The mightiest dwarf according to Völuspá.
Motsognir (Old Norse Mótsognir) is named in Völuspá 10 as the mightiest of all dwarfs. Gylfaginning 14 confirms his status as the foremost dwarf, created by the gods from Ymir's flesh. He is presented as a chieftain among the dwarfs, the one who ordered their society.
The etymology of the name is disputed. Suggestions include 'the one who meets with force' and 'the angry sucker', but no interpretation has gained consensus. Motsognir does not appear in any independent narrative and is attested only in the dwarf catalogue and in Snorri's commentary.
Sources in the Eddas
- Völuspá 10
- Motsognir is named as the mightiest dwarf in Dvergatal.
- Gylfaginning 14
- Snorri names Motsognir as the foremost dwarf.
Interpretive traditions
A What we know
Motsognir is the mightiest dwarf according to Völuspá 10 and Gylfaginning 14.
B What we think we know
The name's etymology is disputed and lacks consensus among scholars.
C What we do not know
Motsognir's possible role in older mythological tradition is entirely unknown.