árangursríkir

Arangursríkir is a term that appears in Old Norse literature, most notably in the Poetic Edda, specifically in the poem Grímnismál. The word is a compound, with "árangr" meaning "harvest" or "fruitfulness" and "ríkr" meaning "powerful" or "mighty." Therefore, "árangursríkir" can be translated as "rich in harvest," "fruitful," or "abundant."

In Grímnismál, the term is used to describe the god Freyr. The stanza reads: "Frey gefa menn mála ok fagnaðar, / ok valds ok útanverðar; / ok óðuls ríkr, / ok ár ok aldrlaga, / ok lífs ok lofðunga." While not directly translated as "árangursríkir" in this specific line, the context strongly implies Freyr's association with abundance and prosperity, which aligns with the meaning of the word. Freyr is a god associated with fertility, sunshine, and good weather, all of which contribute to a plentiful harvest.

The concept of "árangursríkir" reflects the importance of agriculture and successful harvests in ancient Norse society. Fertility and abundance were highly valued, and deities associated with these qualities, like Freyr, were venerated. The term highlights a desire for and an acknowledgment of prosperity stemming from the land. It can be seen as a descriptor of both the god and the desired state of the natural world.