Tyr values balance and cosmic order, yet sacrificed his own symmetry and balance, for the preservation of order. This is an important distinction between him and Odin who sacrifices parts of himself for knowledge and power (a self-serving motivation) whereas Tiwaz sacrifices in the name of cosmic order. He values inner strength and the courage to uphold the greater good of the collective - putting righteousness and the community before the personal desires of the ego. Hopefully this doesn't come across as speaking for him but this is my interpretation based on my own interactions with him (he's awesome btw
Or perhaps he lost his power to Odin when he betrayed his honor with Fenrir, when manipulated by Odin. Odin had no problem sacrificing Tyrs highest ideal to try and preserve himself, in turn enacting a self fulfilling prophecy.
hahaha this is true my friend. i never even thought about it that way, but it is true. and i think his youtube channel is invaluable for us, modern ppl.
Tyr is a god I’m reaching out to a fair amount these days, as someone who has anxiety issues he (along with Thor and Odin) is a god I want to grow closer to.
@@dieseljay700 I suppose just be honest, I cant speak for Tyr of course and your experiences and mine will most certainly differ. Oaths are something important to Tyr Ive found, not saying you need to swear him an oath but yeah. Treat him with respect I suppose, like you would Odin.
I don't know. I have a hard time reducing the Gods to "gods *of*" things. Seems like that approach is to take a very complex entity and water it down. Tyr is Tyr. I think he has a noble and justiciar side, but also he's a War God. War is about balance, just like justice.
Exactly. The classical Hellenistic gods are described as such, but that convention of a god being "of something" that is their conceptual domain does not readily apply to gods of other cultures. Gods are complex personalities, similar to humans. Think of the Abrahamic god Yahweh -- what is he the god of? Humans like to categorize things and put them in boxes. The gods are more than that.
Most of the Norse "creatures" have fundamental element to them tho. Based on a idea or two. Loki for example embodiment of chaos/luck/unlucky or tricker. Sometimes he helps you sometimes not. Gods for day and night. Giants for earth, fire & ice. Odin have lots of connections to the mind his name, the mad one. His animals, thought, memory, greed & hunger. the sky/wind often represents the mind. Thor is a god born by earth and wind. He has powers that connect them both.
Tyr was the first god I connected to on this path; I'm not a soldier nor was I, but that was the direction my path went, presently, anyhow. As for revering Tyr, I offer what I can, when; I try to be a decent human being, which presently is one of few things I can offer presently unless I'm sharing something. Tyr also gave me my strongest experience with the gods. I used to live in another state with a generic pagan pride festival. I had a bit of money and was walking around when I felt pulled to a booth, where I found a metal Tiwaz rune pendant. I bought it, put it on, and thought "Okay, this is what's happening, cool, let's look around". Well a bit later on the same day at the festival while wearing the pendant I saw the sihlouette of a man with a short stubbly beard GRINNING at me and when I looked to speak to him, he was gone.... It was Tyr. I was absolutely surprised to see him as well, Tyr's been as around as one can expect of the gods since I started' the time to acclimate to others has been slow since I'm easily overwhelmed, but I can't forget Tyur grinning at me in that time.
My father is a follower of Odin and he saw him once. He was in his garden, in deep thought, when he saw a tall figure in a cloak walk over the hill, which can be seen from my dad's house. The figure appeared from the shadows of two trees and just vanished after a few seconds. Since then we call that hill the "Odin hill" and we lit a candle up there with his rune, right next to the trees.
@Nova Strike Can you give more detail about what Tyr looked like, He is one of the gods that I feel closest to and have only started this journey about a week to a week and a half ago but when I preyed to him I felt something deep that I haven't felt when I prayed to the other gods. I was going through a rough time at school and the morning before school started I preyed to him and all of a sudden I got to school and everybody was kind to me and I was more excepted, I prayed that I would be treated justly and that he shine his light upon me and those I hold dear and he did. So far he and Thor (Also maybe Odin) have answered my prayers so now that I heard that you saw him I really want to know what he looks like so I can keep an eye out.
@@paradoxis213gaming3 Well, the first thing I feel needs said is, he seemed shadowed -- at the peripheral part of my vision. I couldn't make out many features, but when I saw him he had stubble or a beard and a smile. While many people say Tyr is best for soldiers, I think he responds well with people whom face a struggle. I wasn't very popular in school either, and my parents were awful. But I want to emphasize his response to one person might be different to his response to someone else. With Tyr it helps to find what area you connect most with him in, and work from there. I hope the gods continue to watch over you with the school thing!
You're spot on with your assessment of The Binding. Tyr befriended Fenrir but in the end he was the only one courageous enough to sacrifice his hand. Remember that the binding of Fenrir was a self -fulfilling prophecy in which we must ask, had Odin never heard the prophecy would he have bound Fenrir thus sealing his own fate? Also keep in mind that "justice" has different meanings. Not all that is lawful is just and not all that is just is lawful. I feel from my experience with meeting him personally, associating him to law is a later addition. Your perspective is pretty close (my perspective isn't the popular one either). Also...isn't it odd that prior to seeing this I marked my weapons with Tyr runes, called to him as described, and blessed the markings with blood 😏
Thank you for these videos. I mainly venerate Odin based on a past experience I had with him. Recently though something happened that I felt was Odin directing me to seek out Tyr. I love your channel because I can get quick information from you that help guide me when I begin my own research.
It is a story of bravery, certainly. He was doing what needed to be done. Very likely, knowing the outcome. Tyr was the only one who was not only brave enough, but was smart enough to know there was no other path to the currently desired outcome.
I think Tyr is a representation of how to achieve victory. He will give you victory, however the idea of him sacrificing his hand for the better it shows that victory (or in modern senses success such as a succeeding business or risk paying out) showing you have to give some to get some or take a hit to come back harder.
Tyr is a general, not a warrior, generals in the original meaning are warriors that know how to use the weapons they have available, including the soldiers around them. Tyr used his father to provide the cauldron, and Thor to carry it, like a general would, using his tricks.
Only someone with experience can be a general. Do you honestly believe this? He wasn't born a general. That should be obvious. He's a fucking god of War
@@looseknaught You ever been in the military? Have you ever tried to follow a person that is inexperienced into combat? Trust me it becomes a shit show really fast.
@@looseknaught Also, you seem to have a christian idea of what a god is. Even Odin in the Havamal speaks of being young once, and he had to sacrifice himself to himself to learn the Runes. In this tradition the gods aren't omnipotent, and have always existed and will always exist like in the abrahamic tradition. They can even die as Odin and many others will do, and as Baldr did. So they have a life span, they are young, they grow old (It is Idun's apples that help keep them youthful). So yes even Tyr was not an omnipotent GOD OF WAR, he learned to lead no different than Odin learned the Runes.norse gods. Have you read the Poetic Edda, or are you just a fan of the TV shows?
In regards to the Fenrir story, you mention the courage and bravery, I’ll dive a little bit deeper. He was the only God willing to make the necessary sacrifice to save the others. There was a cost to bind him and Tyr was the one willing to pay that cost.
I always saw Tyr as a god of self-sacrifice, for the act of letting Fenrir bite his hand off since no other gods would do that. Plus, why Tyr would have compassion for Fenrir? The Wolf was not a pet, the god of war wasn't taking care of the Wolf out of love for the "puppy".
Wolves are considered sacred….even by the Gods. That’s why the Gods binded Fenrir and didn’t kill him. Tyr put his hand in Fenrir’s mouth because of HONOR. Tyr was the most honorable of the Gods. The first God of War, the God of honor, the God of justice, the God of the wild hunt. For Tyr to refuse would have been a shameful mark on his honor.
