Skaði - Goddess of Norse Mythology

An imposing figure of Skaði, .
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Skaði, , depicted as an imposing figure.

Skaði (pronounced: "SKAH-thee") also known as Skade, is a goddess in Norse mythology who was associated with hunting and winter.

The name "Skaði" in Old Norse runes is written as:

ᛋᚴᚨᚦᛁ

She was the daughter of the giant Þjazi, who was killed by the Æsir. Seeking revenge, Skaði went to Asgard and demanded that her father's death be atoned for.

Odin offered to make her father's eyes like stars and to marry a god, with the condition that she choose her husband based solely on his feet. Skaði expected to choose Baldr, but instead chose Njörðr, a god of the sea. Their marriage was unsuccessful, as Skaði loved the mountains while Njörðr loved the sea. They eventually agreed to spend nine nights in each other's home, but this solution proved to be unsuccessful as well.

Skaði later fastened a poisonous snake over Loki's head, as he had insulted her in vile diatribes. Some mythologists believe that in early Norse mythology, Skaði was revered as a goddess of the hunt and was a rival to the goddesses Frigg and Freyja in terms of importance and popularity. However, her importance diminished over time, and little remained of her in the popular tradition.

The name Skaði may be at the origin of the name Scandinavia, as it could mean "island of Skadi" or "territory protected by Skadi." It is also interesting to note that the name of Skaði appears in the oldest places in Scandinavia.

In conclusion, Skaði was a powerful and important goddess in Norse mythology who was associated with hunting and winter. Although her importance waned over time, she remains an intriguing and fascinating figure in Norse mythology and Scandinavian folklore.


Please note that the information provided about Skaði and Norse mythology is complex and may be subject to interpretation and debate. The myths and stories of Norse mythology have evolved and been passed down through oral tradition and written accounts, and there may be variations in the way they are told and understood. This information should be used as a general reference and not as a definitive source on the subject.


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