Hel

Biography of Hel

In Norse mythology, Hel (also Hella, Helle, Hell, Hela or Hellia) is the goddess of the underworld, Helheim and Niflheim. She is a daughter of Loki and Angrboda and the sister of Fenrir and Jormungand. Odin threw Hel to the underworld and gave her authority over those who died of natural causes.

Origin and family

Hel is one of the children of Loki, the god of crime and confusion, and the jötunn Angrboda. Her brothers are Fenrir, a giant wolf, and Jormungand, a world snake2. Her father Loki is often seen as an antagonist in Norse mythology, which has determined Hel's reputation.

Features and Attributes

Hell is often depicted with a body that is half black and half covered with flesh. Her dwelling place is the Eliudnir Hall, and her servants are Ganglati and Ganglot. In the Edda, Hel is described as the fortune teller who predicts Baldr's death to Odin.

Role and stories

Hell plays an important role in several stories within Norse mythology. A well-known story is her marriage to the giantess Skadi1. Skadi chose Hel as a husband based on his beautiful feet, but their marriage proved difficult due to their different preferences for places to live; Hell loved the underworld, while Skadi preferred the mountains.

Symbolism and Worship

Hell symbolizes death and the underworld. Believers can invoke her for protection in times of death and loss3. Her role in mythology emphasizes her connection to death and the natural cycle of life and death.

Relationship with the Aesir

After the war between the Aesir and the Vanir, Hel was banished to the underworld by Odin. She was given authority over those who had died of natural causes, while the Valkyries brought the souls of brave warriors to Valhalla1.

Hel's story offers valuable life lessons about life, death, and the natural cycle of existence.

Hel, the goddess of the underworld in Norse mythology, can have deep spiritual meaning for believers. Here are some ways it may be of interest:

1. Comfort in Grief: Hell can be seen as a comforter for those who are grieving the loss of loved ones. Believers can seek her help and guidance in times of grief and loss.

2. Acceptance of the Natural Cycle: Hell embodies the inevitability of death and the natural cycle of life. Believers can call on her to help them accept and embrace this reality.

3. Wisdom and Insight: Hell is sometimes associated with wisdom and insight into the mysteries of life and death. Believers can seek her influence to find deeper understanding and enlightenment in existential questions.

4. Protection: As ruler of the underworld, Hell offers protection to the souls of those who have died of natural causes. Believers can invoke her for protection against evil and negative influences.

5. Remembrance and Tribute: Hell can serve as a symbol of remembrance and tribute to ancestors and loved ones who have passed away. Believers can perform rituals and offerings to ask for her favor and honor their ancestors.

Hel's role and stories provide valuable insights and spiritual guidance for believers seeking comfort, wisdom, and protection in their lives.

For believers, Hell can help them find comfort, wisdom, and protection in their lives. Choose a spiritual item, such as a piece of jewelry or an amulet, dedicated to Hell to welcome her presence and blessings into your life.

HEL