I see the story of Fenrir and Gleipnir as both bravery and sacrifice for the greater good...as well as a combination of oath making *and* breaking. The Aesir recognized Fenrir as a threat to the world, but even after the had Gleipnir woven to bind him, none were willing to take Fenrir's request to put a hand in his maw as a pledge that he would be released if he couldn't escape on his own. By putting his hand in Fenrir's mouth, Tyr accepted that oath both in bad faith (because he knew the oath would be broken by his fellow Aesir) and as an act of sacrificial courage, as everyone knew whomever put their hand in Fenrir's mouth was going to lose that hand when the great wolf couldn't free himself from Gleipnir. I wonder, if losing what was likely his sword hand was an instrumental narrative describing Tyr's fall from grace as the chief war god of the Norse and Germanic tribes and being replaced by Wotan/Odin. Consider, a mighty and skilled warrior who has lost his dominant hand will remain respected in his tribe, but that respect is likely an artifact left over from when he was in his prime, while true veneration is reserved for the newer god who, though missing an eye is considered wiser and more strategic in their approach to conflict. To me, Tyr has always represented courage, sacrifice for the greater good and justice in its most basic form...but as I've grown older, there's also an element of strategy and sort of road-scholar-dom of centuries of experience dealing with foes. I have never felt a particular affinity for Odin or indeed any of the other Norse gods, with the minor exception of Baldr. Tyr, however, speaks to me strongly...maybe because courage is a thing a have a dearth of in my character, maybe because I give of myself to the point of self-harm at times. Either way...while I agree that compassion is not one of the things that I get from the core story of the Binding of Fenrir, I also feel that Tyr embodies far more than just pure bravery.
I can see both perspectives regarding Tyr's representation. Imo part of victory is knowing when to show mercy or compassion. I am of the opinion that Tyr could have helped to raise Fenrir as the other gods were afraid to as he saw something different. But in doing what he thought was the greater good, he paid the price for Fenrir's binding.
I think Týr giving his hand is not only a show of bravery but also loyalty. It's kind of a dark side of loyalty though, since the gods promised they would loose Fenrir which of course they don't do. Still, Týr sticks with his buddies, loses his hand for it, but also the gods and midgard are safe from the wolf, for a time. It reminds me of Kierkegaard's 'teleological suspension of the ethical'. What do you do when the greater peace and loyalty to friends come at odds with an oath? It's a nasty business breaking oaths and there will be consequences. Týr chose loyalty. Hence we have in the prose edda "ok er hann einhendr ok ekki kallaðr sættir manna"-- 'and so is he One Handed, and not called the agreement-keeper among men'.
Tyr is divine cosmic JUSTICE. Up until only a few decades ago this was settled through war. War = Justice. You MUST fight for your own justice - Tyr will not do it for you. No god will live your life for you, but if you are one who does the right thing, your tribe will be stronger - if your tribe is stronger it will conquer weaker tribes. To be just, to do the right thing, sometimes you must sacrifice yourself, or part of yourself, for the greater good. Courage and Bravery are Thor's PRIME traits. Tyr must have them too though, as to do the right thing - to be just - you must have the courage to do the right thing. My Tuesday prayer/mantra (spoken aloud 3X): Hail to Tyr; I am an honorable man. I do the right thing, even if it's difficult. I speak true words, and I fight for my own justice.
Hello 😊 I find your interpretation of Týr very interesting. I for a while now have kind of felt a interest in learning and working more with Týr as a deity. Today it has suddenly clicked for me why I feel this pull towards Týr and it is because he symbolised (based on my limited knowledge of him) bravery, strength and courage, and for my current life situations that is exactly the energies I am needing more of in my life. Then I found your video as my first point of "research" and knowledge into Týr and you echoed my exact feeling. So I just found it interesting that my intuitive impression of Týr was exactly what you said. Thank you for such an informative video. 😊
I can't speak to others experiences, but I have had experiences that brought me to Tyr. At this moment in my life I was an Atheist. I had been enduring abuse for some time by the man of the house, and my mother had passed recently. It was a time of awakening for me. I had visions at night, and felt a connection with not only Tyr, but a wolf spirit. I realized the wolf was me, and that Tyr was guiding me. Perhaps he is not the god of justice, it is hard to define. But to me he is, for he gave me an essence of strength and honor. It also influenced my political beliefs, but the spiritual is more important. With my mother gone of this realm, and the rest of my kin safe elsewhere, I was going to kill that man. To take in blood all he took from me and my kin. I had had to wait for the right time, but my chance was taken from me when the police arrested him that evening. Im living a good life now, but there's still a flame in my heart. So if you ask if Tyr is the god of justice.. he is not the only one, but he spoke of justice to me.
As a veteran of armed service and one proud of that duty and service, Tyr speaks to me. I was raised in the christian church, but many of the choices and personal accomplishments I had pride for did not jive with the foundations of that belief system. Their Jesus spoke about turning the other cheek and meek inheriting the earth, so seeing Christians in the military is an interesting double standard to observe. As a man who strives to be true to his self and to everyone else around him, I couldn’t stomach that bi-polar sort of duality. What I get from the story of the binding of Fenrir, is that even though you may not entirely agree with what’s going on, your sense of duty and sacrifice to clan or nation is above all. Tyr was said to be the only one who comfortably approached the world ender. As veterans, we deploy to situations most people wouldn’t dare. Less then 1% of the US population serve in the military. Veterans sacrificed. Active Duty members constantly sacrifice. Some a little, some a lot. But by doing so, each of us who served became a son and daughter of Tyr. I also believe that, a man or woman should not be judged by what they look like, rather how well they fight for what they hold dear.
The qualities mentioned for Tyr are mentioned in the Eddas. When I look at Loki's statements I cannot overlook the fact that Loki is considered a god a mischief and a Trickster. When I look at Tyr's deeds in Sacrificing his hand I see a god resolving a dispute between the Aesir and Fenrir by making a sacrifice of his hand. He demonstated the Bravery of making a necessary sacfrifice that none of the other gods was willing to make. In order to solve disputes you have to put away the sword, Tyr gave his whole hand and his ability to hold a sword to bind Fenrir. Tyr is demonstrating the Bravery needed to make difficult sacrifices including the ability to make war to solve a dispute. Throughout history wars have ended but the disputes behind the war have remained and can only be solved by peaceful negotiations. I think this principle is being shown by Try's actions with regard to putting his hand in Fenrir's mouth. There are always several layers of meaning in sacred writtings and since the Eddas are stories and poems about the Gods and Ancestors they are Sacred writtings. It is not just the qualities that the Aesir and Vanir have and the things they preside over that we need to know, we also need to embrace the wisdom shown by them that is reflected by their deeds. So my conclusion is that Tyr is a wise and Skillful General who knows wise and clever strattegies and is brave enough to make the necessary sacrifices to ensure an end to Conflicts. So, cleverness and wisdom in battle, Bravery, Honor, and Justice are Tyr's qualities, for by sacrificing his hand, Tyr made it possible for Fenrir to be permanently bound, and Fenrir being bound was both necessary and just. Fenrir being bound was the Justice that was needed and Try had the Bravery to make that happen. Tyr demonstrates qualities that a good warrior should have and a good man should have. Justice, wisdom and cleverness in battle
I would explain Tyr as always having a moral compass point north. It takes bravery to do the right thing. The right thing is just, honorable, and rarely easy. Helping a friend get the cauldron - not easy, but when you’re asked for aid you give it (within reason) Going to feed a dog was the right thing, and fair - everyone should eat. Putting his hand in fenrir’s mouth to get the band on him - the right thing to do trying to save the world and sacrifice to do so.
