Hel, the Norse goddess of the underworld, is a figure shrouded in mystery and misunderstood power. As the daughter of Loki and ruler of the realm of the dead, Hel embodies themes of death, transformation, and self-acceptance. For modern practitioners, Hel offers guidance in shadow work, embracing life's dualities, and finding beauty in the unknown.
Who is Hel?
Hel presides over Helheim, the Norse underworld, where those who die of illness, old age, or without honor in battle are said to reside. She is often depicted as a half-living, half-dead being, her dual appearance symbolizing the inevitable connection between life and death.
Hel is neither evil nor cruel — she is a gatekeeper, a caretaker of souls, and a reminder that death is a natural and necessary part of existence. Her energy can be somber but transformative, helping those who seek her to confront their fears and embrace the full spectrum of their humanity.
Hel in Norse Mythology
Hel's story is intertwined with the larger myths of the Norse pantheon:
- Her Origins: Hel is one of Loki's three children with the giantess Angrboða, alongside Fenrir the wolf and Jörmungandr the world serpent. Odin cast Hel into the underworld, where she was given dominion over the dead.
- Her Realm: Helheim, often referred to simply as Hel, is a cold, misty underworld. It is not a place of torment but one of rest and reflection for the departed.
- The Binding of Fenrir: Hel plays a peripheral role in Ragnarok, as her realm is the final destination for those awaiting the end of days.
Through these myths, Hel emerges as a complex and multifaceted figure, embodying compassion, justice, and the inevitability of death.
Why Hel Resonates with Modern Practitioners
Hel's themes of transformation and self-acceptance make her a powerful guide for shadow work and spiritual growth:
- Embracing Shadow Work: Hel helps us confront the parts of ourselves that we often avoid, encouraging us to face our fears, wounds, and hidden truths.
- Life and Death Cycles: She teaches us to honor the natural cycles of life, death, and rebirth, whether through personal transformation or connecting with ancestors.
- Reclaiming Power: Hel's dual nature reminds us that strength lies in acknowledging both our light and dark sides.
Working with Hel
Modern practitioners connect with Hel for shadow work, ancestral veneration, and guidance through difficult transitions. Here are some practical ways to honor her:
- Meditation: Visualize Hel as a wise, compassionate guide, leading you through the darkness to self-awareness and healing.
- Ancestral Work: Dedicate offerings or rituals to your ancestors, honoring the connection between the living and the dead.
- Shadow Journaling: Write about the parts of yourself you struggle to accept, asking Hel for her guidance and insight.
Hel's Correspondences
Incorporating Hel's symbols into your practice can deepen your connection to her:
- Colors: Black, grey, deep blue.
- Animals: Wolves, ravens.
- Symbols: Skulls, bones, keys.
- Plants: Yew, elder.
- Runes: Hagalaz (destruction and transformation), Isa (stillness and reflection).
Creating an altar to Hel with these elements can invite her energy into your life.
Lessons from Hel
Hel's mythology offers profound lessons for modern spiritual seekers:
- Acceptance: Hel's appearance reminds us to embrace all parts of ourselves, even those we consider "ugly" or "unworthy."
- Transformation: She shows us that death and endings are opportunities for new beginnings and growth.
- Balance: Hel embodies the balance of opposites — life and death, light and dark — teaching us to honor the whole.
Ritual to Connect with Hel
Here's a simple ritual to invite Hel's guidance:
- Prepare Your Space: Decorate your altar with skulls, bones, or symbols of ancestors. Light a black candle.
- Meditation: Sit in silence and visualize a cold, misty forest where Hel awaits. Allow her to guide you through a journey of self-reflection.
- Invocation: "Hel, keeper of the underworld, guide me through the shadows. Help me to see the beauty in endings, the strength in transformation, And the wisdom in the unknown. Hail Hel!"
- Offerings: Leave small offerings of elderberries, yew branches, or bread.
- Reflect: After the ritual, journal your insights or any messages you received.
Hel in Modern Art and Culture
Hel's image as a guardian of the underworld has inspired countless artistic depictions, from haunting illustrations to modern retellings of Norse mythology. Her dual nature continues to captivate artists and spiritual seekers alike.
Hel invites us to confront the realities of life and death with courage and grace. Whether through shadow work, ancestral veneration, or personal transformation, her wisdom helps us embrace the fullness of existence.
Discover Hel Through Art and Reflection
Dive into the mysteries of Hel, Norse goddess of the underworld, with my 5-page printable coloring book set. This PDF features beautiful illustrations of Hel, journaling prompts, and mythological insights to deepen your spiritual practice.
Coloring is more than just a creative outlet — it's a powerful tool for relaxation, connecting with intuition, and creating sacred space. Let the imagery of Hel guide you toward reflection and empowerment as you add these pages to your Book of Shadows.
Start your journey today — purchase your copy and connect with Hel in a meaningful and meditative way!
Book Recommendations:
1. The Prose Edda by Snorri Sturluson
- Why It's Great: This classic work is a cornerstone of Norse mythology, offering key insights into Hel's origins and her role within the Norse cosmology. It includes vivid descriptions of Helheim and its connection to other realms in the Norse universe. For readers who want a historical and literary perspective on Hel, this is an essential starting point.
2. The Old Norse Religion in Long-Term Perspectives edited by Anders Andrén, Kristina Jennbert
- Why It's Great: This scholarly collection delves into the religious and cultural context of Norse mythology, including Hel's role in the belief systems of the Viking Age. It provides a deeper understanding of the societal views on death, the afterlife, and the underworld, making it a valuable resource for those who wish to explore Hel from an academic perspective.
If you decide to purchase any of these books through the links provided, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps me continue creating content, art, and resources for the spiritual community. Thank you for supporting my work and passion!