A Völva (sometimes spelled “Volva” in English) was a highly respected female seer or shaman in Norse culture. She practiced Seidr, a form of magic used for divination, prophecy, and influencing fate. The völva played a central role in Viking spiritual life, offering guidance through her ability to connect with the supernatural realms.
Role in Norse Society:
The völva served as a bridge between the physical world and the spiritual realm, using her powers to predict future events and communicate with spirits. Unlike male practitioners, female völvas were widely accepted and sought after for their wisdom. They traveled between villages, offering their services in exchange for food and shelter.
Magical Practices:
- Seidr: A Norse magical practice used to shape destiny, communicate with gods, and foresee the future.
- Prophecy: The völva was often consulted to predict important outcomes, including battles, harvests, and the fate of kings.
- Spiritual Guidance: Völvas were known to commune with deities like Freyja, who taught Seidr to humans.
Cultural and Mythological Significance:
The völva appears in various Norse sagas and myths, such as the Völuspá, where a völva foretells the fate of the gods and the world at Ragnarök. Her connection to both the spiritual world and the mortal realm made her an essential figure in Viking society.
Common Misconception:
The term “Volva” is often misspelled or confused with biological terms in English. However, Völva refers specifically to a female seer in Norse mythology.