Vafthrudnirs

Vafthrudnir is a prominent figure in Norse mythology, primarily known for his role in the poem Vafthrudnismal, found within the Poetic Edda. He is depicted as a powerful and ancient Jotunn, a giant, renowned for his immense wisdom and his deep knowledge of cosmic lore and history. His name is often translated as "Mighty Weaver" or "Powerful Deceiver," hinting at his complex nature.

In the Vafthrudnismal, Odin, disguised as Gangleri, visits Vafthrudnir to test his wisdom. The poem details a contest of riddles and questions between the two deities. Odin seeks knowledge about the origins of the cosmos, the fate of the gods, and other profound secrets of the universe. Vafthrudnir, initially confident in his superior knowledge, engages Odin in this intellectual duel.

Throughout the exchange, Vafthrudnir poses increasingly challenging questions, many of which he believes only he can answer. However, Odin, being a god of wisdom himself, skillfully answers each riddle. The climax of the poem occurs when Odin asks Vafthrudnir a personal question about himself, a question that only Odin himself could know the answer to. This final question proves fatal for Vafthrudnir, as he loses the contest and, according to the terms they set, forfeits his life. His defeat signifies that even the wisest of giants cannot outwit a god.