skaðvöld

Skaðvöld is a concept in Norse mythology that refers to the idea of wounding or harming oneself through thought or action. In Old Norse, the term "skaðvöld" is derived from "saka," meaning "to harm" and "völd," meaning "deed" or "act." In Norse mythology, any action or thought that caused harm or wounding to oneself or others was considered a skaðvöld.

Skaðvöld was often associated with the concept of harm or damage caused by an individual's own actions or thoughts, rather than by external forces. This could include self-inflicted wounds, suicidal thoughts, or other forms of self-harm. In Norse mythology, individuals who engaged in skaðvöld were often seen as having brought suffering or misfortune upon themselves.

In some interpretations, skaðvöld was also associated with the concept of seiðr, a form of magic or sorcery in Norse mythology. Practitioners of seiðr who caused harm to themselves or others through their magical actions were considered to have committed skaðvöld.

The concept of skaðvöld has been interpreted by scholars as a reflection of the Norse attitude towards self-discipline and personal responsibility. It suggests that individuals must take care to avoid harming themselves and others, and that failure to do so results in negative consequences. This concept continues to be studied and interpreted by scholars of Norse mythology, offering insights into the values and mores of ancient Norse culture.