| The third rune of the Elder Futhark is called "Thurisaz". It's sound is "Th". Thurisaz is still part of the Icelandic alphabet. Thurisaz is protective. Shaped like a thorn, it symbolizes the power of resistance characterized by thorn trees, and the massive resistance of the earth-giants known as "thurses" or "moldthurs". Thirns protect the plant on which they grow, but they do this passively, deterring attackers. Similarly, the Thurisaz rune channels defensive powers, and it can produce a sudden change without warning. It is the willful force of the generative principle, the masculine creative energy in action. Used effectively, it can significantly alter the way that things are going. Depending on how it is used, Thurisaz can represent defense against adversaries. Thurisaz's tree's are the blackthorn, the may tree or hawthorn, and the bramble. The Thurisaz rune is still used in England. It appears in the rune's variant shape, "Y", in old inn-signs such as "Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese", off Fleet Street, London. |