The days of the week that we use in modern English have their origins in ancient Norse mythology. The Norse people, who lived in Scandinavia during the Viking Age, had a rich and intricate pantheon of gods and goddesses. These deities played a central role in the Norse people’s daily lives and were believed to influence various aspects of nature, including the passage of time.
Each day of the week was named after a different Norse god or goddess, reflecting their respective attributes and powers. These names have been passed down through generations and have remained in use, albeit with some modifications, to this day.
Monday, for example, is derived from the Old English word “Monandæg,” meaning “Moon’s day.” This name originates from the Norse goddess Máni, who was believed to be the personification of the moon. Máni was revered by the Norse people for her beauty and ethereal nature, and her influence over the moon gave rise to the name Monday.
Tuesday comes from the Old English word “Tiwesdæg,” meaning “Tiw’s day.” Tiw, also known as Tyr, was a Norse god associated with war and law. He was known for his bravery and unyielding sense of justice, which made him a fitting deity to be honored on the day of the week associated with battles and legal matters.
The Origins and Meanings of Norse Weekday Names
The Norse weekday names are rooted in ancient Norse mythology and reflect the influence of Germanic and Nordic cultures. Each day of the week found in modern English has its own unique origin and meaning, which can be traced back to the gods and goddesses worshipped by the ancient Norse people.
Monday, known as “Mánadagr” in Old Norse, gets its name from the moon god, Mani. In Norse mythology, Mani was believed to be the brother of the sun goddess Sol, and he was responsible for guiding the moon across the night sky.
Tuesday, called “Týrsdagr” in Old Norse, is named after the one-handed god Tyr. Tyr was associated with war, justice, and heroic glory, and he held a prominent place in ancient Norse mythology.
Wednesday, known as “Óðinsdagr” in Old Norse, is named after the chief god Odin. Odin was considered the ruler of Asgard, the realm of the gods, and was associated with wisdom, war, and poetry.
Thursday, called “Þórsdagr” in Old Norse, is named after the god Thor, known for his strength and protection. Thor was often depicted wielding his mighty hammer, Mjölnir, and was revered as the god of thunder and storms.
Friday, known as “Freyjudagr” in Old Norse, is named after the goddess Freya. Freya was associated with love, beauty, and fertility, and she held a significant role in Norse mythology as the leader of the Valkyries.
Saturday, called “Laugardagr” in Old Norse, is named after the bathing and relaxation rituals that were traditionally performed on this day. In Norse culture, Saturday was considered a day of rest and cleansing before the start of the new week.
Sunday, known as “Sunnudagr” in Old Norse, gets its name from the sun goddess, Sol. Sol was believed to pull the sun across the sky with her chariot, bringing light and warmth to the world.
These Norse weekday names offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich mythology and cultural beliefs of the ancient Norse people. They serve as a reminder of the deep reverence and worship given to the gods and goddesses who played such vital roles in their daily lives.
The Norse Mythology Influence on Weekday Names
The names of the days of the week are deeply rooted in Norse mythology. The Norse gods and goddesses had a significant influence on the culture and language of the ancient Germanic people. As a result, many of the weekday names we use today actually originated from the names of these deities.
Monday: The name “Monday” comes from the Old English word “Monandæg,” which means “Moon’s day.” This name is derived from the Norse god Máni, who was associated with the moon. In Norse mythology, Máni was believed to symbolize the passage of time and had a close connection to the moon.
Tuesday: The name “Tuesday” comes from the Old English word “Tiwesdæg,” which means “Tiw’s day.” Tiw is the Old English form of the Norse god Tyr, who was associated with warfare and justice. In Norse mythology, Tyr was known for his bravery and self-sacrifice, making him an important deity in the Viking culture.
Wednesday: The name “Wednesday” comes from the Old English word “Wodnesdæg,” which means “Wodan’s day.” Wodan is the Old English form of the Norse god Odin, who was the chief god of the Norse pantheon. Odin was considered the god of wisdom, war, and death. He was highly revered by the Vikings and had a significant influence on their religious practices.
