Ráðstafar

Ráðstafar is an Old Norse term that translates to "counsel-gift" or "wise gift." It refers to a gift given as a sign of respect, acknowledgment of wisdom, or as a means to secure good counsel or favor. Such gifts were not merely material possessions but carried significant social and political weight in Viking Age society.

These gifts were often exchanged between individuals of different social standings, such as a chieftain bestowing a gift upon a warrior, or a supplicant offering something to a powerful figure. The act of giving a ráðstafar could signify trust, loyalty, or a desire to maintain a positive relationship. It could also be a strategic move to influence decisions or secure alliances.

The nature of a ráðstafar varied greatly depending on the context and the individuals involved. It could include items like weapons, jewelry, fine cloth, or even livestock. The value and type of the gift would reflect the social standing of both the giver and the receiver, as well as the importance of the counsel or favor being sought. The concept of ráðstafar highlights the intricate system of gift-giving and social obligation that characterized early Scandinavian societies.