An Insight into Váli: The Avenger God of Norse Mythology
Váli might not be as widely recognized in the pantheon of Norse deities, yet his significance is profound, especially concerning the tragedy of Baldr’s demise—one of the most celebrated stories in Norse lore. Recognized as a god of vengeance, Váli is referenced in significant texts including the Poetic Edda, the Prose Edda, and the Gesta Danorum.
The lineage of Váli is noteworthy; he is the offspring of Óðin and the jötunn goddess Rindr. Óðin, disguised as a female figure, deceives Rindr, intending to conceive a child who would exact vengeance for Baldr’s untimely end. Described as disheveled and unclean, Váli is characterized by his bravery in battle and remarkable archery skills. Miraculously, he transitions into adulthood within a single day. He ultimately kills Höðr, the twin brother of Baldr (and his own half-brother), who is tragically misled by Loki into committing fratricide.
Listeners and readers of the lore are aware that Loki is the true architect behind Baldr’s murder. Subsequently, after Loki faces punishment for his deeds, Váli takes on the grim task of slaying one of Loki’s sons, using his entrails to bind him to rocks as retribution.
Váli’s destiny includes surviving the cataclysmic events of Ragnarök alongside his brothers—Baldr, Höðr, and Viðarr.
Reflection on Váli’s Origin
The tale surrounding Váli’s conception and birth is peculiar and tumultuous, particularly considering his role in avenging the death of a family member—an act steeped in ancient Norse taboo. To uncover the narrative, one must delve into Saxo’s Gesta Danorum, which narrates that after Baldr’s assassination, Óðin seeks guidance from seers to discover a path for vengeance. It is foretold that Rindr will bear Óðin a son, destined to avenge Baldr. Deception plays a part as Rindr is led to share a bed with Óðin, either through consent or coercion while he masquerades as a healer.
Váli commits to a vow of vengeance that includes abstinence, paralleling the path taken by his brother Viðarr. An excerpt from Vegtamskviða captures this vow:
“Rindr will bear Váli in western halls:
he, Óðin’s son, will fight when one night old;
he’ll neither wash his hands nor comb his head
before he conveys Baldr’s shooter onto the funeral pyre.”
This passage indicates that the act of avenging Baldr does not bring joy to the gods; rather, it weighs heavily on them. With Baldr gone, as well as Höðr and Nanna—Baldr’s spouse—a dark pall hangs over the proceedings. Furthermore, Váli’s act of killing his half-brother deepens the tragedy of the situation. The prophesied beginnings of Ragnarök have begun, a narrative encapsulating despair and inevitability.
Emblems of Váli
Váli is often associated with symbols of young warriors, elements of ritual cleanliness, and the use of war paint, indicating his connection to battle and retribution.
Alternative Names
Váli may also be recognized by other names such as Vála, Ali, and Bous.