I am new to my Norse paganism journey and have not had any experiences with Tyr, my personal experiences have come from Odin, Thor and Freyja. I think your take on Tyr and the parts you pulled out from your research and how you interpreted those stories have helped me begin to understand Tyr a little more and I look forward to finding out more about him myself
I like to view Tyr and Odin as duel chieftain gods, each in charge of different things. My image of Tyr is as a paladin who works towards order. Odin would be like a wizard who works towards innovation. Tyr values discipline and Odin values imagination. Tyr is about justice and honor, and Odin is about cunning and articulation. Course, this is my own modern take.
Actually, there are proofs that the eastern germanic tribes (such as the goths) revered Týr above Odin, so you might be onto something. PD: I'm not a religious man so if I offend someone I'll delete this. You guys are people I respect.
In general, I agree with your observations. I would add that Tyr had a connection with Fenrir since he actually played with Fenrir when he was a wolf-cub. This I would argue would transition to when the bound Fenrir; there was some sympathy for Fenrir and also a sense that he knew that the gods had basically tricked Fenrir in his final binding. Here we see Tyr’s bravery and also his sense of justice: no one would keep the bargain with the wolf. But Tyr did. I also think ( strictly my opinion ) that this is why the 2 would confront each other at Ragnarök .
Loki's insult in Lokasenna made me think he was making a literal pun, since humans typically will "weigh" two things by holding one in each hand....which Tyr can no longer do 😉😆
I am Celtic pagan but love the Nordic gods. I do comparative mythology and look for the ancient protoIE gods, and Tyr has now fallen into place. Mithra -Mitra - Mars - Midir - Tyr. I thought it would be Modi but not anymore. Tyr is the warrior of justice.
I believe Tyr did it for many different reasons. I see Tyr giving his hand to Fenrir as a way to balance the scales of justice the other gods deception would cause otherwise. He settled the argument and dispute before it even happened in full. He knew the outcome of losing his hand before even offering it to the wolf. Brave yes; calculated as well in my opinion. Ive only just know found your channel; but the few videos I’ve watched have all strengthened my beliefs of this pantheon. Thank you.
I feel the binding of Fenrir doesn't show Tyr's bravery, as much as his example of self sacrifice for one's kin. If they didn't bind Fenrir it would have been a catastrophe, so Tyr stepped forward to do what must be done. An example of sacrificing your time and comfort for your family and loved ones, even if it means putting your life on the line to save theirs.
I kinda think it could be a combination of things. At the binding, Tyr knew what was coming, and he would be the one to do it. No one else would do it, and he fed Fenrir. Because of what Fenrir is, I'm sure Tyr knew what could happen. Knowing you're going to lose your hand out of your own duty to be helpful is very brave. Whatever it may be, I'm really greatful for this video :) Have been looking forward to this one.
I definitely don't think it was love and compassion. Tyr feeding of Fenrir I see more as a duty. Like a soldier feeding a prisoner of war. Sacrifice for the greater good, yes but in the sense of duty and war. Right hand is significant as it's most people's dominant hand.
Tyr is interesting. I think you’re right that his core traits and reason for veneration must include bravery and courage. His cunning and resourcefulness also cropped up in the other stories you told us. But the Binding story specifically is one about self-sacrifice and consequences. Tyr knew that someone had to put their hand in Fenrir’s mouth. If no one did, the plan would fail, and thus it would put important people’s lives at risk. So when no one else stepped up, Tyr had the bravery to put his hand into the wolf’s mouth- KNOWING full well the consequences to that decision. He chose to accept those consequences in the name of succeeding elsewhere. I think that informed decision speaks hugely to Tyr’s character and is a core part of how I see him.
I have always believed his choices were strategic, but also he respected the powerful wolf and perhaps even felt compassion at points, yet that is almost irrelevant because he kind of always knew he was working to betray the wolf for his people. The moment he stuck his hand in Fenrir's mouth, it was clearly not at all compassionate, he knew what was coming, he wasn't trying to help or save the wolf, he was being brave enough to be the one to sacrifice for the cause, as a great war god would be willing to do. View it as you will, as long as you realize he's awesome! 🤘
Tyr offering his hand is not an act of compassion. It is an act of sacrifice. He knows that the Wolf will bite when he is bound true. He is the only one brave enough to face that sacrifice without hesitation.
I think it’s both, I think it’s compassion AND bravery. Tyr was brave to approach Fenrir but he also built a trust with him, I don’t think there wasn’t any love there between them. Tyr knew that if he approached Fenrir and placed his hand he knew that Fenrir could trust him of all the Aesir.
Norwegian here. If you want to see visualization of some of the stories of the old gods check out "Valhall" cartoon books by Peter Madsen. Not sure if they are in English. Read them when I was a kid. Funny and well told.
Someone else's reply made a connection for me - the reason there's no solid answer between him being a god of war OR the god of law, justice, etc. is because he's both depending on when you're talking about him. Before Fenrir - he was a god of war. Then he gave up his Sword arm to spare all of existence from Fenrir until Ragnarok.. Fenrir asked for his sword hand to be placed in his mouth as an offer of good faith - once he lost that arm - he was permanently hindered in battle - he became the god of law / justice because he made the "right" / "just" / "selfless" decision to give up everything that he ever was, wanted to be, or before then would ever be - to instead - do what only HE could do, make the call no-one else could, and pay the cost of containing Fenrir - because in that moment had anyone else approached Fenrir he wouldn't have taken the gesture or the bind.. but because Fenrir knew Tyr and that he didn't fear him, he had reason to trust the gesture of good faith "Tyr, god of war, would never give up his sword arm" Tyr did 3 things in my mind here - he perpetuated a lie, to trick the most dangerous being in existence to cage itself, at the cost of all he was until that moment..
Presumably the other gods saw this - and one of those moments where something is created as it's destroyed happened: Tyr the god of war sacrificed everything - and died in some ways but, in doing so he birthed the god of law and justice.. now seen as the god that will do what he can, with what he has, for his and yours, the one you call to do the things no-one else can or will do but still need to be done - the one to do what's right - no matter the cost.. Edits were for grammatical error's and elaboration on motive & intent
Tyr placed his hand in the wolf mouth knowing he would lose it. Tyr is a god of war, honor and justice and even Fenrir deserved justice. Brave he was to sacrifice his hand but sometimes you must be brave to do what is right for it is not always easy
I see in Tyr more than bravery, but the guts to do what the others would not right then and there: stop Fenrir from wrecking havoc knowing he will lose his hand in the bargain hoodwinking Loki’s son. Tyr is a retiring, older god who does not suffer fools gladly. He’s a good judge of character.
Honor and duty also played a part in his actions and could easily be confused with compassion when your duty lead you to perform a selfless act that benefits another
You are doing great work brother in the name of Odin and the gods brother all hail Odin and all hail lord Thor and all hail the allfather of Valhalla skal brothers and sisters from a very proud Norse pagan from Dublin Ireland
Tyr helped raise the wolf, and there was already an established bond there. It was, somewhat easier for Tyr to be able to enter into a... contract... with Fenrir during the binding. He lived up to his part of the contract, and gave his hand. I think that it's here that he was seen as the one that was one to be with the rules, and to (eventually) run the althing.
