Hoder is a figure from Norse mythology, known as a blind god who was tragically deceived by the trickster deity Loki into killing his own brother, Balder. The name derives from Old Norse Hǫðr, which comes from hǫð meaning "battle." A direct variant of the name is Hǫðr, the original Old Norse form. Mythological Role In the Norse mythology, Hoder is a central figure in one of its most consequential tales. According to the Prose Edda and Poetic Edda, Loki, jealous of Balder's near-invincibility, crafted a spear from mistletoe—the only substance that could harm Balder—and guided Hoder's hand to throw it, killing his brother. This act foreshadows the events of Ragnarök, the end of the world. Meaning: "Battle" Origin: Old Norse via Proto-Germanic Type: Given name (mythological figure) Usage Regions: Norse mythology panel