Óðinn's magical spear, forged by dwarves, that never misses its mark.
Gungnir is Óðinn's primary weapon and one of the great treasures in Norse myth. It was forged by the sons of Ívaldi and given to Óðinn by Loki. The spear always flies straight and always strikes its mark.
Óðinn hurls Gungnir over the enemy army at the start of battle, a ritual act symbolising that he dedicates them to death. The spear bears carved runes and is considered fated. It is the ultimate symbol of Óðinn's sovereignty and the initiation of war.
Attestations
- Snorri Sturluson, Skáldskaparmál, kap. 35
- Gungnir's creation and its properties as Óðinn's weapon.