Tanngrisnir (“Teeth-Barer”) and Tanngnjóstr (“Teeth-Grinder”) are the two magical goats that pull the chariot of Thor, the Norse god of thunder. They are among the most iconic companions of Thor and play a significant role in Norse mythology. Here’s a detailed look at them:
Physical Description
These goats are often depicted as massive and powerful, capable of pulling Thor’s chariot through the sky with ease.
They embody divine strength and endurance, symbolizing the raw and untamed power of nature.
Mythological Significance
Pulling Thor’s Chariot:
Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr are yoked to Thor’s chariot, which he rides across the sky, often accompanied by the sound of thunder as they gallop through storm clouds.
Sacrifice and Renewal:
Thor has the unique ability to eat his goats and bring them back to life the next day using his hammer, Mjolnir, as long as their bones are not broken. This cycle of sacrifice and resurrection symbolizes renewal, sustainability, and the power of divine resources.
In one tale, Thor stays with a peasant family and slaughters the goats to feed everyone. When the farmer’s son, Thjalfi, breaks one of the goat’s bones to suck the marrow, it causes one goat to be lame upon resurrection. This leads to Thjalfi and his sister Röskva becoming Thor’s servants as recompense.
Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr are essential figures in Thor’s mythology, illustrating the themes of power, renewal, and divine provision that are central to Norse cosmology.
