Thurisaz

Thorn, Giant

Disruptive forces, chaos, self-empowerment, constructive conflict, enthusiasm, aggressive male sexuality, destruction by natural forces, the thorn of awakening

Thurisaz ("Thor-is-as") (or Thursa) is the directed cosmic force of destruction and defense. It is the archetypal instinctual will, without self-consciousness.

Thurisaz is the symbol of lightning and thunder and is equated with Mjölnir, the hammer of Thor, a force of good and defense. In the Scandinavian tradition, the Thurs were ice giants, primordial beings with tremendous power, which lived in the frozen lands. They bore an evil son named Loki whose sole mission in life was to torment mankind. Thurisaz is the symbol of their destructive force, brutal power, and reactive violence.

While the thorn is often seen as a source of pain, it can (as with the thorn of the rose) also be a source of profound beauty. Contained in this rune is much of the old Norse view of winter and the elements: Beauty and danger combined in physical form. A time of trials.

Thurisaz is also a rune of regeneration and fertilization. It breaks down barriers and fecundates so that new beginnings may be made.

Thurisaz signifies quarrels, hostile environments and situations, and unfavorable changes. An indication for a fight for survival.

A great risk that can either lead to substantial gain or ruin. This rune warns for patience, reasoning and attention.

A dynamic relationship, with sparring partners.

Vital force, explosive strength, intense activity and energy with underlying exhaustion that will occur.

Thurisaz represents harsh outside forces which stand in opposition, particularly natural forces or forces on a larger scale. Thurisaz also signifies discipline and the necessity of change: things that are happening are meant to happen. They are part of the grand cycle of life and nature.

You too can draw on the strength of higher powers to assist you. You have the inner power to face any challenge and you have the authority to claim your destiny and control your life.

Thurisaz is the sacrifice that one must make in order to make progress in life. This rune references the pain that must be endured for the reward that lies at its end. A painful lesson learned.

Disaster, lost battles, breakups, exhaustion, betrayals, hidden evil

While in upright position Thurisaz represents anger channeled in a positive way, obstacles that you have the power to overcome, in reverse position, it is your lack of will and strength that is an obstacle.

Being too resistant to change and not dealing with adversity will create more conflict. Look at the long term advantages of a situation and take care to understand the hardships that you are dealing with. Don't ignore them as they may become larger problems later.

Reversed Thurisaz shows frustrations, guilt, remorse, but also accusations, reproaches and threats. It is the indicator of revenge and hate between two former partners.

An activity sustained in an unhealthy manner can lead to major disorders at a physical and hormonal level, as well as mentally and energetically. The thorn may in some cases indicate matters of sexual or fertility health issues.