kærleikur

Kærleikur is an Old Norse word that translates to love. It encompasses a broad spectrum of affections, ranging from familial bonds and romantic love to platonic friendship and devotion to a higher power. The concept of kærleikur was deeply ingrained in Norse culture and mythology, appearing in various sagas and Eddic poems. It was not merely an emotion but also an action, often expressed through loyalty, protection, and generosity towards loved ones.

In Norse mythology, kærleikur is exemplified by the love between the gods themselves, such as the devotion of Odin for his wife Frigg, or the passionate, though often tumultuous, love between Freyja and Óðr. It also signifies the bonds between humans, the importance of kinship, and the loyalty shared between warriors. The concept could also extend to a love for one's community and homeland.

While often associated with positive and nurturing feelings, kærleikur could also be a source of conflict and tragedy in Norse narratives, underscoring the powerful and sometimes destructive nature of deep affection. The word itself is a compound of "kærr" meaning dear or beloved, and "leikr" meaning play or sport, suggesting a lively and active engagement with love. In modern Icelandic, the word "kærleikur" is still used to mean love.