Also called Hraesvelg, Corpse-swallower.
Their story
Vafþrúðnismál says that at heaven's end sits a giant in eagle form called Hræsvelgr, "corpse-swallower", and from his wings comes the wind that blows over all people. Snorri repeats this, placing him at the northern edge of the sky.
Best times to give to them
- on windy days
- during storms
What they like being given
- a feather hung in the wind
- a moment standing in the wind in stillness
How to honour them
- Stand in a strong wind and remember the giant eagle the poem says sends it.
- Hang a feather or wind chime outdoors and listen to it as a reminder of the eagle at the edge of the sky.
How they can help you
- respect for weather
- reflection on death and change
Symbols
- an eagle
- wings beating at the edge of heaven
Found in only one Eddic stanza and Snorri's retelling of it.
Sources
- Poetic Edda, Vafþrúðnismál 37
- Prose Edda, Gylfaginning 18