Any thought on Fenrir saying “put your arm in my mouth for a sign of good faith”. Tyr could’ve thought it through that “yes, it is in good faith. Fenrir has a lot of power and a lot of conflict. So in good faith(peace) Tyr willingly put his arm in there. Understanding the circumstances, and doing what needs to be done
Thank you! Quality content as always. I really appreciate how you take us on hikes into nature for most of your videos. An active lifestyle is very important, and what better way to show us?
I was engrossed in the video right through 20mins. It wasn't until you pointed it out in your pop-up message that I saw just how crazy and wild your hair was; I really cracked up >_
I know this is an older video at this point, but I think this compassionate view of Tyr (RE: Fenrir and Tyr's hand) comes from AC: Valhalla, but also mainly from Norse Gods by Neil Gaiman, where Tyr is shown to be quite friendly and fond of the wolf. Anyway, loved the video.
First, I just want to say that I love your curls so don't worry about the haircut. Now in discussion I actually feel the same way you do. I've always thought of Tyr as most brave, a formidable warrior making him the God of War. But as with all things, stories change throughout the years with outside influences. So, as you say, it's what you take from it. I think this is a fabulous discussion since most of us know Tyr with the relation to Fenrir, and not much else. Excellent video! Looking forward to more Tyr. Skál!
4:45 Stronger does not mean always a better fighter, and a better fighter doesn't mean always a better way startegist. Many people at this day and age seems to confuse them all into one, brute strength.
dr jackson crawford has a video going over the germanic latin connections. one interesting fact that is brought up is that tyrs name when translated is zues
Sounds so good. Sounds also when you describe him with wolf very much like the strength card in tarot. How we have to be gentle or ubtle.ti overcome we. The facts that by wording with kindness gets the job done more than with fear. I have just bought the runic tarot. I am loving your channel thanks muchly. Xx
A passage in Sun Tzu’s Art of War depicts a general sucking the poison out of the wound of one of his infantrymen, saving the young soldier’s life. Upon seeing this, the soldier’s mother began to weep, to the surprise of another observer. The mother explained that by sucking the poison out of her son’s wound and saving his life, the general has obtained the soldier’s lifelong devotion, the soldier will not be returning home. Raw bravery is the stuff of andrenaline junkies and those more fearful of losing status than their health. In regard to leadership in conflict, both of these traits are more of a liability than anything else, given the inherent responsibility a leader assumes for the lives of others, such inward facing motivations hinder one’s ability to base decisions on that responsibility, which ultimately hinders the leader’s ability to serve the purpose of the group’s cause. All of this is to say that interpreting Tyr’s act as one of simple bravery, portrays him as more of a trigger- happy, hot shot berserker who probably put his hand in Fenryr’s mouth to impress Freyja, than as a diety capable of winning sufficient trust and devotion from his followers, for those followers to willingly put their life at risk at his command.
The person who made the inscription on Hadrian’s wall may have believed in tyr.. but it’s also likely being England that they believe in Mars ALSO separately and look up to is as like tyr. Many people like myself don’t just follow 1 specific thing like asatru.. we also follow Wicca and more.. so believe their one in their own yet the same.
I think you present the case for Tyr well. We dont have a lot of material to work with, but from we what we have, Tyr is described as "brave". It is also mentioned that he isnt capable/good at solving disputes. We dont know if its because he tricked Fenris, or because he was bad at it to begin with. But IF he was a god of honour and trust, it stands to reason that he is disgraced by tricking the wolf. Or maybe he was simply a brave, brutish fighter, that was very bad at diplomacy..? We will never know..
While I can see and appreciate both of those view points about Tyr's actions during the binding, I read it the same way as Jacob. Tyr was the only one there willing to do what had to be done knowing full well what his sacrifice would be. He may even have in his wisdom chosen to befriend the wolf from the start to gain enough trust. What I have wondered about personally is why the right hand? Certainly we don't know if Tyr is a righty or a lefty but statistically most are right handed. So did he stick the right hand in to protect the left for some reason or was the right hand the greater act of sacrifice and bravery?
Tyr was head of pantheon before Odin. When he lost his hand he stopped being excellent and no longer could be main god in charge. Tyr was god of Justice that's why he put he's arm in his mouth (war and bravery too of course) Odin has his eye seeing things for him in other dimension so he technically still has it.
On the name of Tyr being added to the other gods: Maybe there is a connection to the linguistic origin of the name as linguistics reconstructed the name of "*Dyḗus ph₂tḗr" meaning something like "father daylight-sky-god" in proto-indo-european language which transformed into the name of several other gods leading pantheons e. g. Dyeus -> Zeus or *Dyḗus ph₂tḗr -> Ju-piter. I've heard in some videos that there might also be a linguistic connection of ph₂tḗr -> Tyr.
In all reality, it can be both. Tyr could have both done it because of his oath and bravery, and out of honor for Fenrir. People are extremely complex. Tyr seems to represent victory, self sacrifice, oaths, bravery and war. Both views seem valid in my opinion. I’ll only know if Tyr decides to say something lol
I thought it was literally an act of bravery and self-sacrifice while other gods just were too afraid or not willing to give. He probably knew he was likely to get his hand bit off.
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"Týr couldn't pick up the cauldron, meaning he's weaker than Thor"
Týr with his one hand: Am I a joke to you
Well, it's all in the legs.
LMFAOOO
Tyr values balance and cosmic order, yet sacrificed his own symmetry and balance, for the preservation of order. This is an important distinction between him and Odin who sacrifices parts of himself for knowledge and power (a self-serving motivation) whereas Tiwaz sacrifices in the name of cosmic order. He values inner strength and the courage to uphold the greater good of the collective - putting righteousness and the community before the personal desires of the ego.
Hopefully this doesn't come across as speaking for him but this is my interpretation based on my own interactions with him (he's awesome btw
A hero god
Or perhaps he lost his power to Odin when he betrayed his honor with Fenrir, when manipulated by Odin. Odin had no problem sacrificing Tyrs highest ideal to try and preserve himself, in turn enacting a self fulfilling prophecy.
good one! love it :D
Is this ab out your test t i Kill eL
I love how his vids feel like a TV show about Norse Paganism
hahaha this is true my friend. i never even thought about it that way, but it is true. and i think his youtube channel is invaluable for us, modern ppl.
Tyr is a god I’m reaching out to a fair amount these days, as someone who has anxiety issues he (along with Thor and Odin) is a god I want to grow closer to.
Hmm also have anxiety issues you reach out to Tyr any help? or advice?
@@dieseljay700 I suppose just be honest, I cant speak for Tyr of course and your experiences and mine will most certainly differ. Oaths are something important to Tyr Ive found, not saying you need to swear him an oath but yeah. Treat him with respect I suppose, like you would Odin.
I don't know. I have a hard time reducing the Gods to "gods *of*" things. Seems like that approach is to take a very complex entity and water it down.
Tyr is Tyr. I think he has a noble and justiciar side, but also he's a War God. War is about balance, just like justice.
Exactly. The classical Hellenistic gods are described as such, but that convention of a god being "of something" that is their conceptual domain does not readily apply to gods of other cultures. Gods are complex personalities, similar to humans. Think of the Abrahamic god Yahweh -- what is he the god of?
Humans like to categorize things and put them in boxes. The gods are more than that.
Most of the Norse "creatures" have fundamental element to them tho.
Based on a idea or two. Loki for example embodiment of chaos/luck/unlucky or tricker. Sometimes he helps you sometimes not.
Gods for day and night. Giants for earth, fire & ice.
