Key Info

- Most beautiful and just of the gods

- (Nearly) Unable to be harmed

- Killed by Höd due to a deception by Loki

- His death begins Ragnarok

Brief Bio

Baldr (also spelled Balder or Baldur) is a prominent god in Norse mythology, known as the god of light, beauty, and purity. He is the son of Odin and Frigg and is beloved by the other gods for his radiant appearance and peaceful nature. 

Most legends about him concern his death. Icelandic stories tell how the gods amused themselves by throwing objects at him, knowing that he was immune from harm. The blind god Höd, deceived by the evil Loki, killed Balder by hurling mistletoe, the only thing that could hurt him. 

After Balder’s funeral, the giantess Thökk, probably Loki in disguise, refused to weep the tears that would release Balder from death.

His death is a pivotal event in Norse mythology, triggering the events that lead to Ragnarök, the end of the world.