In ancient pagan beliefs, there was a mighty tree that was the axis of the universe. Its roots reached into the unexplored recesses of the depths, and its branches stretched high into the sky. Among them lived extraordinary beings who played their part in the cosmic harmony. What did this tree look like, what was its significance and why does it still inspire fascination today? Discover its secrets in this article.
What is the Yggdrasil Tree of Life?
In Norse mythology, the World Tree was a giant ash tree that was the center of the universe. Its mighty branches and the tree’s crown connected all worlds – both those inhabited by deities and humans. It was believed that the entire universe rested on it, and its presence ensured the balance between the forces of nature, good and evil. According to prophecy, this tree is to be destroyed during Ragnarok, which will end the existence of the world as we know it.
The Appearance and Structure of the Yggdrasil Tree
Modern imagery depicts Yggradsil as a mighty ash tree, which is the basis for the existence of all worlds. The tree was considered sacred, and the extraordinary magical properties attributed to it gave it an aura of mystery. The poem Grimnismal describes its structure – it has three roots extending in different directions. Each of them leads to a different place: one to the land of the dead, the second to the abode of the Jotuns, and the third to the world of humans.
Each root draws water from a different source. The texts mention Hvergelmir, the source from which all waters flow, forming numerous rivers. Under the root leading to Jotunheim is the study of Mimisbrunnr, considered a source of almost unlimited knowledge and wisdom. The guardian of the well is Mimir, whose fate is permanently linked to Odin. The third root reaches up to the sky, and under the root is the Well of Urdarbrunnr. The last of the above-mentioned wells holds unique significance for the entire Norse mythology. It is home to the Norns, ladies of fate and destiny. They are mysterious beings over whom not even the Aesir have power. The Norns take care of Yggdrasil every day, feeding its roots with water from the wells of Urdarbrunnr. This topic is so elaborate and interesting that it will certainly find its place in a separate article.
At the foot of the roots there are countless snakes along with the dragon Nidhogg, which constantly destroys the tree. The drops falling from the boughs of Yggdrasil were thought by people to be honeydew, which was fed on by bees. Over the centuries, many attempts have been made to visualize the World Tree. However, none of the visualizations can be considered completely correct, as even the oldest sources describe the appearance of Yggdrasil in different ways. What is known, however, is that it provided harmony in the universe and was home to the beings that will be discussed later in this article.
How many worlds are there on the Yggdrasil Tree?
Yggdrasil supports all nine worlds described in Norse mythology. There are nine lands on the World Tree: Asgard, Midgard, Vanaheim, Jotunheim, Alfheim, Svartalfheim, Niflheim, Muspelheim and Helheim. If you want to learn more about the worlds and creatures found in Viking beliefs, read our article “Norse Mythology in a Nutshell“.
Who lives on Yggdrasil?
The World Tree was home to many magical beings, each with their own unique characteristics and roles. Among them were creatures that worked to benefit the harmony of the universe, as well as those that sought to destabilize it. Their presence symbolized the eternal struggle between opposing forces – good and evil, order and chaos, which constantly clashed on the vast branches and roots of the Elder Tree.
Nidhogg – the dragon gnawing at the roots of the Yggdrasil tree
Nidhogg is a dragon that poses one of the greatest threats to Yggdrasil, constantly attacking its roots in order to do as much damage as possible. Although the name Nidhogg has no clear translation, it is often interpreted as “chopper” or “biting.” The appearance of this dragon is a symbol of the coming Ragnarok, and its destructive activity is intended to upset the balance of all worlds. From the name of the creature in Viking society arose the term Níð, meaning loss of honor.
The Nameless Eagle and the Vedrfolnir Hawk
The Nameless Eagle lives in the crown of Yggdrasil, and the hawk Vedrfolnir sits atop its head. Their meaning and purpose for existence are not clear. Some scholars suggest that the hawk may be associated with the wisdom of the eagle and play a role similar to Odin’s ravens, which roam the world, capturing and bringing knowledge. According to the Poetic Edda, the Nameless Eagle is related to and communicates with Nidhogg.
Ratatosk – a squirrel running around the Yggdrasil tree
The Ratatosk squirrel moves throughout Yggdrasil. His job is to relay information between the Nameless Eagle and the dragon Nidhogg. According to sources, the messages are extremely malicious, indicating a conflict between the creatures.
The Four Deer of Yggdrasil Ash
The deer live among the tree’s branches, where they chew on its leaves. According to the “Poetic Edda”, the animals stretch their necks to reach the branches, and the morning dew collects in their horns, forming the rivers of the world. Their names are Dainn, Dvalinn, Duneyrr and Durabror. Early interpretations linked them to the four elements, the seasons and the phases of the moon. Later, deer began to be associated with the wind. Dainn and Dvalinn symbolize calm winds, and Duneyrr and Durabrór the stronger ones. The biting of branches by deer was interpreted as the wind blowing away the clouds.
Heidrun goat
The udders of the goat yield milk that never runs out. This is used to produce honey, which is consumed by Einherjers during feasts in Valhalla.
Saehrimnir boar
Aesir and Einherjers hunt a boar and then eat its meat while feasting. The cook of the gods, Andhrímnir is responsible for preparing the meal in the Eldhrímnir cauldron. Every day Saehrimnir is brought back to life, so that the gods can go hunting again.
History of the Yggdrasil Ash Tree
Yggdrasil is one of the oldest and most important symbols of Norse mythology. Its history dates back to the beginning of the universe and is said to last until Ragnarok. The World Tree is inextricably linked to the All-Father, who looked to it as the infinite source of knowledge he coveted. One of the poems describes the story of the sacrifice Odin chose to make. Of his own free will, he hung himself from Yggdrasil, then pierced himself with a spear and forbade any help. Odin hung from the ash tree for nine days and nine nights without access to food or water. This sacrifice allowed him to gain secret knowledge of the meaning of the runes.
Etymology of the name Yggdrasil
The commonly accepted meaning of Yggdrasil is “Odin’s horse“, in the sense of “the gallows“. The name derives from the myth of Odin’s sacrifice described above. According to other interpretations, the name could mean “tree of terror” or “tree of yew.” However, researchers point out that the meaning of the word has been variable over the centuries, and it is impossible to accept a clear-cut interpretation.
The meaning and symbolism of Yggdrasil
Yggdrasil is a symbol of harmony, combining physical and spiritual life. Its mighty trunk provides stability and security, while its water and green leaves guarantee prosperity for the beings who inhabit the World Tree. Among its branches and roots live both benevolent and malevolent creatures, whose eternal dispute reflects the struggle between good and evil. Only through this balance of forces is it possible to maintain harmony throughout the universe. Yggdrasil’s destiny is to be destroyed during the Ragnarok, but according to prophecy this will not be the end of its existence. Selected heroes hiding in its crown will survive, giving hope for new life and the rebirth of the tree.
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