sjálfr

Sjálfr is an Old Norse word that translates to "self" or "own." It is a reflexive pronoun, meaning it refers back to the subject of a sentence. For example, in the sentence "Hann sá sjálfan sig í speglinum" (He saw himself in the mirror), "sjálfan sig" refers back to "hann" (he).

The word sjálfr is also used to form possessive adjectives, such as "sinn" (his own, her own, its own) and "sér" (himself, herself, itself). These words are used when the possessor is the same as the subject of the sentence. For instance, in the sentence "Hann tók sinn hest" (He took his own horse), "sinn" indicates that the horse belongs to him.

In Old Norse literature, sjálfr often appears in phrases that emphasize individuality or autonomy. It can also be used to denote self-reliance or personal responsibility. The concept of "self" was important in Norse culture, and the word sjálfr played a key role in expressing this concept grammatically and conceptually. The etymology of sjálfr can be traced back to Proto-Germanic, highlighting its ancient roots. Understanding sjálfr is crucial for comprehending Old Norse grammar and the nuances of its philosophical outlook.