Who is Bestla?

Mother of Gods

Bestla1

Everyone has a mother, and that includes the great god Odin. In his case, Bestla is a frost-giantess, the daughter of the powerful frost-giant Bolthorn, who married the As-man Borr and had three sons  - Odin, Vili, and Vé. She is usually shown as a tall woman with long white hair. Bestla’s older brother is the giant Mimir, whose living head lies in the well of Mimirsbrunnr. One of the moons of Saturn has been named after her.

Bestla can be called upon by mothers with difficult children – especially those who have a destiny that may seem dangerous to their parents, but which cannot be denied – and adult children who are in powerful positions but are subject to many difficulties. Bestla helps these mothers – and probably fathers as well – to step away from their worries and find some semblance of peace in their children’s wyrd. To call upon her, offer her food and drink.

Artwork by Ravenari from the Giants' Tarot.