Hlidskialf
Hliðskialf ( Old Norse Hliðskjálf "shelf of compassion"), also Lidskialf or Lidskjälf , is the throne of the main god Odin or the place where he is located in Norse mythology . It stands in the gods' palace Valaskjalf in Asgard , which in some representations is equated with Odin's great hall Valhalla .
From his throne Odin can overlook all nine worlds of the Germanic worldview , which is interpreted as the ability to see everything and to be able to hear (hear) everything. The idea of omniscience for the supreme deity is not uncommon in mythology. It is noteworthy, however, that this divine ability is intended to be strictly bound by location. Since Odin does not seek Loki from his throne, but does discover it, this gift also appears to be applicable to other deities. It is rarely reported, for example in the Grimnismál , that the goddess Frigg sits next to Odin. Also Freyr climbs in skírnismál shortly the throne.
“[...] there is also a large hall called Walaskialf: that is Odin's hall. [...] In this room is the high seat called Hlidskialf, and when Allfather [that is Odin] sits on this high seat, he overlooks the whole world. "
Individual evidence
- ↑ Compare Jacob Grimm : Deutsche Mythologie. Volume 1, p. 112 ff.