Last Updated on October 21, 2024
Egil (pronounced “EH-geel”) is the brother of Völundr, the legendary smith, and a central figure in the tale of the three brothers. Unlike his famous sibling, Egil is known for his skill as an archer. He plays an important role in the story involving Völundr’s capture and eventual revenge. Egil’s talents with the bow make him stand out in the saga Völundarkviða, marking him as a resourceful and capable character.
In the story of Völundr, Egil assists his brother in a crucial act of revenge against King Níðuðr. After the king captures Völundr and cripples him, Völundr devises a plan for escape and retribution. He requests Egil’s help in shooting a series of arrows into the sky. Völundr crafts wings for himself to fly, and tasks Egil with shooting the birds to help Völundr escape. Egil’s unwavering loyalty to his brother shines through in this moment, as he plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of Völundr’s plan.
Egil’s association with archery ties him to the precision and skill required for his craft. His role in the story may seem secondary to Völundr’s, but without Egil’s assistance, Völundr’s revenge against King Níðuðr might have been impossible. The bond between the two brothers highlights the importance of loyalty and brotherhood in the saga.
Runes Associated with Egil
The Elder Futhark rune Tiwaz resonates with Egil, due to its associations with skill in combat and honor. Tiwaz, symbolizing the warrior’s strength and justice, aligns with Egil’s prowess as an archer and his loyalty to his brother. Another relevant rune is Ansuz, which connects to communication and wisdom, reflecting Egil’s understanding of his role in Völundr’s escape and revenge.
The Importance of Egil in Asatru
In Asatru, Egil’s character embodies the values of loyalty and resourcefulness. His assistance in Völundr’s escape shows the importance of brotherhood and skill. Egil’s dedication to his brother serves as a reminder that loyalty can often be the deciding factor in moments of great peril. His talent with the bow also represents the value of personal mastery, which is highly regarded in Asatru practices. Egil’s story inspires followers to honor familial bonds and cultivate personal skills.
