Tiwaz's Journey: Before Thor - Before Odin - TEIWAZ LIVES

Posted on April 4th, 2024

In the intricate mosaic of Norse mythology, few figures are as compelling and enigmatic as Tiwaz.

Known also by the name Tyr, this deity epitomizes the zenith of valor, law, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of justice.

Through Tiwaz's legend, we are transported into a world where gods and mortals alike navigate the tumultuous landscapes of honor, duty, and destiny.

His narrative is not a mere "poem" from a bygone era but a thought provoking story woven with themes of bravery, selflessness, and the eternal quest for righteousness.

In this article we delve deep into the heart of Norse mythology to uncover the layers of Teiwaz's character, his profound impact on Norse cosmology, and the timeless lessons his stories impart to us across the ages.

The Story of Tiwaz

Tiwaz, known in the annals of Norse mythology as Tyr, and later via the reconstructed Proto-Germanic name, became Tîwaz or Teiwaz. A name which now embodies the highest ideals of courage and sacrifice. His story is central to understanding the Norse cosmic order.

A god of war and justice, Tiwaz's most famous legend involves the binding of Fenrir (aka Fenris) the monstrous wolf destined to bring about Ragnarok, the end of the world. The source of this story comes from a collection of writings about Norse mythology called the Poetic Edda, known in several different manuscripts from the 13th and 14th century. The writings were complied into the Prose Edda by law speaker and poet Snorri Sturluson in Iceland, who was surprisingly a Christian. He featured the passages of Tyr (Tiwaz) and the binding of Fenrir (Fenris).

Originally hailed for preserving old Norse mythologies about the world's creation and it's end in Ragnarök, it became more a treatise on how to write skaldic poetry instead. The Poetic Edda is a collection of 31 "poems" of unknown origin, and is said to be challenging to read if one is not well versed in Norse mythology.

Here is a passage from Chapter 34 of the Gylfaginning in the Prose Edda:

"....Then the gods took the wolf, and led him to the island, and bade him try his strength against this bond. Fenrir, perceiving that their design was to bind him, suspected it was made with art and fraud, so he would not let it be put upon him, unless one of the gods put his hand in his mouth as a pledge that this was done in good faith.

Then Tyr put his right hand into the wolf's mouth, but when Fenrir found himself unable to break the chain he bit off Tyr's hand, whence Tyr is one-handed, and is not called a reconciler of men."

A much more detailed story awaits, and Norse mythology knowledge is not required to read it, nor is ancient Greek knowledge required. Although the entire epic story is not yet available, you can read the first two issues of Teiwaz Lives! Simply click on Books in the menu above.

Teiwaz is a young demigod living in the bronze age, raised by a mysterious old hermit named Futhark. The demigod is known as Caelus who uses his superior physical prowess in fights to make money as he is unaware of his true origins. His brash young arrogance leads to servitude in the arena of Lord Acadius as a fight slave. However, his companions have arrived with the aid of legendary warrior Achilles during his voyage to the Trojan war. Are fifty myrmidon and Achilles enough to help free Caelus from the army of Acadius? Both great warriors must accept their destinies as Caelus also unravels a strange mystery within the arena. Can he solve it before it is too late? At this point, the epic drama is FAR FROM OVER. Read the first two issues of the epic graphic novel series Teiwaz Lives! by author John Pagan, and follow where this story leads.

Who is Tiwaz?

As mentioned previously, the Poetic Edda is a collection of 31 "poems" of unknown origin. Can these "poems" actually have a historic basis lost in antiquity? What if the Tyr binding Fenrir passage was an actual incident that occurred long before the known Norse history. Perhaps it goes back to bronze age Norway, perhaps even farther? Did Sumerians witness the "gods" act out certain events which, when handed down from generation to generation, became symbolized folklore, then interpreted as poems?

Famously known as the original Sumerian gods are the Anunnaki. They are ancient extraterrestrials said to have produced the first homosapiens by splicing their DNA with that of the human primitives of the time. (For more info on them click this: (Anunnaki ) Could Tyr have been an Anunnaki "god", or perhaps a demigod creation of the Anunnaki? An Anunnaki connection is an intriguing speculation, in academia it is probably considered unlikely, and in Teiwaz Lives! a loose connection is a distinct possibility. But for now, Tyr remains a part of Norse mythology.

The Tiwaz rune is one of the oldest in the Futhark runes, unchanged from ancient Bronze-age carvings.

Tiwaz embodies a complex character within Norse mythology, transcending the typical war deity archetype. Originating from ancient lore, his figure is steeped in the virtues of courage, law, and just leadership. Unlike gods who thrive in the mere chaos of battle, such as Odin and or Thor, Tiwaz represents the structured order and moral backbone necessary for resolving conflicts. Tiwaz is also believed to have been the original "All Father", preceding Odin. However, over time, he faded into relative obscurity while Odin and Thor became more prominent.

