þágun

þágun is a term in Old Norse literature that generally translates to "convenience," "ease," or "comfort." It often refers to a state of well-being and freedom from hardship, particularly in a physical or material sense. The concept appears in various sagas and poems, reflecting the values and concerns of the society that produced them.

In its most common usage, þágun suggests a life without significant struggle. This could mean having sufficient food and shelter, being free from illness or injury, or experiencing a general lack of distress. It is often contrasted with the hardships of war, famine, or other adversities. The attainment of þágun could be a reward for good fortune, a result of careful planning, or a consequence of one's social standing.

The term can also carry a more nuanced meaning, implying a kind of settled contentment or domestic peace. A household or a community might be described as enjoying þágun if its members are living harmoniously and without significant internal conflict or external threat. This aspect highlights the importance of social stability and peaceful coexistence in the Old Norse worldview. While þágun is primarily associated with earthly comfort, its pursuit and attainment were significant aspirations for individuals and communities in the Viking Age and beyond.