Odin have lots of connections to the mind his name, the mad one. His animals, thought, memory, greed & hunger. the sky/wind often represents the mind. Thor is a god born by earth and wind. He has powers that connect them both.
@@tylerdillon3745 Yahveh is the god of nihilism.
I agree
Tyr was the first god I connected to on this path; I'm not a soldier nor was I, but that was the direction my path went, presently, anyhow.
As for revering Tyr, I offer what I can, when; I try to be a decent human being, which presently is one of few things I can offer presently unless I'm sharing something.
Tyr also gave me my strongest experience with the gods. I used to live in another state with a generic pagan pride festival. I had a bit of money and was walking around when I felt pulled to a booth, where I found a metal Tiwaz rune pendant. I bought it, put it on, and thought "Okay, this is what's happening, cool, let's look around". Well a bit later on the same day at the festival while wearing the pendant I saw the sihlouette of a man with a short stubbly beard GRINNING at me and when I looked to speak to him, he was gone.... It was Tyr. I was absolutely surprised to see him as well,
Tyr's been as around as one can expect of the gods since I started' the time to acclimate to others has been slow since I'm easily overwhelmed, but I can't forget Tyur grinning at me in that time.
That sounds amazing! A truly inspiring experience!
My father is a follower of Odin and he saw him once. He was in his garden, in deep thought, when he saw a tall figure in a cloak walk over the hill, which can be seen from my dad's house. The figure appeared from the shadows of two trees and just vanished after a few seconds. Since then we call that hill the "Odin hill" and we lit a candle up there with his rune, right next to the trees.
@@Anxious_bastard That's amazing!
@Nova Strike Can you give more detail about what Tyr looked like, He is one of the gods that I feel closest to and have only started this journey about a week to a week and a half ago but when I preyed to him I felt something deep that I haven't felt when I prayed to the other gods. I was going through a rough time at school and the morning before school started I preyed to him and all of a sudden I got to school and everybody was kind to me and I was more excepted, I prayed that I would be treated justly and that he shine his light upon me and those I hold dear and he did. So far he and Thor (Also maybe Odin) have answered my prayers so now that I heard that you saw him I really want to know what he looks like so I can keep an eye out.
@@paradoxis213gaming3 Well, the first thing I feel needs said is, he seemed shadowed -- at the peripheral part of my vision. I couldn't make out many features, but when I saw him he had stubble or a beard and a smile. While many people say Tyr is best for soldiers, I think he responds well with people whom face a struggle. I wasn't very popular in school either, and my parents were awful. But I want to emphasize his response to one person might be different to his response to someone else. With Tyr it helps to find what area you connect most with him in, and work from there. I hope the gods continue to watch over you with the school thing!
You're spot on with your assessment of The Binding. Tyr befriended Fenrir but in the end he was the only one courageous enough to sacrifice his hand. Remember that the binding of Fenrir was a self -fulfilling prophecy in which we must ask, had Odin never heard the prophecy would he have bound Fenrir thus sealing his own fate? Also keep in mind that "justice" has different meanings. Not all that is lawful is just and not all that is just is lawful. I feel from my experience with meeting him personally, associating him to law is a later addition. Your perspective is pretty close (my perspective isn't the popular one either). Also...isn't it odd that prior to seeing this I marked my weapons with Tyr runes, called to him as described, and blessed the markings with blood 😏
Thank you for these videos.
I mainly venerate Odin based on a past experience I had with him. Recently though something happened that I felt was Odin directing me to seek out Tyr.
I love your channel because I can get quick information from you that help guide me when I begin my own research.
It is a story of bravery, certainly. He was doing what needed to be done. Very likely, knowing the outcome. Tyr was the only one who was not only brave enough, but was smart enough to know there was no other path to the currently desired outcome.
I think Tyr is a representation of how to achieve victory. He will give you victory, however the idea of him sacrificing his hand for the better it shows that victory (or in modern senses success such as a succeeding business or risk paying out) showing you have to give some to get some or take a hit to come back harder.
Tyr is a general, not a warrior, generals in the original meaning are warriors that know how to use the weapons they have available, including the soldiers around them. Tyr used his father to provide the cauldron, and Thor to carry it, like a general would, using his tricks.
The norse gods are all warriors in their own right
Only someone with experience can be a general. Do you honestly believe this? He wasn't born a general. That should be obvious. He's a fucking god of War
@@looseknaught You ever been in the military? Have you ever tried to follow a person that is inexperienced into combat? Trust me it becomes a shit show really fast.
@@looseknaught Also, you seem to have a christian idea of what a god is. Even Odin in the Havamal speaks of being young once, and he had to sacrifice himself to himself to learn the Runes. In this tradition the gods aren't omnipotent, and have always existed and will always exist like in the abrahamic tradition. They can even die as Odin and many others will do, and as Baldr did. So they have a life span, they are young, they grow old (It is Idun's apples that help keep them youthful). So yes even Tyr was not an omnipotent GOD OF WAR, he learned to lead no different than Odin learned the Runes.norse gods. Have you read the Poetic Edda, or are you just a fan of the TV shows?
@@looseknaught 👏👏👏 well said
In regards to the Fenrir story, you mention the courage and bravery, I’ll dive a little bit deeper. He was the only God willing to make the necessary sacrifice to save the others. There was a cost to bind him and Tyr was the one willing to pay that cost.
I always saw Tyr as a god of self-sacrifice, for the act of letting Fenrir bite his hand off since no other gods would do that. Plus, why Tyr would have compassion for Fenrir? The Wolf was not a pet, the god of war wasn't taking care of the Wolf out of love for the "puppy".
Wolves are considered sacred….even by the Gods. That’s why the Gods binded Fenrir and didn’t kill him. Tyr put his hand in Fenrir’s mouth because of HONOR. Tyr was the most honorable of the Gods. The first God of War, the God of honor, the God of justice, the God of the wild hunt. For Tyr to refuse would have been a shameful mark on his honor.
@@Nils_Ironwolf pretty sure.. Tyr has nothing to do with the Wild Hunt, and thats solely an Odin association.
Some belive that in ancient times, Tyr was worshiped as the main deity before Odin.
@@Nils_Ironwolf they didn't kill him because Odin promised Loki that he wouldn't kill him.
@@vegasz93 because wolves are considered sacred by the Gods.
This is the most quality information I could find about Tyr on TH-cam hands down!!
Thank you, I appreciate it!
I see the story of Fenrir and Gleipnir as both bravery and sacrifice for the greater good...as well as a combination of oath making *and* breaking. The Aesir recognized Fenrir as a threat to the world, but even after the had Gleipnir woven to bind him, none were willing to take Fenrir's request to put a hand in his maw as a pledge that he would be released if he couldn't escape on his own. By putting his hand in Fenrir's mouth, Tyr accepted that oath both in bad faith (because he knew the oath would be broken by his fellow Aesir) and as an act of sacrificial courage, as everyone knew whomever put their hand in Fenrir's mouth was going to lose that hand when the great wolf couldn't free himself from Gleipnir.
I wonder, if losing what was likely his sword hand was an instrumental narrative describing Tyr's fall from grace as the chief war god of the Norse and Germanic tribes and being replaced by Wotan/Odin. Consider, a mighty and skilled warrior who has lost his dominant hand will remain respected in his tribe, but that respect is likely an artifact left over from when he was in his prime, while true veneration is reserved for the newer god who, though missing an eye is considered wiser and more strategic in their approach to conflict.