Tiwaz's attributes extend beyond warfare, touching aspects of law, governance, and societal order. Tiwaz’s essence is that of a mediator and a protector, ensuring that actions, even in war, are conducted with honor, integrity, and fairness.

This deity’s influence over facets of life—such as justice, sacrifice, and the resolution of disputes—highlights his role not merely as a god of war but as a pillar of righteousness guiding the Norse people through the complexities of their existence.

The Role of Tiwaz in Norse Mythology

In Norse mythology, Tiwaz plays a pivotal role that extends far beyond his acts of valor and sacrifice. As the god of war and justice, his influence permeates the moral and societal structures of the Norse world. Tiwaz's willingness to sacrifice his hand to bind Fenrir underscores the profound lessons of his story: the necessity of personal sacrifice for the greater good, the importance of courage in the face of insurmountable challenges, and the embodiment of justice over personal gain.

These lessons, imparted through Tiwaz's actions, reflect the values that underpinned Norse society, emphasizing the significance of upholding justice and maintaining order through selfless acts of bravery.

Tiwaz's Rune Symbol: Meaning and Usage

Ancient rune stones were said to have their own sounds per alphabet or symbol. As the runes were transformed over time they became more than just sounds. They had magickal properties to the people who used the runes for casting. (For more information on how to cast Runes stones for divination, you can find plenty of videos via Youtube.) Because they were also being used for writing, they still held a phonetic sound as well. A certain meaning was given to each rune and could stand for an idea or an item.

There are many versions and variations of rune stones, cards, and symbols. For instance:

Anglo-Saxon Frisian Runes, Armanen Runes, Elder Futhark Runes (sometimes called the German or Viking Futhark), Gothic Rune, Medieval Runes of Healing & Magick, Northumbrian Runes, Younger Futhurk Runes, and more.

The rune symbol associated with Tiwaz, resembles a spear or arrow pointing upwards. It represents all those qualities associated with a god: strength, heroism, duty, and responsibility. It is also the 17th rune of the Elder Futhark and holds a special place within the ancient Norse tradition. The Tiwaz rune represents victory, justice, and the essence of the warrior spirit. And like the Soliwo (or Sowelu) rune, it promises success in our achievements, but does require personal sacrifice. Thus, Tiwaz is a rune of positive regulation that involves personal sacrifice to ensure a positive result.

Tiwaz also represents determination and male sexuality. It represents new challenges and new understandings. When there is a need for courage now, your victory is already assured, but only if your heart remains true. Your faith will be challenged, but truth, honesty, and justice will always be. "Make use of all the skills and wisdom you have acquired thus far."

Used historically in rituals and inscriptions, it sought to invoke the god's favor in legal matters and battles, symbolizing a plea for righteous victory or fair judgment. That is why this rune also served as a talisman for courage, guiding warriors to embody Tiwaz's valor and integrity. Today, it continues to inspire those seeking justice or resolution, bridging ancient wisdom with modern pursuits of equity and bravery.

Tiwaz in Modern Times

In modern society, where challenges loom large and the quest for justice seems unending, the story of Tiwaz—Tyr in Norse mythology—remains a beacon of valor, sacrifice, and integrity. His legacy, symbolized by his rune, inspires a timeless call to courage and selflessness amidst adversity. This ancient god’s (demigod?) principles resonate deeply, offering lessons on the importance of standing firm for what is right and the power of personal sacrifice for the greater good.

Dive into the adventure anew with "Teiwaz Lives!"—a graphic novel series that brings the legend of the Original "All Father" back into the limelight. Set across the ages, from the bronze age to a futuristic dystopia, "Teiwaz Lives!" explores the defining moments that transformed a myth into legend.

As Teiwaz stands against tyranny and chaos, embodying hope and sacrifice, his story is not just revisited but reinvigorated for today's readers, showing that even in obscurity, the virtues of the god of good endure. Indeed, Teiwaz does live!

Conclusion: The Timeless Journey of Tiwaz

In this exploration we've traversed the realms of Norse mythology to reveal the profound legacy of Tiwaz, or Tyr. His tales, embodying valor, justice, and sacrifice, resonate deeply, highlighting virtues that remain pertinent across the ages. Tiwaz’s story and symbol—a beacon of integrity and courage—inspire us to confront modern challenges with unwavering strength and selflessness.

"Teiwaz Lives!" invites readers into the epic saga, blending ancient lore with contemporary relevance. This graphic novel not only resurrects the legend of Tiwaz but also illuminates his enduring principles of good and sacrifice, offering a narrative rich with adventure and moral depth. For enthusiasts of Norse mythology and timeless tales of Greek heroism, the book "Teiwaz Lives!" is a captivating journey.

Fury in the Garden Website is proud to present this narrative, bridging mythic pasts with present quests for wisdom and virtue.

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