Last Updated on October 10, 2024
Völuspá is the opening poem of the Poetic Edda and one of the most significant pieces of Old Norse literature. The title means “The Prophecy of the Seeress” or “The Prophecy of the Völva”. It is a profound narrative recounting the creation of the world, lives of the gods, and the apocalyptic events of Ragnarök. It’s told from the perspective of a völva, a seeress, who speaks to Odin, revealing past, present, and future events.
The origins of Völuspá have roots in the oral traditions of the Viking Age. The poem likely existed in verbal form long before it was transcribed in the 13th century when Old Norse culture was transitioning under Christian influence. However, the poem reflects a worldview that predates this shift, preserving a rich narrative that captures the essence of Norse cosmology and eschatology.
The poem opens with a call for silence and the völva’s invocation of Odin, whom she addresses directly. She recounts the creation of the world from Ginnungagap, the rise of the gods, and significant mythological events. The second half of the poem shifts to darker themes, foretelling the coming of Ragnarök, the death of gods, and the rebirth of the world. Völuspá encapsulates the Norse cycle of life, death, and renewal.
The Rune Associated with Völuspá
The Elder Futhark rune Perthro associates closely with the themes of Völuspá. Perthro is the rune of fate, mystery, and hidden knowledge. It symbolizes the unknown forces at work in the universe, including destiny and prophecy. This ties directly to the role of the völva. She serves as a prophetic figure revealing the mysteries of the cosmos to Odin.
In shape, Perthro resembles a lot cup, symbols of chance and the unknown. Like the völva’s revelations in Völuspá, Perthro represents the unfolding of fate and the inevitable march toward Ragnarök. It highlights the theme that, despite knowledge of the future, certain events remain beyond mortal control.
