Scholars concluded that the lays known as the Gróagaldr and the Fjölsvinnsmál when put together formed one cohesive whole. This lay is composed of two separate manuscripts that were only related to each other in the 19th century. This later composition of the Poetic Edda holds a clear reference to Eir and a description of her abode. There is no doubt as to her identity by the original composer or composers of the Svipdagsmál or ‘The Lay of Svipdagr’. Her devotees may have invoked her more frequently for practical purposes more those of the many more famous deities in the pantheon. The author lists her as one of the helpers of the giantess Menglöð.Īlthough not a central character in any of the sagas or poems, it is likely that Eir was a popular goddess, particularly among women. The main story involving Eir, although only in passing, is the Fjölsvinnsmál contained within the longer lay of Svipdagr, the Svipdagsmál. Given that she is predominantly a healing entity, her followers associate all instruments of healing, healing herbs, folk remedies, and items such as mortar and pestle with her. Magical objectsĪgain, as with spirit animals, we have no direct sources to indicate what magical objects she may have possessed. There are no indications of her spirit animal in the source literature, it is common in modern practice to associate her with small birds such as the sparrow or the gray jaybird. Modern-day followers of Ásatrú hold Eir in high regard and call upon her for help in all healing and childbirth endeavors. As a Valkyrie, she has the gift of healing powers for warriors on the battlefield.Īccording to some folklore sources, Eir was frequently invoked in healing ceremonies, particularly for the welfare of women and especially with all things related to childbirth. Her role with Menglod at Lyfjaberg, the hill of healing, also confers upon her great powers of medicine and midwifery. The powers of the Aesir goddess of healingĪs a member of the Ásynjur, Eir is described as being the healer among them. As handmaid to a giantess, she may well have some jotunn lineage, but as with her Aesir, or human, we can also not say this for certain. In the first instance, as an Aesir, we know nothing of her heritage.Īs a Valkyrie, she might have at one time been human, but again we know nothing of this. This creates some confusion as to her ancestry. Photo Credit: littlemoonbeamsoul Origins and lineageĮir is named both as an Aesir goddess, as a Valkyrie, and as an assistant to a jotunn healing deity.
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