Hoder

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