To me, Tyr has always represented courage, sacrifice for the greater good and justice in its most basic form...but as I've grown older, there's also an element of strategy and sort of road-scholar-dom of centuries of experience dealing with foes. I have never felt a particular affinity for Odin or indeed any of the other Norse gods, with the minor exception of Baldr. Tyr, however, speaks to me strongly...maybe because courage is a thing a have a dearth of in my character, maybe because I give of myself to the point of self-harm at times.
Either way...while I agree that compassion is not one of the things that I get from the core story of the Binding of Fenrir, I also feel that Tyr embodies far more than just pure bravery.
I can see both perspectives regarding Tyr's representation. Imo part of victory is knowing when to show mercy or compassion. I am of the opinion that Tyr could have helped to raise Fenrir as the other gods were afraid to as he saw something different. But in doing what he thought was the greater good, he paid the price for Fenrir's binding.
Nice to see Tyr’s information in one place, really puts Tyr in a more clear perspective. Great video 👍🏻
I think Týr giving his hand is not only a show of bravery but also loyalty. It's kind of a dark side of loyalty though, since the gods promised they would loose Fenrir which of course they don't do. Still, Týr sticks with his buddies, loses his hand for it, but also the gods and midgard are safe from the wolf, for a time. It reminds me of Kierkegaard's 'teleological suspension of the ethical'. What do you do when the greater peace and loyalty to friends come at odds with an oath? It's a nasty business breaking oaths and there will be consequences. Týr chose loyalty. Hence we have in the prose edda "ok er hann einhendr ok ekki kallaðr sættir manna"-- 'and so is he One Handed, and not called the agreement-keeper among men'.
Tyr is also honorable and him showing Fenrir compassion also falls into being honorable.
Fenrir isnt to be felt sorry for, he's an enemy of the Gods
Tyr is divine cosmic JUSTICE. Up until only a few decades ago this was settled through war. War = Justice. You MUST fight for your own justice - Tyr will not do it for you. No god will live your life for you, but if you are one who does the right thing, your tribe will be stronger - if your tribe is stronger it will conquer weaker tribes. To be just, to do the right thing, sometimes you must sacrifice yourself, or part of yourself, for the greater good. Courage and Bravery are Thor's PRIME traits. Tyr must have them too though, as to do the right thing - to be just - you must have the courage to do the right thing. My Tuesday prayer/mantra (spoken aloud 3X): Hail to Tyr; I am an honorable man. I do the right thing, even if it's difficult. I speak true words, and I fight for my own justice.
Hello 😊
I find your interpretation of Týr very interesting.
I for a while now have kind of felt a interest in learning and working more with Týr as a deity.
Today it has suddenly clicked for me why I feel this pull towards Týr and it is because he symbolised (based on my limited knowledge of him) bravery, strength and courage, and for my current life situations that is exactly the energies I am needing more of in my life.
Then I found your video as my first point of "research" and knowledge into Týr and you echoed my exact feeling.
So I just found it interesting that my intuitive impression of Týr was exactly what you said.
Thank you for such an informative video. 😊
an argument is always welcomed as it advances everyone's thinking; thank you for great work, you've a new subscriber:)
Glad you enjoyed the video!
I know you’re right ! Hail TYR
I would have to agree with you!! I think that the story is a story of bravery as well
I am glad I am not alone in seeing it this way 😂
@@TheWisdomOfOdin definitely not alone!! I'm glad I got to actually watch a video early 😊
I can't speak to others experiences, but I have had experiences that brought me to Tyr. At this moment in my life I was an Atheist. I had been enduring abuse for some time by the man of the house, and my mother had passed recently. It was a time of awakening for me. I had visions at night, and felt a connection with not only Tyr, but a wolf spirit. I realized the wolf was me, and that Tyr was guiding me. Perhaps he is not the god of justice, it is hard to define. But to me he is, for he gave me an essence of strength and honor. It also influenced my political beliefs, but the spiritual is more important. With my mother gone of this realm, and the rest of my kin safe elsewhere, I was going to kill that man. To take in blood all he took from me and my kin. I had had to wait for the right time, but my chance was taken from me when the police arrested him that evening. Im living a good life now, but there's still a flame in my heart. So if you ask if Tyr is the god of justice.. he is not the only one, but he spoke of justice to me.
As a veteran of armed service and one proud of that duty and service, Tyr speaks to me. I was raised in the christian church, but many of the choices and personal accomplishments I had pride for did not jive with the foundations of that belief system. Their Jesus spoke about turning the other cheek and meek inheriting the earth, so seeing Christians in the military is an interesting double standard to observe. As a man who strives to be true to his self and to everyone else around him, I couldn’t stomach that bi-polar sort of duality.
What I get from the story of the binding of Fenrir, is that even though you may not entirely agree with what’s going on, your sense of duty and sacrifice to clan or nation is above all. Tyr was said to be the only one who comfortably approached the world ender. As veterans, we deploy to situations most people wouldn’t dare. Less then 1% of the US population serve in the military. Veterans sacrificed. Active Duty members constantly sacrifice. Some a little, some a lot. But by doing so, each of us who served became a son and daughter of Tyr. I also believe that, a man or woman should not be judged by what they look like, rather how well they fight for what they hold dear.
The qualities mentioned for Tyr are mentioned in the Eddas. When I look at Loki's statements I cannot overlook the fact that Loki is considered a god a mischief and a Trickster. When I look at Tyr's deeds in Sacrificing his hand I see a god resolving a dispute between the Aesir and Fenrir by making a sacrifice of his hand. He demonstated the Bravery of making a necessary sacfrifice that none of the other gods was willing to make. In order to solve disputes you have to put away the sword, Tyr gave his whole hand and his ability to hold a sword to bind Fenrir. Tyr is demonstrating the Bravery needed to make difficult sacrifices including the ability to make war to solve a dispute. Throughout history wars have ended but the disputes behind the war have remained and can only be solved by peaceful negotiations. I think this principle is being shown by Try's actions with regard to putting his hand in Fenrir's mouth. There are always several layers of meaning in sacred writtings and since the Eddas are stories and poems about the Gods and Ancestors they are Sacred writtings. It is not just the qualities that the Aesir and Vanir have and the things they preside over that we need to know, we also need to embrace the wisdom shown by them that is reflected by their deeds. So my conclusion is that Tyr is a wise and Skillful General who knows wise and clever strattegies and is brave enough to make the necessary sacrifices to ensure an end to Conflicts. So, cleverness and wisdom in battle, Bravery, Honor, and Justice are Tyr's qualities, for by sacrificing his hand, Tyr made it possible for Fenrir to be permanently bound, and Fenrir being bound was both necessary and just. Fenrir being bound was the Justice that was needed and Try had the Bravery to make that happen. Tyr demonstrates qualities that a good warrior should have and a good man should have. Justice, wisdom and cleverness in battle
I would explain Tyr as always having a moral compass point north. It takes bravery to do the right thing. The right thing is just, honorable, and rarely easy.
Helping a friend get the cauldron - not easy, but when you’re asked for aid you give it (within reason)
Going to feed a dog was the right thing, and fair - everyone should eat.
Putting his hand in fenrir’s mouth to get the band on him - the right thing to do trying to save the world and sacrifice to do so.
I am new to my Norse paganism journey and have not had any experiences with Tyr, my personal experiences have come from Odin, Thor and Freyja. I think your take on Tyr and the parts you pulled out from your research and how you interpreted those stories have helped me begin to understand Tyr a little more and I look forward to finding out more about him myself
I like to view Tyr and Odin as duel chieftain gods, each in charge of different things. My image of Tyr is as a paladin who works towards order. Odin would be like a wizard who works towards innovation. Tyr values discipline and Odin values imagination. Tyr is about justice and honor, and Odin is about cunning and articulation.
