Vár - Goddess of Norse Mythology

An artistic depiction of Norse goddess Var, who was revered as the keeper of oaths.
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Wise Norse goddess Vár, depicted serenely, was the revered keeper of oaths.

Vár, a Norse goddess, is commonly associated with oaths and agreements. Her name is derived from the Old Norse adjective "varr," which in its feminine form "Várr," means "shrewd," "vigilant," or "aware."

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

ᚢᚨᛦ

She is only mentioned in the Prose Edda, where she is described as a wise and careful goddess who is aware of everything that happens.

In the Gylfaginning, the thirty-fifth chapter of the Prose Edda, Vár is named as the tenth of the Ásynjur, the goddesses of the Æsir lineage. She is described as being wise and inquiring, with the ability to see through any deception and uncover hidden truths. The chapter also explains that a woman is called Vár when she becomes aware of something.

In Skáldskaparmál, the second part of the Prose Edda, Vár is listed among 27 Ásynjur, or female deities. However, scholars of Germanic studies such as Rudolf Simek suggest that it is uncertain whether Vár was actually worshipped as a goddess, or if her name was simply used to describe a specific trait or characteristic.


Please note that the information provided about Vár 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


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