An Old Norse magical song or incantation delivered in a high voice.
Galdr was a form of magical practice in Old Norse society performed through song, cries, or chanted words with the intention of influencing reality. Óðinn is the mythological master of galdr and learned the art alongside seiðr.
The power of galdr was believed to reside in the vibration of the spoken or sung word. It differed from seiðr whose practice was more ecstatic and receptive. Galdr-songs could protect, harm, heal, or bind.
Attestations
- Hávamál 157-158
- Lists Óðinn's galdr-songs and their effects.