The Tale of Fenrir the Giant Nordic Wolf

The Symbol of Wolves in Norse Mythology

In Norse Mythology, wolves hold great significance and contribute significantly to the creation of prophecies, stories, and legends. Among these wolves, Fenrir stands out as a prominent figure, often regarded as the leader and father of all wolves. Additionally, other notable wolves like Skoll, Hati, Geri, and Freki each have their own unique tales to share.

In accordance with the legend, the Sun is relentlessly pursued by the wolf Skoll, while the Moon is relentlessly pursued by the wolf Hati, until the onset of Ragnarok. It is during Ragnarok that Skoll and Hati will consume the Sun and the Moon, thus bringing the prophecy to fruition. The wolves Geri and Freki, who are closely associated with the renowned wolf warriors known as Ulfhednar, serve as loyal companions to the deity Odin.

Fenrir the Giant Wolf

One of the most well-known legendary creatures is the monstrous wolf known as Fenrir or Fenris. Throughout various Viking Age manuscripts, Fenrir is also mentioned by other names such as Hróðvitnir, meaning “fame wolf,” and Vánagandr, which translates to “monster of the river.” Fenrir is the offspring of the god Loki and the giantess Angrboda, who also bore two other children – Jörmungandr, referred to as “The World Serpent,” and the goddess of the Underworld, Hel.

 The birth of the three children in Jötunheimr, the realm of the Giants in Norse Mythology, triggered a sense of impending catastrophe and calamity among the Aesir Gods. In response, Odin commanded the Gods to gather the three Giants, and upon their arrival, he cast Jörmungandr into the depths of the sea and Hel into Niflheim. As for Fenrir, the decision was made to raise him under the careful watch of the Gods in order to keep him under control. The Aesir Gods soon noticed that Fenrir, the Wolf, was growing at an astonishing rate, accompanied by an immense physical strength befitting his divine nature. Only the God Tyr possessed the courage to approach Fenrir and provide him with nourishment. It is said that when Fenrir opened his mouth, it spanned the entire expanse between Heaven and Earth. Fenrir’s true nature is that of a “Jotun” or “Jotnar,” which refers to the ancient Norse Giants residing in Jotunheim. These formidable and supernatural beings are known for their power and fear-inducing presence. Among the Jotun Tribe are also the deities Skaldi and Gerd.

Binding of Fenrir and Tyr

In Norse mythology, Tyr, known as the God of War and Justice, displayed remarkable bravery and integrity among all the deities. It was Tyr who assumed the responsibility of raising and nurturing Fenrir, the monstrous wolf. Each day, Tyr diligently provided sustenance to Fenrir, causing unease and apprehension among the Aesir Gods. Recognizing the potential threat if Fenrir were to turn against them, the Gods devised a strategy to avert this inevitable consequence.

The Aesir Gods, in their quest to bind the mighty Fenrir, devised an unyielding fetter of unparalleled strength. This formidable chain, known as Leyding, was forged from heavy iron. With great anticipation, they presented the fetter to Fenrir, urging him to test his strength against it. Agreeing to their request, Fenrir allowed himself to be bound, only to effortlessly break free with a single powerful kick. Undeterred, the gods sought to create a stronger fetter, one that could withstand the might of the monstrous wolf. Thus, Dromi was crafted, twice as potent as its predecessor. However, Fenrir, with a mere shake of his body, sent the fetter crashing to the ground, shattering it with a swift kick. Realizing the need for an even more formidable restraint, the Aesir turned to the skilled dwarfs, renowned craftsmen of the Nine Worlds. They beseeched the dwarfs to fashion the most indomitable fetter ever conceived. The result was Gleipnir, a fetter meticulously crafted from the subtle sounds of a cat’s movement, the delicate strands of a woman’s beard, the unyielding roots of a mountain, the resilient sinew of a bear, the ethereal breath of a fish, and the ephemeral spittle of a bird. Gleipnir, in contrast to its predecessors, appeared as a slender cord, belying its true strength and power. In a challenge presented by the Aesir to prove his might, Fenrir, the renowned wolf, responded by questioning the significance of gaining fame through the destruction of the powerful Gleipnir. He proposed that someone place their hand in his jaws as a guarantee of good faith to complete the task. Despite the reluctance of the Aesir, only the god Tyr possessed the bravery to accept the pledge. As Fenrir fiercely fought against the enchanted fetter, its strength only intensified with each struggle. It was at this pivotal moment that Fenrir abruptly snapped his jaws shut, severing Tyr’s hand from his body.

In order to permanently secure Fenrir, the Aesir achieved success by restraining him with the powerful cord known as Gelgja, which hung from the mighty Gleipnir. To ensure his immobility, they passed the cord through a massive stone slab named Gjöll and firmly anchored it deep within the earth. In response to this, Fenrir, the wolf, unleashed a violent reaction and attempted to sink his teeth into the gods. However, the Aesir swiftly retaliated by thrusting a sword into Fenrir’s jaws. The result was a horrifying howl from Fenrir, accompanied by the flow of saliva that would eventually form the river known as Van. It is believed that within the depths of the river Van, Fenrir will remain until the fateful event of Ragnarok, the ultimate downfall of the gods.

Fenrir In the Battle of Ragnarok

In the prophesied event of Ragnarok, the wolf Fenrir is destined to bring about widespread destruction in the cosmos. Once freed, he will rampage throughout the entire expanse, his lower jaw touching the earth while his upper jaw reaches towards the sky, consuming everything in his path. Additionally, it is foretold that Fenrir will deliver a fatal blow to Odin, the Allfather, only to be met with vengeance as Odin’s son, Víðarr, ultimately brings about his demise.

Fenrir Today

Fenrir, the legendary wolf, continues to serve as a muse for artists worldwide. Contemporary depictions of Fenrir can be found predominantly in Viking jewelry, as well as in historical reconstructions. Craftsmen often incorporate Fenrir as an embellishment on Viking shields, axes, swords, and drinking horns. Within the realm of Viking jewelry, Fenrir remains a beloved subject, adorning Viking Arm Rings, pendants, and necklaces. In ancient times, arm rings held great significance for the Vikings, symbolizing loyalty to their chieftains and showcasing their prosperity and social standing within the Viking community. Today, individuals who identify as Modern Vikings, Heathens, and Pagans proudly wear arm rings and Viking jewelry adorned with Fenrir’s image, paying homage to both the wolf and their ancestors.