Feb
Tyr and The People
The later myths depict Tyr sacrificing his hand so that the Fenris wolf can be bound. I believe the origins of this particular tale are much more ancient. They depict as aspect of Tyr that reflects on the greater good of the community. In the myth, Tyr “takes one for the team.” It uses drastic images to portray responsibility to the people. Tyr is the God of the good of the many.
We say that Tyr is a “war God.” Another way of saying it is “God of soldiers.” The soldier puts is safety on the line for the good of the people. War is not the only pursuit that involves the good of the people. We can easily call to mind the firemen, ambulance workers, police officers and others who take risks for the good of all. Indeed, Tyr is the God of all who serve. While he obviously connects to those whose work involves danger and courage, Tyr is also the tutelary deity for those whose service is unlikely to cause trepidation. He includes people who serve the community in other capacities. Health workers, social workers, Hazmat teams, and many municipal occupations fit the bill. Street sweepers and trash haulers also do work that serves the community. There are many more examples. When you serve the people in any capacity, you are also doing service to Tyr.
Granted that Tyr is a warrior deity. He is concerned with all aspects of the military. Tyr’s work is not limited to martial things. It extends to all endeavors whence individuals work for the good of the people. Tyr sees to the well-being of the community.
This is an aspect of Tyr that rarely seems to get mention. I know it’s cool to think of Tyr linked to warfare and warriors, but that isn’t how I think of Tyr. I put much more into the self sacrifice aspect of Tyr. I see Tyr in the father that stays home to play catch with his kids, instead of going out with friends. I see Tyr in the parent who works overtime so that his kids will have something that they need. I see Tyr in the parent who eats less so that his wife and kids will have more. The Tyr that gives up something of himself, so that others may prosper, that’s how I view Tyr.
February 23rd, 2009 at 10:41 am