Nothern Lights: Odin

Odin can be easily identified by one of his two main personas. The first and foremost is that of Odin, the htAllfather. It is is his breath that brings us into the world, and when we die we are returned to him through his indrawn breath. Odin as Allfather is the God of family and community, where guidance and wisdom are most valued. Odin was one of the very first Gods. It was he, along with two others, who slew the giant Ymir and turned his body into the world.

The other most known side of Odin is that of the Wanderer. He was known to disguise himself quite often and travel the nine worlds in an endless search for knowledge. He often travelled alone or in the company of two ravens. His search was so much a part of him that he would subject himself to anything to gain another piece of wisdom.

Odin once travelled to Mimir’s Well in order to drink of the magic water contained in its depths. The giant guarding the Well told Odin he could drink the Water of Knowledge for a price. Odin was required to sacrifice his right eye, which he removed himself and placed in the well. This is why Odin is one-eyed.

In another quest for knowledge Odin crucified himself, after causing wounds on his body with his own spear, on the Tree of Life, Yggdrasil. He remained thus for nine days and nine nights. On the ninth night, Odin saw something shining in the depths of the chasm gaping before him. He reached deep down and grabbed that which he sought. It was on this night that the Runes flooded into Odin’s consciousness.

It is because of Odin’s driven, almost compulsive need for wisdom and knowledge that some believed Odin may once have been a mortal man. A man who seeked to attain God-hood through knowledge and wisdom and ultimately attained it.

There are several other, less-known sides to Odin as well. One is his ability to reach into the deepest places within your heart. He will bring out unknown or undeveloped talents, but he will also open any barriers or doors you’ve built up. The search for truth begins within your own self and Odin will give you the strength to look even in the darkest regions of your heart.

Another of Odin’s personalities is always present in the Eddas, but seems to be less revered. Odin loves women. All women. Any shape, size, or creed. He especially loves and respects women who love him in return. Through many stories in the Eddas you will find him boasting of his sexual exploits. This is not a dark or perverted thing, but rather an affirmation of life and love from the one who breathes life into us all.

It is also thought by some that Odin had great powers of healing. At three points in the Eddas there are allusions to his having healed men and beasts. Once was a horse which several other Gods and Goddesses tried to heal, but ultimately it was Odin who fixed the broken bone. The flesh healed, the bone mended and regrew itself, and the horse was completely healed.

There is is a darker side to Odin though, as indeed there are with most Gods and Goddesses in the north. He is implacable, fierce in battle, and extremely cunning. He has the ability to command the dead to do his bidding. Half of those slain in battle await in his hall to fight for him in the final battle, Ragnarok. He is known by many names like Valgautr (Slaughter God) and Viourr (Killer). In fact his primary name, Woden (Odin) means fury.

Out of the over 150 names that Odin is known by, however, most refer to his wisdom and caring. At the center of all the Gods, though not above, Odin is sought out for help by men and Gods alike.

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An Introduction to Northern Religions