Odin's favorite son was Balder, a beloved figure in Norse mythology known for his beauty and justice.
Balder: The Beloved Son of Odin
Balder was the son of the chief god Odin and his wife, Frigg. He was widely adored among all the gods due to his remarkable qualities. Described as beautiful and just, Balder held a special place in the hearts of the Æsir, making him the favorite among them, and by extension, his father Odin's most cherished son.
Here are some key attributes of Balder:
Attribute | Description |
---|---|
Parentage | Son of Odin (chief god) and Frigg |
Qualities | Beautiful, just, and good-hearted |
Status | Favorite of the gods |
Notable Trait | Immune from harm by most objects and forces |
The Significance of Balder
Balder's popularity stemmed from his pure and noble nature, which endeared him to the entire pantheon of gods. His beauty and righteous character set him apart. Icelandic stories recount how the gods would amuse themselves by throwing objects at him, knowing he was immune to any harm. Most legends surrounding Balder, however, prominently feature his tragic and pivotal death, which played a significant role in the events leading up to Ragnarök.