Thursday: The name “Thursday” comes from the Old English word “Þunresdæg,” which means “Þunor’s day.” Þunor is the Old English form of the Norse god Thor, who was associated with thunder, lightning, and strength. Thor was one of the most popular Norse gods and was seen as the protector of humanity against the forces of evil.
Friday: The name “Friday” comes from the Old English word “Frigedæg,” which means “Frigg’s day.” Frigg is the Old English form of the Norse goddess Frigg, who was the queen of the gods and the goddess of love, marriage, and motherhood. She was highly respected and was often associated with fertility and domestic life.
Saturday: The name “Saturday” comes from the Latin word “dies Saturni,” which means “day of Saturn.” Although not directly influenced by Norse mythology, the planet Saturn was associated with the ancient Roman god of agriculture and time, who shared similarities with the Norse god Freyr. Freyr was associated with fertility, agriculture, and prosperity.
Sunday: The name “Sunday” comes from the Old English word “Sunnandæg,” which means “Sun’s day.” This name, like Monday, is not directly influenced by Norse mythology. However, in Norse mythology, the sun was personified as the goddess Sól. She was believed to ride her chariot across the sky, bringing light and warmth to the world.
In conclusion, the Norse gods and goddesses left a lasting impact on the names of the days of the week. Their stories and symbolism continue to be reflected in the languages and cultures that have been influenced by Norse mythology.
The Seven Days in Norse Mythology
In Norse mythology, the seven days of the week are named after gods and goddesses who play important roles in the Norse pantheon. Each day is associated with a specific deity, representing different aspects of life and nature. Here are the origins and meanings of the Norse weekday names:
- Monday (Mánadagr): Named after the moon goddess Máni, who is associated with the cycles of the moon.
- Tuesday (Týsdagr): Named after the god Tyr, the brave and noble god of war and justice.
- Wednesday (Óðinsdagr): Named after the Allfather Odin, the chief god and ruler of Asgard.
- Thursday (Þórsdagr): Named after the thunder god Thor, known for his immense strength and protection against evil.
- Friday (Freyjudagr): Named after the fertility goddess Freya, associated with love, beauty, and prosperity.
- Saturday (Laugardagr): Named after the goddess Frigg, the queen of Asgard and wife of Odin.
- Sunday (Sunnudagr): Named after the sun goddess Sunna, who brings light and warmth to the world.
These names reflect the importance of gods and goddesses in Norse culture and their influence on everyday life. The Norse weekday names continue to be used in modern Scandinavian languages, keeping the Norse mythological traditions alive.
Monday: The Day of the Moon
Monday, as its name suggests, is derived from the Old English word “Monandæg,” which means “Moon’s day.” The name Monday comes from the association of this day with the celestial body that has captured the fascination of humans for centuries, the Moon.
In Norse mythology, the Moon was represented by the goddess Máni, who was believed to ride across the sky in a chariot, pulling the Moon behind her. She was considered to be the brother of the Sun, known as Sól, and together they were the children of Mundilfari, a giant.
The Moon has always held a special place in human culture and has had a significant influence on various aspects of life, including astrology, navigation, folklore, and religious practices. It has been associated with femininity, intuition, and emotion. The Moon’s phases have been observed and utilized by different cultures to mark the passage of time and the cycles of nature.
Monday, being the day associated with the Moon, is often considered a day of calmness, introspection, and reflection. It allows us to connect with our emotions and inner selves and provides an opportunity to recharge and find balance in our lives.
Throughout history, the Moon has inspired many myths, legends, and artistic creations, as well as influenced human behavior and beliefs. The connection between Monday and the Moon reminds us of the power and beauty of this celestial body and encourages us to embrace the qualities it represents.
