Last Updated on February 23, 2025
History and Symbology
Hlaðguðr svanhvít (pronounced HLAHDH-guh-thur SWAN-hveet) appears as a Valkyrie with a deep connection to swans and mystical transformations. Her name means “Swan-White,” with “hlaðguðr” potentially translating to “clad in heather,” describing her elegance and ethereal grace. Other spellings of her name include Hladguth and svanhvít, especially in Icelandic texts. She is a sister to other notable swan maidens like Hervör alvitr. As a central character in the Völundarkviða, a poem in the Poetic Edda, Hlaðguðr’s story unfolds alongside her sisters, each of whom embodies an ethereal and protective nature.
In the Völundarkviða, Hlaðguðr and her sisters transform from swans into maidens, choosing mortal men as lovers. However, they remain otherworldly, bound by a higher duty to serve as Valkyries. Hlaðguðr and her sisters eventually return to their swan forms, departing from their mortal lovers and reinforcing their ties to the supernatural. Her dual nature as both swan and warrior signifies balance between tranquility and fierce loyalty. The swan symbolizes peace and beauty, while her Valkyrie nature speaks of strength and courage.
Hlaðguðr embodies a gentle strength and a profound connection to the mysteries of life and transformation. Her presence brings beauty and calm, yet she remains a fierce warrior in spirit. Her story speaks to the power of transformation and resilience, as she shifts between the peaceful swan and her Valkyrie role. Hlaðguðr inspires both gentleness and unyielding resolve, connecting beauty with the power to protect.
Runes Associated with Hlaðguðr svanhvít
Algiz (ᛉ) (“AHL-geez“) means “protection” and represents the guardian’s role. Valkyries, including Hlaðguðr svanhvít, serve as shields between life and death. This rune symbolizes divine defense and sacred power. In battle, warriors called on Algiz for safety. It also connects to higher wisdom and communication with the gods. Hlaðguðr svanhvít, like other Valkyries, guided chosen warriors to their fate.
In divination, Algiz signals protection, awareness, or a guiding presence. It warns against recklessness and urges caution.
Eihwaz (ᛇ) (“AY-wahz”) represents transformation and the journey between realms. The Valkyries move between life and death, guiding fallen warriors. This Elder Futhark rune symbolizes strength in transition. Eihwaz connects to Yggdrasil, the World Tree. It reflects endurance and the ability to navigate hardships. Hlaðguðr svanhvít, as a chooser of the slain, embodies this path between worlds. 
Her Importance in Asatru
Hlaðguðr svanhvít represents inner balance, gentleness, and resilience. In Asatru, she teaches the importance of embracing one’s full nature. Honoring Hlaðguðr brings peace, beauty, and strength, especially in times of change. She encourages followers to move through life with adaptability, blending gentleness with unbreakable will. Through her, Asatruar celebrate the power of transformation and the strength that lies within grace.
