Exploring Rune Magick: Thurisaz

The third rune in the first Aett, Thurisaz, the rune of Thor and his mighty hammer, and the rune of Giants. Catalytic in nature, Thurisaz, brings about new beginnings and controls volatile situations. Although protection and defense oriented, casting Thurisaz can also indicate that impulsive action may be a factor in the situation. From Thorsson:

Thurisaz is the directed cosmic force of destruction and defense. It is the archetypal instinctual will, without self-consciousness. The TH-rune is a symbol of lightning and thunder and is equated with Mjöllnir, the hammer of Thórr. (1)

And:

The TH-rune is the container of the life-death polarity. It is the ultimate power to assimilate potential energy of two extremes of kinetic energy into a pattern of action. Thurisaz is a projectable form of applied power. (2)

In rune magick..

Tyriel tells us that Thurisaz is the innovative, problem-solution matrix that is constantly at work within humans (3). Thurisaz can be used in weather magick, protection spells, and spells for awakening and regeneration. It can also be used in love spells. Thurisaz may be drawn or carved and then worn as a symbol or talisman for protection.

However Sweyn Plowright warns:

Modern writers tend to agree on a meaning of focused power. This can be used to break through obstacles. It is also useful in curses. Like the thurses (giants), the force once unleashed may not be easy to control. (4)

Diana Paxson agrees:

THURISAZ is one of the most powerful runes for use in magic, but as Aswynn points out, it must be handled carefully. Like nuclear power, it is a force that can heal or destroy. The rune also acts as a catalytic force when paired with others and can be added to empower a spell.

Drawing THURISAZ on a sharp object such as a fossil tooth or arrowhead (or an actual thorn) enables it to be used as a focus for the evil being drawn out in shamanic extraction magic (curing elf-shot) or to scratch a spell on something, such as someone’s skin or a tree.

One use of this rune and of Thor energy in general is in weatherworking. Drawing it on one’s forehead will increase energy, and intoning it as a mantra will help summon or align one with the forces that bring storms. Be careful, however, to study the normal weather patterns for the area and work to strengthen them, or you may contribute to a dangerous imbalance. (5)

In divination..

In divination, Thurisaz indicates a proper use of force is necessary. A balance must be struck, whether regarding finances, health, or in your relationships. It can also indicate good luck is in store.

Katie Gerrard writes:

Is attack the best form of defence? How much damage do you do to those around you when protecting yourself physically or mentally? Who gets caught in the crossfire? Thurisaz is the sudden argument that comes from feeling vulnerable. Thurisaz is the pub fight caused by jealousy and pride. Thurisaz is the impulsive action that is meant to protect that which you feel needs protecting but ends up jeopardising it instead. (6)

Thurisaz is about mastery of self and the world around us. A delicate balance must be struck between force and nuance, with the ability to see the larger picture as an essential part of that balance. Use the energy of Thurisaz to your advantage or you’ll be experiencing its more volatile aspects.

Next up, Ansuz!

~Blessed be the runes!

 

References:

1. Thorsson, Edred (2012-07-01). Futhark: A Handbook of Rune Magic (Kindle Locations 568-569). Red Wheel Weiser. Kindle Edition.
2. Thorsson, Edred (2012-07-01). Futhark: A Handbook of Rune Magic (Kindle Locations 576-577). Red Wheel Weiser. Kindle Edition
3. Tyriel (2012-11-29). The Book of Rune Secrets (Kindle Location 411). Rune Secrets Media. Kindle Edition.
4. Plowright, Sweyn (2010-11-30). The Rune Primer (Kindle Locations 520-522). Lulu.com. Kindle Edition.
5. Paxson, Diana L. (2005-05-01). Taking Up The Runes: A Complete Guide To Using Runes In Spells, Rituals, Divination, And Magic (p. 52). Red Wheel Weiser. Kindle Edition
6. Gerrard, Katie (2011-12-31). Odin’s Gateways – A practical handbook of Rune Magic & Divination (Kindle Locations 784-786). Avalonia. Kindle Edition.