The King Who Questioned the Gods

What did the king ask the gods?

Gylfi wanted to find out why everything the gods wished for came true. Disguised as an old man, he set off for Asgard. The gods foresaw his journey and prepared illusions to fool his eyes.

The king saw a tall hall with golden shields covering its roof. At the doorway, a man was tossing 7 short swords into the air at once. The king introduced himself as Gangleri. Inside the hall stood 3 thrones, each higher than the last.

Har sat on the lowest throne, Jafnhar on the next, and Thridi at the very top. Har ordered the king to stand while asking his questions. Those answering would sit. So began a story told through the king’s questions and their answers.

When he asked which god was highest in rank or oldest, the answer was Allfather. They said he had 12 names in the old Asgard. Those who lived good lives would go to Gimle or Vingolf. The wicked would go to Hel, and from there down to Niflhel, the 9th world below.

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