Fun fact: The Moon is the Earth’s only natural satellite and plays a crucial role in stabilizing our planet’s rotation and tides.
Tuesday: The Day of Týr
Tuesday, the second day of the week, is named after Týr, the Norse god of law and heroic glory. Týr, also known as Tīwaz in Old English and Tiwas in Old High German, was highly revered by the ancient Norse and Germanic people.
Týr was a courageous and just god, associated with war, justice, and the upholding of oaths. He was often depicted as a one-handed god, having sacrificed his right hand to bind the ferocious wolf Fenrir, a son of the trickster god Loki. This act of self-sacrifice demonstrated Týr’s bravery and willingness to uphold the law, even at great personal cost.
The day Tuesday, or “Týr’s day,” was considered an auspicious day for legal matters and battles. It was believed to be a day when justice could be sought and victory would favor the righteous. Warriors would invoke Týr’s name and seek his favor before heading into battle, hoping to channel his courage and sense of justice.
Interestingly, the planet Mars is associated with Tuesday in many languages and cultures. Mars, known for its reddish hue, was seen as a symbol of Týr’s association with war and battle.
Today, while the name Tuesday has lost much of its original Norse connotations, it still serves as a reminder of the ancient deity Týr and his influence on the understanding of justice, honor, and bravery.
Fun fact: In Spanish, Tuesday is called “Martes,” derived from the Latin “Dies Martis,” meaning “day of Mars,” further emphasizing the connection between Tuesday and the god of war.
Sources:
- Norse Mythology: A Guide to the Gods, Heroes, Rituals, and Beliefs by John Lindow
- The Poetic Edda translated by Carolyne Larrington
Wednesday: The Day of Odin
Wednesday, also known as Odin’s Day, is named after the Norse god Odin. In Old Norse, the word for Wednesday is “Óðinsdagr,” which translates to “Odin’s day.” Odin was the chief god of the Norse pantheon and ruler of Asgard, the realm of the gods.
Odin was associated with many aspects of life, including war, wisdom, poetry, and knowledge. He was often depicted as an old man with a long beard, wearing a wide-brimmed hat and cloak. Odin was known for his wisdom and his ability to foretell the future. According to myth, he gave up one of his eyes in exchange for a drink from the Well of Wisdom.
Wednesday is considered a day of transformation and self-discovery. It is a day to seek knowledge, explore new ideas, and embrace change. In Norse mythology, Odin was a seeker of wisdom and knowledge, often traveling the world in search of hidden truths.
On this day, we can honor Odin by embarking on our own quests for knowledge and wisdom. We can engage in activities that expand our minds and challenge our beliefs. Whether it’s reading a thought-provoking book, participating in a stimulating discussion, or pursuing a new hobby, Wednesday is a day to embrace the spirit of Odin and strive for personal growth.
So, on this Odin’s Day, let us embrace the wisdom and curiosity of Odin and embark on our own journeys of self-discovery. May we seek knowledge, embrace change, and grow as individuals.
Thursday: The Day of Thor
Thursday, also known as Thor’s day, gets its name from the Norse god Thor. In Old English, the day was called “Þunresdæg” or “Thunor’s day,” indicating its connection to the god of thunder and storms.
Thor was one of the most popular and powerful gods in Norse mythology. He was depicted as a strong and muscular god with red hair and a red beard. Thor was known for his bravery, strength, and fierce loyalty. He was the protector of both humans and gods, and his main weapon was his mighty hammer, Mjölnir.
According to Norse mythology, Thor would ride across the sky in a chariot pulled by two goats, Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr. The sound of his chariot wheels rolling across the sky would create thunder, and the flashes of light would be his strikes with Mjölnir.
Thursday was considered a day dedicated to Thor, and people would pray to him for protection, strength, and good luck. Many Viking warriors especially worshipped Thor, as they believed he would guide them to victory in battle.
