Freya's Aett · Rune 3
Thurisaz
“Giant, Thorn” · sound: Th
Keywords
thorn · giant · reactive force · defense · conflict · protection · boundary
What Thurisaz means
Thurisaz is the rune of the thorn and the thurse (giant), representing both danger and protection. It is associated with Thor's hammer Mjolnir and the reactive forces of chaos that test the boundaries of order. In Heathen practice, Thurisaz serves as a gateway rune, a threshold that must be approached with caution and consciousness. It warns against rash action while also empowering defensive strength. The thorn protects the rose; the giant challenges the gods to grow stronger. This rune counsels contemplation before action.
Thurisaz in the historical rune poems
Three medieval poems preserve the meanings of the runes — the oldest testimony we have.
The thorn is exceedingly sharp, an evil thing for any knight to touch, uncommonly severe on all who sit among them.
Giant causes anguish to women; misfortune makes few men cheerful.
Giant is torment of women, and cliff-dweller, and husband of a giantess.
Correspondences
Deities
Thor
Element
fire
Color
bright red