaz, its main focus is for you to look inward and focus on your inner forces. Focusing on what steps to take next and what the possible consequences may occur. Taking action can push you forward, but if you’re not careful you could leave destruction in your wake.
If looking to use this rune in your magical workings, you can use it for the following:
- Defense magic
- Protection magic
- Curses/ hexes
- Shadow work
- Wards
Rune Casting
Just like in tarot, when you cast your runes upon a surface, how they land is how you read them. There is an upright and a reverse. Upright meaning the symbol is facing the right direction. When its reversed, this means that the symbol is in an upside-down direction.
What do these rune positions mean?
Upright
New beginnings, defense of possessions, take action, overcome obstacles, strength
When thurisaz shows up in your reading, it is time to take action on those things that you wish to accomplish but may have lacked the self-confidence before. This could also be a chance to embrace any upcoming changes.
Reverse
Non-action, take a pause, internal workings
If the thurisaz rune shows up in reverse, it is time to pause and really think carefully about what you do next. Making any rash and hasty decisions could cause yourself future regret. Pulling this rune could also mean that you are experiencing some mental blockages.
First Aett Family
Wish to learn more about the other runes in the first aett, check out these links below:
Sources
Taking Up the Runes by: Diana L. Paxson
Norse Magic & Runes by: Frederick Strom
Futhark: A Handbook of Rune Magic by: Edred Thorsson
The Book of Runes by: Ralph H. Blum