Also called Alviss, All-wise.
Their story
Alvíss came to claim Thor's daughter as a bride, promised to him while Thor was away. Thor said he could have her only if he answered every question. So Alvíss told the names that gods, men, giants, elves and dwarves give to earth, sky, moon, sun, clouds, wind, sea and more. Thor kept him talking all night until the sun rose, and the dwarf was turned to stone.
Best times to give to them
- at dawn
- when learning a language
What they like being given
- learning a new word each day
- a poem using many names for one thing
How to honour them
- Learn the old Norse poetic names for sea, sky or sun, as Alvíss recited them.
- Know when a conversation has gone on long enough; the tale warns what dawn can bring.
How they can help you
- love of language
- knowledge
- knowing when to stop talking
Symbols
- the rising sun
- stone
- a word-hoard
Sources
- Poetic Edda, Alvíssmál