Baldur: Shining God of Light and Joy in Norse Mythology

Baldur, the shining god of light and joy in Norse mythology, was a beloved figure who brought happiness and prosperity to all who knew him. He was the son of Odin, the All-Father, and Frigg, the goddess of marriage and prophecy. Baldur was born with a beautiful face and radiant hair that shone like gold. He was also known for his kind and gentle nature, and he always sought to bring peace and harmony to the world.

Baldur (Gods and Goddesses of the Ancient World)

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Language	:	English
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Childhood and Youth

Baldur grew up in Asgard, the realm of the gods. He was raised by his parents, Odin and Frigg, and he spent his childhood playing with his friends and siblings. Baldur was especially close to his brother, Thor, the god of thunder, and his sister, Sif, the goddess of fertility.

As Baldur grew older, he became known for his wisdom and intelligence. He was also a skilled fighter, and he often accompanied Thor on his adventures. Baldur was also a talented musician, and he could play the harp and sing beautifully.

The Dream

One night, Baldur had a disturbing dream. He dreamed that he was killed by a mistletoe arrow. When he told his mother about the dream, Frigg was terrified. She went to every creature in the world and made them swear an oath not to harm Baldur. However, she forgot to ask the mistletoe, a small and insignificant plant.

Loki's Trickery

Loki, the trickster god, learned of Frigg's oath and saw an opportunity to cause mischief. He disguised himself as an old woman and went to Asgard. He told the gods that he wanted to test their oaths, and he asked if they would throw things at Baldur. The gods agreed, and they threw rocks, arrows, and spears at Baldur. However, nothing could harm him, thanks to his mother's protective spell.

Loki then turned to the mistletoe, and he asked if it would also swear an oath not to harm Baldur. The mistletoe, being a humble plant, agreed. Loki then plucked a mistletoe arrow and gave it to Hod, the blind god of winter. Hod threw the arrow at Baldur, and it pierced his heart. Baldur fell dead, and the gods were heartbroken.

Death and Resurrection

Baldur's death was a great tragedy for the gods and for all of Asgard. Frigg mourned her beloved son deeply, and she begged Odin to find a way to bring him back. Odin traveled to the underworld and spoke to Hel, the goddess of the dead. Hel agreed to release Baldur if the gods could gather all the tears of the world.

The gods traveled far and wide, collecting tears from every creature they met. They gathered tears of joy, tears of sorrow, and tears of pity. When they finally had enough tears, they returned to the underworld and gave them to Hel. Hel wept tears of joy herself, and she agreed to release Baldur.

Baldur was resurrected and returned to Asgard. He was reunited with his family and friends, and he brought joy and happiness once again. Baldur's death and resurrection is a powerful story about the power of love and sacrifice. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope.

Baldur was a beloved god in Norse mythology, and his story continues to inspire people today. He is a symbol of light, joy, and hope, and he reminds us that even in the face of adversity, we can always find reasons to be happy.

Baldur (Gods and Goddesses of the Ancient World)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20914 KB
Print length	:	32 pages

FREE