Last Updated on October 7, 2024
Hreiðmarr, sometimes spelled Hreidmar or Hreidmarr, was a powerful and cunning figure. As the ruler of a great house and the father of Fafnir, Regin, and Ótr, his influence extended far. His wealth and cunning earned him respect and fear. Hreiðmarr’s story revolves around the cursed gold of the dwarf Andvari, which would ultimately bring ruin to his family.
Ótr, one of Hreiðmarr’s sons, shapeshifted into an otter to fish by the river. One day, Loki, along with Odin and Hoenir, killed Ótr, mistaking him for an ordinary animal. The gods soon realized their mistake and were brought to Hreiðmarr’s hall, where they had to answer for the death. Hreiðmarr demanded that the gods fill Ótr’s skin with gold and cover it completely. To meet this demand, Loki captured the dwarf Andvari and took his hoard of gold. Andvari cursed the treasure, stating that it would bring misfortune to anyone who possessed it. Hreiðmarr accepted the ransom, ignoring the curse, and in doing so, sealed his family’s fate.
The cursed gold sparked a tragic cycle of betrayal and death. Fafnir, Hreiðmarr’s eldest son, grew greedy. He murdered his father to claim the treasure for himself, leaving a legacy of blood and gold. Fafnir’s transformation into a dragon further symbolizes the destructive power of greed. The cycle of vengeance and greed began with Hreiðmarr’s acceptance of the gold, making him a key figure in this saga.
Hreiðmarr’s Importance in Asatru
Hreiðmarr represents the consequences of unchecked greed, a recurring theme in Asatru. His decision to take the cursed gold, despite knowing its potential danger, mirrors the lessons that Asatru followers reflect upon today. The story of Hreiðmarr warns of the destructive nature of greed and its capacity to tear families apart. In the tales of Hreiðmarr and his sons, adherents find lessons about loyalty, power, and the inevitable consequences of dishonoring kin.
His tale also reminds Asatru followers of wyrd, the idea of fate intertwined with personal choices. Hreiðmarr’s actions set off a chain of events that culminated in the downfall of his family, showing how decisions shape future outcomes. The concept of wyrd plays a vital role in understanding the deeper significance of Hreiðmarr’s story.
Though not directly linked to a specific Elder Futhark rune, the wealth associated with Hreiðmarr and his gold might connect to the Fehu rune. Fehu represents wealth and prosperity but also warns of its potential for destruction. It embodies Hreiðmarr’s rise and fall, teaching that true wealth lies in balance and wisdom, not in hoarding gold.