Even today, the connection between Thursday and Thor can still be seen in various languages. In Scandinavian languages, Thursday is called “Torsdag” or “Thor’s day.” Similarly, in the Germanic languages, the day is named after Thor, such as “Donnerstag” in German and “Donderdag” in Dutch.
So, next time you’re enjoying a Thursday, remember that it is named after the mighty god Thor, who symbolized strength, protection, and bravery in Norse mythology.
Friday: The Day of Frigg
Friday, also known as Frigga’s Day, is named after Frigg, the goddess of love, marriage, and destiny in Norse mythology. Frigg was highly respected and was considered to be the queen of the Aesir gods.
In Norse mythology, Frigg was known for her wisdom and foresight. She had the ability to see the future but kept her knowledge to herself, often weaving destinies and shaping the outcomes of events. Frigg was also associated with fertility, protection, and home. She was seen as a loving and caring figure, often working to ensure the well-being of her family and loved ones.
Friday was seen as a day of love and romance, perhaps because of the association with Frigg, the goddess of love. Many couples would choose to get married on this day to invoke Frigg’s blessings for a happy and prosperous union.
Friday is also associated with Freya, another important goddess in Norse mythology. Freya was the goddess of beauty, love, and fertility. She was often associated with passion and desire. It is believed that the association of Friday with love and romance may also be due to Freya’s influence.
Today, Friday is considered the end of the workweek and the beginning of the weekend in many cultures. It is a day to relax, unwind, and spend time with loved ones, just as Frigg and Freya would have encouraged.
Saturday: The Day of Saturn
Saturday, the seventh day of the week, gets its name from the planet Saturn. In Norse mythology, Saturday is associated with the god Saturn (also known as Sæterndæg in Old English), who represents agriculture, time, and the cycle of life.
Saturn is known as the god of agriculture and harvest in Roman mythology, and his influence over Saturday can be seen in the significance of this day. In ancient times, it was believed that the position of the planets affected various aspects of life, including the days of the week.
The association between Saturn and Saturday can also be seen in various folklore and traditions. For example, some European countries consider Saturday to be an auspicious day for activities such as planting crops, tending to the land, or celebrating harvest festivals.
Furthermore, Saturday is often regarded as a day of rest and leisure in many cultures, stemming from the belief that Saturn was a god who appreciated relaxation and indulgence. It is a day to unwind, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy the simple pleasures in life.
Overall, Saturday holds great significance in Norse mythology and various cultures around the world due to its association with the god Saturn. Whether it is regarded as a day of rest, a day for agricultural activities, or a day for celebrating the harvest, Saturday remains an important day in the weekly calendar.
Sunday: The Day of the Sun
Sunday, derived from the Old English word “sunandæg”, literally means “day of the sun.” It is the first day of the week and is associated with the Sun in various cultures and mythologies.
In Norse mythology, Sunday is known as “Sunnudagr”, which is also the name of the Sun goddess, Sol. She rides across the sky in her chariot pulled by divine horses, and her light and warmth fill the world. Sunday represents the power, warmth, and life-giving energy of the Sun.
In ancient times, Sunday was a sacred day and was dedicated to various Sun gods such as Helios in Greek mythology and Ra in Egyptian mythology. It was believed that the Sun gods brought light, fertility, and prosperity to the world, and Sunday was a day to honor and worship them.
Throughout history, Sunday has held great importance in different cultures. In Christianity, it is considered the day of rest and worship, as it is believed to be the day of Jesus Christ’s resurrection. Many Christian rituals and traditions are associated with Sunday, such as attending church services, family gatherings, and enjoying leisure activities.
Today, Sunday is often seen as a day for relaxation and recreation. It is a time to unwind, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy activities such as going for walks, picnics, or engaging in hobbies. It is a day to rejuvenate and recharge, just as the Sun gives energy and vitality.
Overall, Sunday is a day that symbolizes the power, warmth, and vitality of the Sun. It is a day to appreciate the beauty of the natural world and the light it brings to our lives.