Study › Runes & Norse › The Einherjar
The einherjar are the warriors who fell in battle and were chosen for Odin's hall, Valhalla. Each day they fight until cut down, and each evening rise whole to feast, training for the last battle at Ragnarok.
Who are the einherjar?
The Einherjar are the honoured dead of Valhalla — warriors who fell bravely in battle and were chosen by the valkyries to join Odin's host. In his vast hall, roofed with shields and spears, they are gathered for one purpose: to fight at his side when Ragnarok comes.
A day in Valhalla
Their days are an endless rehearsal for that battle. Each morning the Einherjar arm themselves and fight until they are hewn to pieces; each evening they rise whole again to feast on the boar Saehrimnir, which is boiled and made whole daily, and to drink the mead that flows from the goat Heidrun. It is the warrior's paradise — and the reason Odin gathers the slain so hungrily, for he knows he will need every blade at the end.
They live in Valhalla, chosen by the valkyries.
Questions
What does einherjar mean?
It is usually read as "those who fight alone" or "the lone warriors".
Who chooses the einherjar?
Odin's valkyries, on the battlefield.