þarba

þarba is a term that appears in Old Norse literature, notably in the Poetic Edda. Its exact meaning and origin are subject to scholarly debate, with various interpretations proposed. One common understanding is that þarba refers to a type of coarse, rough cloth or sacking. This interpretation is often based on etymological connections to words in other Germanic languages that denote similar materials.

Another theory suggests that þarba might have a more specific or symbolic meaning within the context of Old Norse society and mythology. Some scholars have explored potential links to ritualistic garments or materials used in funerary practices. The infrequent appearance of the word means that definitive conclusions are difficult to reach.

The occurrences of þarba in the Eddic poems, such as in Hávamál, are often brief and do not provide extensive context. This scarcity of textual evidence contributes to the ongoing discussion and differing scholarly opinions regarding its precise denotation. Despite these ambiguities, the term remains a point of interest for those studying Old Norse vocabulary and material culture.