vægari

Vægari is a term that appears in Norse mythology, specifically in the Eddic poem Grímnismál. It is a name for Odin, the chief god in the Norse pantheon. The name vægari itself is not extensively explained within the surviving texts, leaving its precise etymology and meaning open to scholarly interpretation. However, it is understood to be one of the many epithets or kennings used to refer to Odin, reflecting his diverse roles and characteristics.

In Grímnismál, Odin, disguised as the old man Grímnir, recites a series of his names and descriptions to the young Agnar. The inclusion of vægari among these names suggests it is a significant descriptor, though its specific nuance is lost to us. Scholars have proposed various translations and interpretations for vægari, often linking it to concepts such as "wary," "watchful," or "he who wages war." These interpretations align with Odin's known attributes as a god of wisdom, war, poetry, and magic, often depicted as a keen observer and strategist. The use of multiple names for deities was common in ancient Germanic cultures, serving to emphasize different aspects of their divine power and influence. Vægari, therefore, is another piece in the complex tapestry of Odin's identity.