Hel definitions
| Word backwards | leH |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | Hel has one syllable: Hel |
| Plural | The plural of the word "Hel" is "Helheim." |
| Total letters | 3 |
| Vogais (1) | e |
| Consonants (2) | h,l |
Hel, in Norse mythology, is a figure who rules over the realm of the same name, which is also called Helheim. She is the daughter of the trickster god Loki and the giantess Angrboða. Hel is often depicted as half alive and half dead, with one side of her body appearing normal and the other side decaying.
The Realm of Hel
Helheim is the underworld in Norse mythology where those who did not die in battle or were not chosen to reside in Valhalla are said to go. It is a realm of cold darkness, reserved for those who die of sickness or old age. The entrance to Helheim is typically described as being guarded by the monstrous dog Garm.
Hel's Role
Hel is a complex and ambiguous figure in Norse mythology. She is often seen as a fair and just ruler, welcoming those who come to her realm with hospitality. However, she is also seen as a harsh and merciless goddess, particularly in her role as the ruler of the dead. Hel has the power to determine the fate of souls and is said to be implacable in her judgments.
Death and the afterlife were major concerns for the Vikings, and Hel was an important figure in their beliefs about the underworld. While she is not typically depicted as an evil figure, she represents the finality of death and the idea that everyone, regardless of their actions in life, must face her judgment.
Hel remains a fascinating and enigmatic figure in Norse mythology, embodying both the comforting idea of a fair afterlife and the frightening reality of death and the unknown. Her realm of Helheim continues to capture the imaginations of those interested in Norse mythology and the ancient beliefs of the Vikings.
Hel Examples
- She gazed up at the bright yellow hel in the sky.
- The hel of the hammer was perfectly balanced.
- He used the hel of the boat to steer through the rough waters.
- The chef used a hel of garlic in the pasta sauce.
- The helicopter flew overhead with its blades spinning loudly.
- She felt the hel of his hand on her shoulder as he comforted her.
- The doctor used a hel to listen to her heartbeat.
- The mermaid brushed her long, flowing hel.
- The warrior wore a hel made of strong metal into battle.
- He enjoyed the feeling of the hel of the guitar under his fingers.