Course, this is my own modern take.
Actually, there are proofs that the eastern germanic tribes (such as the goths) revered Týr above Odin, so you might be onto something.
PD: I'm not a religious man so if I offend someone I'll delete this. You guys are people I respect.
@@darkwill15 Well, I did say it was my opinion.
In general, I agree with your observations.
I would add that Tyr had a connection with Fenrir since he actually played with Fenrir when he was a wolf-cub. This I would argue would transition to when the bound Fenrir; there was some sympathy for Fenrir and also a sense that he knew that the gods had basically tricked Fenrir in his final binding.
Here we see Tyr’s bravery and also his sense of justice: no one would keep the bargain with the wolf. But Tyr did.
I also think ( strictly my opinion ) that this is why the 2 would confront each other at Ragnarök .
I was born with a short arm so personally I feel a particular affiliation or fondness of Tyr
Very good, as always! Please, it would be great if you make a video about Freyr too, as he is a god so misunderstood.
Justice, cleverness and wisdom in battle, Bravery and the Courage to make necessary sacrifices, this is Tyr.
I see Try as one that is willing to do what he must to protect his family
Loki's insult in Lokasenna made me think he was making a literal pun, since humans typically will "weigh" two things by holding one in each hand....which Tyr can no longer do 😉😆
Oh I like that.... and that sounds like a Loki to make a deep sick joke.
I am Celtic pagan but love the Nordic gods. I do comparative mythology and look for the ancient protoIE gods, and Tyr has now fallen into place. Mithra -Mitra - Mars - Midir - Tyr. I thought it would be Modi but not anymore. Tyr is the warrior of justice.
I believe Tyr did it for many different reasons. I see Tyr giving his hand to Fenrir as a way to balance the scales of justice the other gods deception would cause otherwise. He settled the argument and dispute before it even happened in full. He knew the outcome of losing his hand before even offering it to the wolf. Brave yes; calculated as well in my opinion.
Ive only just know found your channel; but the few videos I’ve watched have all strengthened my beliefs of this pantheon. Thank you.
I feel the binding of Fenrir doesn't show Tyr's bravery, as much as his example of self sacrifice for one's kin. If they didn't bind Fenrir it would have been a catastrophe, so Tyr stepped forward to do what must be done. An example of sacrificing your time and comfort for your family and loved ones, even if it means putting your life on the line to save theirs.
agreed Courage and bravery
I kinda think it could be a combination of things. At the binding, Tyr knew what was coming, and he would be the one to do it. No one else would do it, and he fed Fenrir. Because of what Fenrir is, I'm sure Tyr knew what could happen. Knowing you're going to lose your hand out of your own duty to be helpful is very brave. Whatever it may be, I'm really greatful for this video :) Have been looking forward to this one.
I definitely don't think it was love and compassion. Tyr feeding of Fenrir I see more as a duty. Like a soldier feeding a prisoner of war. Sacrifice for the greater good, yes but in the sense of duty and war. Right hand is significant as it's most people's dominant hand.
Tyr is interesting. I think you’re right that his core traits and reason for veneration must include bravery and courage. His cunning and resourcefulness also cropped up in the other stories you told us. But the Binding story specifically is one about self-sacrifice and consequences. Tyr knew that someone had to put their hand in Fenrir’s mouth. If no one did, the plan would fail, and thus it would put important people’s lives at risk. So when no one else stepped up, Tyr had the bravery to put his hand into the wolf’s mouth- KNOWING full well the consequences to that decision. He chose to accept those consequences in the name of succeeding elsewhere. I think that informed decision speaks hugely to Tyr’s character and is a core part of how I see him.
Love this and all your informative videos
Hail Tyr !
I have always believed his choices were strategic, but also he respected the powerful wolf and perhaps even felt compassion at points, yet that is almost irrelevant because he kind of always knew he was working to betray the wolf for his people. The moment he stuck his hand in Fenrir's mouth, it was clearly not at all compassionate, he knew what was coming, he wasn't trying to help or save the wolf, he was being brave enough to be the one to sacrifice for the cause, as a great war god would be willing to do. View it as you will, as long as you realize he's awesome! 🤘
This gives new meaning to the saying "Don't bite the hand that feeds you"
I think Tyr is Odin like that Tyr is Young Odin.
Tyr really resonates with me as a god because I’m an 11 Bravo infantrymen and for the uninitiated we are a bit of a cult. lmfao 🤣
Tyr offering his hand is not an act of compassion. It is an act of sacrifice. He knows that the Wolf will bite when he is bound true. He is the only one brave enough to face that sacrifice without hesitation.
I think it’s both, I think it’s compassion AND bravery. Tyr was brave to approach Fenrir but he also built a trust with him, I don’t think there wasn’t any love there between them. Tyr knew that if he approached Fenrir and placed his hand he knew that Fenrir could trust him of all the Aesir.
Norwegian here. If you want to see visualization of some of the stories of the old gods check out "Valhall" cartoon books by Peter Madsen. Not sure if they are in English. Read them when I was a kid. Funny and well told.
Someone else's reply made a connection for me - the reason there's no solid answer between him being a god of war OR the god of law, justice, etc. is because he's both depending on when you're talking about him.
Before Fenrir - he was a god of war. Then he gave up his Sword arm to spare all of existence from Fenrir until Ragnarok..
Fenrir asked for his sword hand to be placed in his mouth as an offer of good faith - once he lost that arm - he was permanently hindered in battle - he became the god of law / justice because he made the "right" / "just" / "selfless" decision to give up everything that he ever was, wanted to be, or before then would ever be - to instead - do what only HE could do, make the call no-one else could, and pay the cost of containing Fenrir - because in that moment had anyone else approached Fenrir he wouldn't have taken the gesture or the bind.. but because Fenrir knew Tyr and that he didn't fear him, he had reason to trust the gesture of good faith "Tyr, god of war, would never give up his sword arm"
Tyr did 3 things in my mind here - he perpetuated a lie, to trick the most dangerous being in existence to cage itself, at the cost of all he was until that moment..
Presumably the other gods saw this - and one of those moments where something is created as it's destroyed happened:
Tyr the god of war sacrificed everything - and died in some ways but, in doing so he birthed the god of law and justice.. now seen as the god that will do what he can, with what he has, for his and yours, the one you call to do the things no-one else can or will do but still need to be done - the one to do what's right - no matter the cost..
Edits were for grammatical error's and elaboration on motive & intent
Dragon and Tyr story's are awesome
Tyr placed his hand in the wolf mouth knowing he would lose it. Tyr is a god of war, honor and justice and even Fenrir deserved justice. Brave he was to sacrifice his hand but sometimes you must be brave to do what is right for it is not always easy
Thanks man, killing it as usual.
Very powerful god gardian of the high spiritual realms
I see in Tyr more than bravery, but the guts to do what the others would not right then and there: stop Fenrir from wrecking havoc knowing he will lose his hand in the bargain hoodwinking Loki’s son. Tyr is a retiring, older god who does not suffer fools gladly. He’s a good judge of character.
