In Norse mythology, horses represent a bridge between worlds. Odin literally rides his eight-legged horse, Sleipnir, between planes of existence. More on that later.
Considering most of us today think of horses primarily in the context of figuring out how to bet on horse racing online that’s pretty impressive.
There are thematic throughlines between Nordic equestrian notions and our modern perceptions of horses. An appreciation of beauty. Envy of their freedom and power. How did horses shape Norse mythology and change the lives of Vikings? Let’s get into it.
Why Did Vikings Value Horses So Much?
In the next few headings, we are going to zero in on some pretty spectacular stories. However, it’s important to remember that the Nordic fascination with horses was primarily practical.
Yes, they told tales about how horses pulled the sun, brought in the moon, and facilitated the delicate transition between day and night. Mostly, though, they focused on the practical necessity of horses.
They were vital for everything from transportation to agriculture. All the things we use “horsepower” for, they accomplished with equines.
Horses meant survival in harsh Nordic climates. They could pull plows through stubborn ground. They carried warriors into battle. They made trade, exploration, and daily tasks infinitely easier. Plainly put, without horses, Viking society would have struggled to expand and survive.
Like today, horses were also status symbols. Great men owned great steeds. So great, in some cases, that they insisted upon taking their horses into the afterlife with them. A practice that led to many a horse meeting the sharp end at Viking funerals.
The long and short of it is this: Vikings were fixated on horses for the simple reason that horses deserved fixation. What other animal could provide such a robust blend of utility and convenience?
Sleipnir: Odin’s Eight-Legged Steed
Sleipnir appears frequently in Norse mythology—maybe because his story is a party from start to finish. Sleipnir comes into existence after Loki transforms himself into a mare and seduces the giant Svadilfari’s stallion.
Nine months later, Sleipnir is born. With eight legs.
The extra appendages turn out to be to everyone’s benefit. Sleipnir can gallop on land, air, and water with equal ease, even crossing Bitfrost, the famous rainbow bridge.
Sleipnir winds up being Odin’s horse. The “All Father,” (as he is called) can ride his eight-legged steed between worlds. Something he does to great effect in several key Nordic stories.
How do you think Sleipnir would fare at the Kentucky Derby?
War and Death
War and death. You’ll find plenty of both in Norse mythology. Horses, naturally enough, play a central role in many battlefield scenarios. They are ridden in magnificent fashion by Valkyries who can use them to travel on land, across the sea, and even on air.
For those who don’t know, Valkyries serve as something of a spiritual taxi service. They spread out across battlefields searching for the best and bravest soldiers who have fallen. Those who are worthy get swept up and carried off to Valhalla—actually a hall in the Nordic afterlife. There they feast in the company of Odin while they wait for Ragnarok.
Horses were also sometimes woven into funeral services—though in less than pleasant ways. Sacrificed with the fatal thrust of a sharp knife. This was so that the person who died would have safe passage into the afterlife.
The Cosmic Horses: Sun and Moon Chargers
Árvakr and Alsviðr pull the sun’s chariot across the sky. Their names mean “Early Waker” and “All Swift.” If you’ve ever sat around wondering how the sun moves across the sky throughout the day, thank these two.
The pair of equines are piloted by a goddess named Sol. She drives the chariot while a wolf chases her. They do this all day, at which point wolf and goddess pause with a friendly farewell. Maybe something along the lines of: Same time tomorrow?
It’s important to remember that, in Norse mythology, horses are more than just animals. They are bridges between worlds. They offer transition. Between life and death, sure. Also, more common transitions. The boundary between day and night.
Some Things Never Change
Horses as celestial conduits. Supernatural forces that have the ability to move freely between planes of existence.
It’s pretty good work if you can get it.
The Vikings certainly took a more spiritual view of their equines than we do—though those who had their throats cut at Nordic funerals might wish otherwise.
They weren’t alone in their regard either. Across cultures, continents, and time, horses have played a pivotal role in how communities tell their stories, and more importantly, in how they live.
While most people today don’t think much about horses in a mystical context, we are still in awe of them as instruments of power and symbols of freedom. There is just something about these animals that transcends time and cultures.
