The Messenger of the Gods
Hermod is a son of Odin and a swift, courageous god who serves as the messenger of the Æsir. Known as Hermod the Brave, he is the one the gods turn to when a task demands both speed and daring.
His greatest deed comes after the death of Baldr. While the gods mourn, Hermod volunteers to ride down to the realm of Hel to beg for his brother's release. He borrows Odin's eight-legged steed Sleipnir and rides nine nights through deep and dark valleys to reach the land of the dead.
At Hel's hall he leaps the gates on Sleipnir and pleads for Baldr. Hel agrees to release him only if every thing in the world will weep, and Hermod carries this answer back to the gods, along with gifts from Baldr and Nanna. His ride is one of the great journeys of Norse myth.
Nature and Role
Messenger
Carries the words and errands of the gods across the worlds
Swiftness
Rides Sleipnir on the fastest and most perilous of journeys
Courage
Dares the road to Hel that no other god will travel
Quick Facts
Key Connections
Residence
Asgard
Hermod serves among the Æsir as their trusted messenger
Family
- Group: Aesir
- Father: Odin
- Role: Messenger of the gods