örðum

"Örðum" is a term used in Icelandic folklore and mythology to refer to the spirits or beings that inhabit the underworld or the realm of the dead. These entities are often depicted as mischievous or malevolent, capable of causing trouble and misfortune to the living. In some stories, örðum are said to be the souls of the deceased who have not been properly laid to rest or who have died under tragic circumstances.

The concept of örðum is closely tied to the Icelandic belief in the afterlife and the importance of proper funeral rites. It is believed that if a person dies without a proper burial or if their soul is not allowed to rest, they may become an örðum and cause harm to the living. To prevent this, Icelandic folklore includes various rituals and customs aimed at ensuring the peaceful passage of the deceased into the afterlife.

In some regions, particularly in the Westfjords, there are specific practices to appease örðum. These may include leaving offerings of food and drink at the gravesite, singing songs, or performing rituals to honor the spirits. The belief in örðum is a reflection of the Icelandic people's deep connection to their ancestors and their fear of the supernatural.

The term "örðum" is also used more broadly to refer to any malevolent or mischievous spirit, not just those associated with the underworld. This broader usage highlights the pervasive influence of supernatural beliefs in Icelandic culture. Despite the decline of these beliefs in modern times, the legacy of örðum endures in the folklore and traditions of Iceland.