Also called Audhumla, Audumla, Auðumbla.
Their story
As the rime melted in Ginnungagap it also formed a cow, Auðhumla. Four rivers of milk ran from her udder and fed Ymir. She fed herself by licking the salty rime-stones, and as she licked, a man's hair appeared on the first day, a head on the second, and on the third a whole man, Búri, grandfather of Odin.
Best times to give to them
- at a birth
- midwinter
- when giving thanks for food
What they like being given
- milk or oat milk
- a pinch of salt
- bread
How to honour them
- Say thanks for food and those who provide it at a meal.
- Place a cow image on a creation or ancestor altar.
How they can help you
- gratitude for nourishment
- nurturing others
- slow, patient work
Symbols
- a cow
- four rivers of milk
- a salty block of ice
Found only in Snorri.
Sources
- Prose Edda, Gylfaginning 6