þarftni

þarftni is an Old Norse word that translates to "need" or "necessity." It describes a state of requiring something essential for survival, well-being, or to achieve a particular goal. The concept of þarftni appears in various Old Norse texts, reflecting its importance in the daily lives and cultural understanding of the Norse people.

In sagas and Eddic poetry, þarftni often pertains to practical necessities such as food, shelter, or tools. A warrior might face þarftni of provisions during a long journey, or a farmer might contend with the þarftni of good weather for a successful harvest. Beyond the purely material, þarftni could also encompass less tangible needs, like the need for companionship, guidance, or even divine favor.

The word's etymology can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic root *þarf-, meaning "to need." This root is also found in modern Germanic languages, such as the English "thar" (though archaic) and the German "darf" (may/dare). The suffix "-tni" in Old Norse often denotes a state or condition. Therefore, þarftni literally signifies the state of needing. Understanding þarftni provides insight into the values and priorities of Old Norse society, where resourcefulness and the ability to meet one's needs were highly regarded.