þriðjuna

þriðjuna, also known as the "Third Day," refers to a significant concept in Old Norse and Viking Age mythology, particularly within the context of Norse cosmology and the events leading up to Ragnarök, the apocalyptic battle that would destroy the world. The term derives from Old Norse, where "þriðja" means "third," and "dagr" means "day," though it is often interpreted more broadly as the "third day" of a particular cycle or sequence.

In Norse tradition, þriðjuna is associated with the third day of the week, which was believed to be ruled by the god Odin. This day was considered particularly propitious for certain activities, such as divination or seeking omens, due to Odin’s association with wisdom, magic, and the afterlife. The day was also linked to the concept of fate and destiny, as Odin was the god of fate and the ruler of the slain in Valhalla.

The term also appears in the context of the *Þrymskviða*, an Old Norse poem from the *Poetic Edda*, where it refers to the third day of Thor’s quest to reclaim his hammer, Mjölnir, from the giant Þrym. This narrative highlights the importance of timing and divine intervention in Norse mythology, as Thor’s success depends on his ability to act decisively on the third day.

Beyond its mythological significance, þriðjuna reflects broader cultural and calendrical practices among the Norse people, where days of the week were often named after gods and associated with specific activities or beliefs. The concept underscores the interplay between mythology, daily life, and the natural world in Viking Age society.