Last Updated on December 13, 2024
Sköll (pronounced “Skohl,” with a long “o”) and Hati (pronounced “Hah-tee”) are legendary wolves from Norse mythology 
. They are siblings, born of the giantess Angrboða (pronounced “Angr-botha”) and the mighty wolf Fenrir (pronounced “Fen-reer”). Sköll’s name means “Treachery” or “Mockery,” while Hati’s name translates to “Hate” or “He Who Hates.” Together, they play a vital role in the cosmological narrative of the Vikings.
According to myth, Sköll chases the sun, Sól (pronounced “Sohl”), across the sky each day. Meanwhile, Hati pursues the moon, Máni (pronounced “Mah-nee”). The endless pursuit creates the cycle of day and night. During Ragnarök (pronounced “Rag-nah-rohk”), the foretold apocalypse of Norse lore, Sköll and Hati are destined to catch and devour their celestial prey. This act marks the end of the world and the beginning of a new one.
These wolves are fearsome and relentless. Their chase symbolizes the inevitable passage of time and the cyclic nature of destruction and renewal. In various ancient depictions, Sköll is described as following closely behind the bright chariot of the sun, while Hati looms in the shadows, nipping at the heels of the moon.
While Sköll and Hati are fearsome figures, they also embody persistence and inevitability. Their story reflects the Norse worldview, which accepted the harsh realities of life while holding hope for renewal. Some poetic sources also link them to the wildness of nature, reminding humanity of the uncontrollable forces surrounding them.
Elder Futhark Runes Associated with Sköll and Hati
The rune Thurisaz (pronounced “Thoor-ee-sahz”) embodies the destructive and chaotic energies of Sköll and Hati. Thurisaz represents giants, aggression, and powerful forces that bring change. Its thorn-like shape resembles sharp fangs, evoking the ferocity of these wolves.
The rune Jēra (pronounced “Yair-ah”) symbolizes cycles and the passage of time, aligning with the eternal chase of Sköll and Hati. Jēra depicts the natural progression of events, from sowing seeds to harvest, and mirrors their role in cosmic balance. These runes reflect their mythic significance in Norse cosmology.
Importance to Asatruar
To modern Asatruar, Sköll and Hati represent themes of balance, perseverance, and cosmic inevitability. Their relentless chase across the skies serves as a reminder of time’s unyielding march and life’s transient nature.
The wolves’ role in Ragnarök holds deep symbolic meaning for those embracing Asatru. They embody the cycles of destruction and renewal, a core concept in Norse beliefs. By studying Sköll and Hati, Asatruar connect with ancient wisdom about existence and nature’s wild forces.
