The Watchman’s Senses of Heimdall

In Norse mythology, Heimdall is most often summarized as the Watchman of the Aesir and the Guardian God of the Bifrost (the Rainbow Bridge to Asgard) He is the son of Odin and nine mothers. Heimdall keeps watch for invaders and the onset of Ragnarök from his dwelling Himinbjörg, where the burning rainbow bridge Bifröst meets the sky. He is attested as possessing foreknowledge and keen senses, particularly eyesight and hearing. The god and his possessions are described in enigmatic manners. For example, Heimdall is golden-toothed, “the head is called his sword,” and he is “the whitest of the gods.”

Enjoy the wisdom of Heimdall

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Heimdall has a number of areas where he can be of assistance, example and inspiration. Here is a list of His most prominent domains for those who do not already have a personal connection with him:

Wisdom. Heimdall is very much a thinking god. His wisdom is not the wild inspiration, mystic vision or the cold blooded king/generalship of Odin, but rather the considered and pragmatic wisdom of the watchman. Some feel he is a good choice for academic and philosophical pursuits. Being constantly on watch gives one a very different perspective. Remember that, as in helping Thor recover his hammer, wisdom does not have to require actions pleasant to the asker but rather wisdom that is effective in achieving the goal to hand.

Purpose and Focus. Heimdall is one of the most focused of the gods. He undertook a specific and costly Duty that does not end until he does. Sometimes in life, we find that it is very hard to focus on what we need to do. Heimdall can always serve as an inspiration for such focus and purpose. It is, arguably, his greatest trait, without which no other of his deeds would be possible.

Perception. Above most other things, Heimdall is a god of perception. In the myths, this is exemplified by things like: “He needs less sleep than a bird; he sees equally well night and day a hundred leagues from him, and hears how grass grows on the earth or wool on sheep, and everything that has a louder sound.” These are obvious and overt abilities, but the duties of watchman and guardian are more complex. There is a need to interpret events and actions at a level shown by reconnaissance troops, detectives, intelligence analysts and other similar perspectives. Heimdall is often good inspiration for training our perceptions or taking a fresh look.

Sacrifice and Commitment. While one could argue that Tyr is the best overall example of price and sacrifice, his choice was one made in the moment. Heimdall undertook a lifelong duty to stand the watch. This was not a small choice, or one that could be lightly taken. Although the lore does not give us details, it can be assumed that there was some thought and reflection before taking such a commitment. In a similar vein, if you are considering a major sacrifice or commitment, Heimdall’s example, inspiration and the price he paid are worthy of review.

Protection. By definition, Heimdall as watchman represents protection. However, this is not the classic brash force of Thor (although he is certainly capable of battle) but rather the sober and reflective action of one who keeps the watch and thinks ahead. Heimdall is as likely to inspire your own skills and awareness so that you can protect yourself as to grant protection. These lessons are not easily learned, and in all cases and the price is sometimes an awareness of things once unnoticed.

Social Order, Kinship and a Bridge. It is frequently argued that, as Loki’s Foe, Heimdall represents a champion of social order over disorder, and that Loki can represent rebellion and disruption (which is sometimes needed in society). In addition, the Voluspa refers to us as kinsmen or children of Heimdall and, as Rig, he is tied strongly to social classes in the society of our ancestors. In the end, a watchman seeks to protect the society over which he watches. Heimdall can inspire and guide in those cases where we seek to keep a group together and functioning. Moreover, Bifrost is first and foremost a bridge, and bridges connect people. Heimdall can be a good example for walking between fractious communities while maintaining positive relations with all.

Communication. Gjallarhorn is a device for sending a signal loudly and across the worlds. That signal must be clear and unambiguous. Likewise, Heimdall can be a good inspiration for important and clear communication. Remember, however, that Gjallarhorn is rarely (possibly very rarely) sounded, and such efforts should not be wasted on unimportant things.

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There is an interesting interpretation of Tyr’s actual importance and the importance of his sacrifice. Heimdall did accept a lifelong Duty. Tyr’s sacrifice however was not only for a greater good for the gods. to protect not only the Asgard realm, but every living being from the impending doom when Fenrir was chained.

There is also an interpretation of Tyr being the actual full “brother god” in terms of who he really is (guardian, earthkeeper and keeper of balance) with Mars (both farmer and warrior).

Last but not least it is also believed that initially it was Tyr who was the Norse pantheon leader. To some extent this is supported by the fact that his day (Tuesday) immediately follows the days of the Sun and Moon that were the original beginning days of a week (last one being the day of Saturn, of karma and lessons). However, due to a shift to more warlike conquering concept of the Viking tribes Wotan (who is far more cold, rational and brutal) was given the first place among the Norse gods and Tyr became Thor’s bloodthirsty brother (which concept is supported by Wednesday neighbored by Tuesday and Wednesday where Wotan is the keeper of balance).

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Tyr is coming next :)

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