Forseti (pronounced: "FOR-seh-tee") is a deity from Norse mythology, known as the god of justice and reconciliation. He is the son of Baldr and Nanna, and his name means "he who presides" in Old Icelandic. Forseti is believed to have lived in the heavenly hall of Glitnir, which had pillars of red gold and a roof of silver.
The name "Forseti" in Old Norse runes is written as:
ᚠᚢᚱᛋᛁᛏᛁ
In Norse mythology, Forseti is only mentioned once in the Poetic Edda, in stanza 15 of the poem Grímnismál. In the poem, Odin describes Glitnir as the residence of Forseti, where he "appeases all lawsuits." In the Prose Edda, Forseti is further described in chapter 32 of the Gylfaginning section as the god who presides over the best tribunal among gods and men. All those who submit their disputes to him return reconciled.
Forseti's role as the god of justice has led some scholars to suggest that he may be a hypostasis of the god of law and justice, Týr. Others have suggested that Forseti and the Frisian god Fosite may be equivalents, given their lexical similarities.
Despite his minor role in Norse mythology, Forseti has left a mark on Scandinavian culture. For example, there is a locality in Norway called Forsetlund, which likely takes its name from Forseti. Additionally, his role as the god of justice and reconciliation has made him a symbol for various legal and judicial organizations.
In popular culture, Forseti has been featured in various books, movies, and video games based on Norse mythology. He is often depicted as a wise and just figure, who seeks to settle disputes fairly and peacefully.
Please note that the information provided about Forseti 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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Other Norse Gods and Goddesses
Baldr (Æsir) - God of Light, Beauty, and Goodness.
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