Norse god odin sleipnir3/2/2024 ![]() ![]() But what gives us more striking evidence is when we look at funeral processions and the way in which they are organised. There have been some connections made with Sleipnir and hobby horses alongside the steeds with more than four feet that appear in processions and parades. We can also take a deeper look at the influence of Sleipnir in processions and iconography. When we consider the wide reach of the Vikings, religious influence in this regard is not implausible. Studies of shamanism have brought forth other stories of eight-legged horses, such as those from a Buryat shaman in Mongolia. ![]() Shamanic steeds tend to vary according to the country in which the traditions are set, with horses being common in areas where they are usually used as mounts. The connection with Sleipnir makes sense in this respect as Odin is often seen as a shamanic figure, strengthening the theory. But it also spreads further than that as many traditions within shamanic cultures across the world have depicted eight-legged horses as a means of transportation across the cosmos. There are quite a few scholarly theories that explore the potential connection that Sleipnir has to shamanic practices within Norse mythology. The Influence of Sleipnirīeyond the basics of who Sleipnir is, there is a whole wealth of information that demonstrates his religious and shamanic influence in Norse Paganism as well as his potential links with other traditions and religions that span even outside of Europe and Scandinavia. While Grani is described as one of the descendants of Sleipnir, there is no surviving record of any other children or descendants of Sleipnir and so, as far as we know, Grani is the only one. Sleipnir does also have a descendant in the form of Grani, a horse that is given to the hero Sigurd by Odin in disguise. There are times when other gods ride Sleipnir, and perhaps even Valkyrie if the picture stone depictions are to be believed, but it is rare to see him with a rider that isn’t the Allfather. Odin is often seen riding Sleipnir and uses him as transportation between the Nine Worlds, which are found in the roots and branches of Yggdrasil. However, we never see him described as spooking or misbehaving, which would suggest he has a calm and gentle nature. Unfortunately, we do not get to see a great deal in terms of his temperament. He does have some clear archaeological evidence that confirms his existence within the legends, and he was described as a grey horse that is magnificent to behold. Throughout Norse myth, he is described as being the best of all horses and while he is primarily ridden by Odin there are times he rides to Hel. What made Sleipnir stand out from other horses is the fact that he was born with eight legs, making him exceptionally fast and strong. His name means The Sliding One or Slippy which perhaps adds a certain level of endearment. We invite you to learn more about this magnificent horse and the role he played across the ages. Sleipnir has a more interesting role in the myths and legends than you might think, and his connection to Norse Paganism is deeper than initially thought. But despite frequent mentions of an eight-legged horse even in modern media, his roots and stories are not explored in-depth. Every god needs a steed, and what is nobler than a horse born from a god with eight legs? Sleipnir is well-known throughout Norse mythology and even outside of it, an iconic figure who remains prominent in popular culture.
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