Syn: Guardian of Boundaries, Frigga Handmaiden

 

 

At her hall of Fensalir, Frigga, the Norse All-Mother, has twelve Handmaidens (Note 1) or ladies-in-waiting to attend to Her. Not much is known about who these Handmaidens were since the Lore is scanty about Norse Goddesses in general. Much of what is known today is by Group Verified Gnosis.

 

Syn (in brief)

As the Gatekeeper, Syn guards Frigga’s Hall. She also is the Defender at trials against things She wants to refute. Syn can be considered a Goddess of Boundaries and Justice.

 

In the Gylfaginning, Snorri Sturluson wrote, “Syn, who guards the door of the hall, and closes it against those who are not to enter. In trials she guards those suits in which anyone tries to make use of falsehood. Hence is the saying that ‘syn is set against it,’ when anyone tries to deny ought.”

 

Guarding the Doors of Fensalir, Syn sees that only those who are worthy can enter. Because of this, modern Norse Pagans will ask this Goddess to ward their homes. A complex Goddess, Syn not only guards physical boundaries but also those of society. She teaches people to say no to those who would trespass on their personal limits.

 

The saying “Syn is set against it” alludes to Syn defending the truth. By refuting false accusations, She ensures that the defendant’s case will be heard. As a Goddess of Justice, Syn both guides and protects the accused. This Goddess defends those who are involved with legal disputes.

 

As the “Goddess of Defensive Denial,” Syn ensures a fair trial. With the other Gods of Justice, Syn works to keep balance and order. For example, She makes sure that Vidar (Son of Odin), God of Revenge and Retribution does not go too far in his vengeance.

 

Working closely with Forseti, God of Justice and Reconciliation, Syn upholds fairness. Together, They resolve conflicts between Gods. While Forseti acts as the Judge, Syn is the Defense Attorney.

 

Because Syn sees that the laws are upheld for all the worlds, She is the Maintainer of Order. As the Guardian of Order and Balance, She sees that everyone is treated the same. In her role as Guardian of Boundaries, Syn ensures that people keep the ethical standards of their communities.

 

Notes:

Note 1. Saga (seer), Eir (healer), Gefjun (unmarried girls), Fulla (plenty), Sjofn (love), Lofn (forbidden love), Var (oaths), Vor (wisdom), Syn (truth), Hlin (protector), Snorta (diplomacy), Gna (travelers).