I hear of a sacrifice and curage the bravery and wilingness to take on the challenge
Honor and duty also played a part in his actions and could easily be confused with compassion when your duty lead you to perform a selfless act that benefits another
You are doing great work brother in the name of Odin and the gods brother all hail Odin and all hail lord Thor and all hail the allfather of Valhalla skal brothers and sisters from a very proud Norse pagan from Dublin Ireland
Hell of a good spot man bad ass ❤️🔥🤘🏼🛡️⚔️ and you always give me more information thank you so much
Tyr helped raise the wolf, and there was already an established bond there. It was, somewhat easier for Tyr to be able to enter into a... contract... with Fenrir during the binding. He lived up to his part of the contract, and gave his hand. I think that it's here that he was seen as the one that was one to be with the rules, and to (eventually) run the althing.
There is no bond between Tyr or Fenrir, he merely fed him. Fenrir is force of chaos, an enemy of the Godd
Any thought on Fenrir saying “put your arm in my mouth for a sign of good faith”. Tyr could’ve thought it through that “yes, it is in good faith. Fenrir has a lot of power and a lot of conflict. So in good faith(peace) Tyr willingly put his arm in there. Understanding the circumstances, and doing what needs to be done
Thank you! Quality content as always. I really appreciate how you take us on hikes into nature for most of your videos. An active lifestyle is very important, and what better way to show us?
I was engrossed in the video right through 20mins. It wasn't until you pointed it out in your pop-up message that I saw just how crazy and wild your hair was; I really cracked up >_
I always saw the binding of Fenrir as a story of sacrifice and a little bit of bravery not compassion
I know this is an older video at this point, but I think this compassionate view of Tyr (RE: Fenrir and Tyr's hand) comes from AC: Valhalla, but also mainly from Norse Gods by Neil Gaiman, where Tyr is shown to be quite friendly and fond of the wolf. Anyway, loved the video.
I went to that fort a few years ago when visiting KY! Thank you for sharing this awesome content!
Martial strength is a main factor in laws being respected.
First, I just want to say that I love your curls so don't worry about the haircut. Now in discussion I actually feel the same way you do. I've always thought of Tyr as most brave, a formidable warrior making him the God of War. But as with all things, stories change throughout the years with outside influences. So, as you say, it's what you take from it. I think this is a fabulous discussion since most of us know Tyr with the relation to Fenrir, and not much else. Excellent video! Looking forward to more Tyr. Skál!
4:45 Stronger does not mean always a better fighter, and a better fighter doesn't mean always a better way startegist. Many people at this day and age seems to confuse them all into one, brute strength.
dr jackson crawford has a video going over the germanic latin connections. one interesting fact that is brought up is that tyrs name when translated is zues
Sounds so good. Sounds also when you describe him with wolf very much like the strength card in tarot. How we have to be gentle or ubtle.ti overcome we. The facts that by wording with kindness gets the job done more than with fear. I have just bought the runic tarot. I am loving your channel thanks muchly. Xx
i see forseti, the son of Baldr and Nanna as the god of justice
I think of Tyr, Baldr, Forseti and Odin as the primary gods of justice
Loved the video!! I love your God week videos
12:37 "Tiw", similar names, is actually related to "Deus", "God". Tyr was also the original chief deity before Odin.
I always saw that story being about bravery/courage too
I think both interpretations are true. I think he was the bravest. I also think he cared about the wolf named Fenrir.
The way I see it is justice it's like a trade he knows that the beast will be trapped he must also know there would be no way to save his hand
I'm not exactly experienced with Tyr, but I also came to the same conclusion.
A passage in Sun Tzu’s Art of War depicts a general sucking the poison out of the wound of one of his infantrymen, saving the young soldier’s life. Upon seeing this, the soldier’s mother began to weep, to the surprise of another observer. The mother explained that by sucking the poison out of her son’s wound and saving his life, the general has obtained the soldier’s lifelong devotion, the soldier will not be returning home.
Raw bravery is the stuff of andrenaline junkies and those more fearful of losing status than their health. In regard to leadership in conflict, both of these traits are more of a liability than anything else, given the inherent responsibility a leader assumes for the lives of others, such inward facing motivations hinder one’s ability to base decisions on that responsibility, which ultimately hinders the leader’s ability to serve the purpose of the group’s cause.
All of this is to say that interpreting Tyr’s act as one of simple bravery, portrays him as more of a trigger- happy, hot shot berserker who probably put his hand in Fenryr’s mouth to impress Freyja, than as a diety capable of winning sufficient trust and devotion from his followers, for those followers to willingly put their life at risk at his command.
This video kind of feels like a good listen, whilest doing a Týr artwork, but to gain knowledge aswell.
The person who made the inscription on Hadrian’s wall may have believed in tyr.. but it’s also likely being England that they believe in Mars ALSO separately and look up to is as like tyr. Many people like myself don’t just follow 1 specific thing like asatru.. we also follow Wicca and more.. so believe their one in their own yet the same.
I think you present the case for Tyr well. We dont have a lot of material to work with, but from we what we have, Tyr is described as "brave". It is also mentioned that he isnt capable/good at solving disputes. We dont know if its because he tricked Fenris, or because he was bad at it to begin with. But IF he was a god of honour and trust, it stands to reason that he is disgraced by tricking the wolf. Or maybe he was simply a brave, brutish fighter, that was very bad at diplomacy..? We will never know..
Anything that starts with "loki says" should be listened to but took with a degree of skepticism always. The best of lies are bound with 90% truths.
Love your videos hope to come to one of the gatherings one day
While I can see and appreciate both of those view points about Tyr's actions during the binding, I read it the same way as Jacob. Tyr was the only one there willing to do what had to be done knowing full well what his sacrifice would be. He may even have in his wisdom chosen to befriend the wolf from the start to gain enough trust. What I have wondered about personally is why the right hand? Certainly we don't know if Tyr is a righty or a lefty but statistically most are right handed. So did he stick the right hand in to protect the left for some reason or was the right hand the greater act of sacrifice and bravery?
Fenrir would've known he was going to be betrayed if he put in his non-dominant hand
Tyr was head of pantheon before Odin. When he lost his hand he stopped being excellent and no longer could be main god in charge. Tyr was god of Justice that's why he put he's arm in his mouth (war and bravery too of course)
Odin has his eye seeing things for him in other dimension so he technically still has it.
Wrong, Tyr was never the chief deity. It's a common misconception, it's always been Wotan (Odin)
On the name of Tyr being added to the other gods: Maybe there is a connection to the linguistic origin of the name as linguistics reconstructed the name of "*Dyḗus ph₂tḗr" meaning something like "father daylight-sky-god" in proto-indo-european language which transformed into the name of several other gods leading pantheons e. g. Dyeus -> Zeus or *Dyḗus ph₂tḗr -> Ju-piter. I've heard in some videos that there might also be a linguistic connection of ph₂tḗr -> Tyr.
Hello great information thank you
Man its crazy how close we live together, i live in richmond
In all reality, it can be both. Tyr could have both done it because of his oath and bravery, and out of honor for Fenrir. People are extremely complex. Tyr seems to represent victory, self sacrifice, oaths, bravery and war. Both views seem valid in my opinion. I’ll only know if Tyr decides to say something lol
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I feel Tyr also wanted to gain the trust of Fenrir and nobody else was brave enough
Oh hey dude you're right around the corner from me. Bundle up! The cold came fast!
I noticed you seem to be in Kentucky quite a bit. I’m from KY also being a Norse pagan!
There are spirits there at the fort. D'you get to meet any of them?
I thought it was literally an act of bravery and self-sacrifice while other gods just were too afraid or not willing to give. He probably knew he was likely to get his hand bit off.
Regarding Bravery vs Compassion with Fenrir... why not both? It doesn't necessarily have to be an either/or situation.