Perkūnas is one of the most powerful and revered deities in the Baltic pantheon, central to Lithuanian pagan traditions.

Known as the god of thunder and storms, Perkūnas plays a vital role as a protector of nature, a bringer of fertility, and an enforcer of justice. He is deeply connected to seasonal cycles, symbolised by his thunderbolts, which are said to fertilise the earth goddess Žemyna during the first storm of spring, awakening nature and ushering in renewal.

Perkūnas is often depicted wielding weapons like a "god's whip" (lightning) or stone axes, which he uses to punish wrongdoing and maintain cosmic order. His role as a just and impatient guardian of morality is exemplified in his rivalry with Velnias, a deity associated with chaos and the underworld. This duality underscores the balance of light and darkness in Baltic mythology.

Rituals honouring Perkūnas included sacrifices, prayers for favourable weather, and offerings of grain or livestock. People sought his protection during storms by adorning homes with sacred tree branches or ringing bells to repel evil spirits. Thunder was interpreted as Perkūnas' voice, through which he communicated with priests, who would lead communities in sacrifices and celebrations to appease him and secure his blessings.

The enduring image of Perkūnas highlights his profound influence on Lithuanian folklore, blending elements of nature worship and morality.

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