Einherjar facts for kids
The einherjar were brave warriors from Norse mythology. They were special because they died fighting heroically in battle. After their death, magical maidens called valkyries would choose them. The valkyries would then bring these chosen warriors to a grand hall called Valhalla.
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Who Were the Einherjar?
The word "einherjar" means "lone-fighters" or "those who fight alone." In Norse myths, these warriors were picked by the god Odin himself. They were chosen to live in Valhalla, a magnificent hall in Asgard, the home of the gods. Only the bravest and most skilled warriors who died in battle could become einherjar.
Life in Valhalla
Life in Valhalla was like a never-ending feast and training camp. The einherjar spent their days preparing for a huge future event.
Daily Feasts
Every day, the einherjar enjoyed amazing food and drink.
- They ate delicious meat from a special boar named Sæhrímnir. This boar was magical because it came back to life every night after being cooked.
- They drank mead, a sweet drink like honey wine. This mead was provided by a goat named Heiðrún. She stood on the roof of Valhalla and produced the mead from her udders.
Training for Battle
After their feast, the einherjar would get ready for battle. They would put on their armor and grab their weapons. Then, they would go out into a huge field. There, they would fight each other in fierce, friendly battles. Even if they were badly hurt or died during these fights, they would be healed and brought back to life by evening. This daily training was very important.
Preparing for Ragnarök
The main reason the einherjar trained so hard was to prepare for Ragnarök. Ragnarök is a major event in Norse mythology. It is described as the "end of the world" or the "twilight of the gods." During Ragnarök, a huge battle will take place between the gods and giants. The einherjar are meant to fight alongside Odin and the other gods in this final battle. Their constant training made sure they were always ready for this important moment.
Where Do We Learn About Them?
We learn about the einherjar from old Norse writings.
- One of the main sources is the Prose Edda. This book was written by a famous Icelandic historian named Snorri Sturluson in the 13th century.
- Another source is a poem called Hákonarmál. This poem was written by a poet named Eyvindr skáldaspillir. It also tells us about the brave warriors chosen for Valhalla.
Images for kids
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"Valkyrie" (1834–1835) by Herman Wilhelm Bissen
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The 8th-century Tängelgårda stone depicts a figure leading a troop of warriors all bearing rings. Valknut symbols appear beneath his horse.
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See also
In Spanish: Einherjer para niños
