**Njord: The Seafarer’s Guardian**
**Full Name:** Njord, also known as Njörðr in Old Norse.
**Origin/Culture:** Njord originates from Norse mythology, which encompasses the myths, legends, and religious beliefs of the Scandinavian peoples, including the Vikings.
**Domain/Role:** Njord is the god of the sea, winds, fishing, wealth, and fertility. He governs over all aspects of the sea, from its bountiful resources to the safety of those who travel upon its waves.
**Symbol/Iconography:** Symbols commonly associated with Njord include ships, the sea itself, and fishing nets. A ship’s steering oar is also a potent symbol of his guardianship over sailors.
**Mythology/Stories:** One of the most notable myths involving Njord is his marriage to the giantess Skadi. Their marriage was troubled from the start due to their love for different realms—Skadi loved the mountains, while Njord was bound to the sea.
**Family Relationships:** Njord is a member of the Vanir, a group of gods associated with fertility, wisdom, and the ability to see the future. He is the father of Freyr and Freyja, two important deities, by his sister (whose name is not given in the sources).
**Attributes/Qualities:** Njord is known for his ability to calm the waters and winds, making him a protector of sailors and fishermen. His association with wealth, particularly in the form of gold, is also significant.
**Depictions/Representations:** Njord is often depicted as a robust, middle-aged man with a beard, dressed in seafaring attire. Sometimes, he may be shown holding a ship’s oar or a net, emphasizing his dominion over the sea.
**Worship/Temples:** Evidence of Njord’s worship includes place names and historical texts. While specific temples dedicated to Njord are not well-documented, he was undoubtedly revered in coastal areas, where offerings might be made to ensure safe passage and bountiful catches.
**Symbols/Animals:** The ship and the fish are potent symbols associated with Njord, representing his domain over the sea and its creatures.
**Historical Influence:** Njord’s influence extends into the naming of locations and possibly practices at sea, reflecting the importance of the ocean in Norse culture.
**Sacred Texts:** Njord is mentioned in several key Norse mythological texts, including the Poetic Edda and the Prose Edda, which are critical sources for understanding Norse mythology.
**Evolution:** Over time, Njord’s role as a sea deity may have merged or been conflated with that of other gods, reflecting changes in worship and societal priorities.
**Modern Influence:** Njord’s legacy continues in modern culture, particularly in literature, music, and art inspired by Norse mythology. His image as a protector of sailors remains relevant.
**Titles/Epithets:** Njord is sometimes called “Lord of the Vanir” or “God of the Wind and Sea.”
**Sacred Sites:** While specific sacred sites dedicated solely to Njord are scarce, coastal areas and natural harbors might be considered places of reverence.
**Attributes/Artifacts:** The ship’s steering oar represents Njord’s ability to guide and protect those at sea.
**Allies/Adversaries:** Njord’s relationships with other deities are generally harmonious, especially within the Vanir. His marriage to Skadi represents a link between the Vanir and the Jotnar (giants).
**Cosmology:** In the Norse creation myth, Njord is part of the complex interplay of gods, giants, and other beings that shape the cosmos.
**Philosophical/Religious Significance:** Njord embodies the Norse understanding of the sea’s dual nature—both life-giving and perilous. His worship reflects the importance of balance and respect for the natural world.
**Power Score:** Considering Njord’s control over the sea, winds, and his association with wealth and fertility, his power score might be around 150 out of 200. His domain is crucial for the Norse way of life but is more specialized compared to the chief gods like Odin or Thor.
**Weapons/Tools:** Njord’s primary “weapon” is his mastery over the elements of his domain—commanding the winds and the waves. He doesn’t typically wield a physical weapon in myths.
**Score/Attack Points:** Given the importance of the sea and wind in Norse culture and the lack of a physical weapon, Njord’s “attack” points, representing his influence and power, might be around 35 out of 50. His strength lies more in protection and providing than in battle.