Last Updated on November 24, 2024
Skeggöld (pronounced SKEG-gold, with “skegg” meaning beard and “öld” meaning age or time) stands out as a Valkyrie embodying battle and strife. Her name translates to “Age of Axes” or “Time of Battle,” symbolizing the chaos and intensity of war. Skeggöld appears in the Völuspá, part of the Poetic Edda, where her name is listed among other Valkyries who serve Odin on the battlefield. Her presence signals the inevitable onset of conflict and the eternal cycle of struggle.
As a Valkyrie, Skeggöld represents the raw, untamed spirit of combat. Warriors revered her as a divine figure overseeing the clashing of steel and the whistling of arrows. She embodies the essence of the battlefield, where life and death intersect. Skeggöld’s fierce image often associates her with a readiness to face challenges head-on, no matter how daunting.
Though little direct narrative about Skeggöld survives, her name alone evokes vivid imagery of an age defined by courage and destruction. Her association with axes ties her to tools of both survival and war, reflecting dual themes of creation and destruction. For those who sought her favor, Skeggöld offered the promise of valor in battle and a place in Odin’s hall of the honored dead.
Runes Associated with Skeggöld
The Elder Futhark rune Tiwaz (ᛏ) connects to Skeggöld through its ties to courage and warfare. Ūruz (ᚢ), symbolizing raw strength and endurance, aligns with her fierce presence on the battlefield. Together, these runes invoke her qualities of bravery and resilience. Warriors may have carved these runes to seek her favor in combat or to channel her indomitable spirit.
Importance in Asatru
In Asatru, Skeggöld inspires the community to embrace the challenges of life with courage and strength. She reminds followers of the balance between creation and destruction, encouraging growth through adversity. Her fierce determination serves as a guide for those striving to face life’s struggles with honor and resolve. Skeggöld’s enduring legacy inspires a bold and fearless approach to personal battles.
