In Norse mythology, Hlín is a goddess associated with the goddess Frigg, as one of her handmaids. Hlín appears in a poem in the Poetic Edda, the Prose Edda, and in kennings found in skaldic poetry. Scholars frequently explain the meaning behind the goddess’s name as ‘protector’. The Prose Edda section Gylfaginning derives the name from a verb found in an Old Norse proverb: Þiaðan af er þat orðtak at sá er forðask hleinir. Scholars generally accept that the theonym Hlín derives from the verb hleina. However, the verb hleina in which the section claims a derivation is obscure (a hapax legomenon), and translators have attempted to work around it in a variety of manners, in some cases leaving the verb untranslated. Examples include the translations of Anthony Faulkes (“From this comes the saying that someone who escapes finds refuge (hleinir)”, 1995) and Jesse Byock (“From her name comes the expression that he who escapes finds hleinir [peace and quiet]”, 2005). For me, Hlin presents as the old Southern Marm.. for those old enough to remember her, think Della Reese, or Tyne Daily. Large bosomed lady over flowing with love and comfort, who wants nothing more than to pull you into her arms and squish you until all of your troubles and worries go away. The Great Consoler. Compassion, comfort, and love.. but do NOT anger her by going after one of her babies.. there will be hell to pay! She is who I turn to in times when I need comforting, a safe place to run to, someone to stroke my hair and tell me its all going to be alright.. here.. have some fresh baked pie.
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