Perkūnas stands as one of the most powerful and revered deities in the Baltic pantheon, central to Lithuanian pagan traditions dating back to the pre-Christian era. This thunder god plays a multifaceted role as nature's protector, fertility bringer, and justice enforcer, embodying the dynamic and often unpredictable power of atmospheric phenomena.

Deeply connected to seasonal cycles, Perkūnas is renowned for his thunderbolts, which are said to fertilise the earth goddess Žemyna during spring's first storm, awakening nature from winter dormancy and initiating the annual cycle of growth and renewal. This connection between celestial and terrestrial fertility reflects the agricultural foundations of Baltic spiritual traditions.

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

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.

The enduring significance of Perkūnas in Lithuanian folklore illustrates how mythological figures can embody both natural forces and moral principles, providing frameworks for understanding both the physical world and ethical behaviour.