Hod (or Höðr) is the blind Norse god of darkness and winter, Odin's son, and the unwitting killer of his beloved brother Baldr, orchestrated by Loki, a pivotal tragedy leading to Ragnarök. He's often depicted as innocent and gullible due to his blindness, a tragic figure whose accidental act brings doom, though some tales portray him as a powerful warrior, highlighting themes of fate, deception, and inevitable cosmic cycles.

Key Characteristics & Role:
Blindness: A defining trait, symbolizing vulnerability and darkness.
Twin Brother: To Baldr, the god of light and beauty, creating stark contrast.
Tragic Figure: His accidental killing of Baldr with a mistletoe dart (guided by Loki) is central to Norse myth.
Associated with Darkness: Represents the harshness of winter and the forces opposing light.
Consequences: His act sets in motion events leading to Ragnarök, the end of the world.

The Story of Baldr's Death: Baldr has dreams of his own death, prompting his mother Frigg to make everything swear not to harm him, except mistletoe. Loki discovers this secret and tricks the blind Hodr into throwing a mistletoe-tipped dart at Baldr during a divine game. The dart strikes Baldr, killing him, plunging the gods into sorrow. Odin's son Vali is born to avenge Baldr, and kills Hodr in retribution.

Symbolism: Hod's story explores fate, deception, and the complex, often tragic relationships among the gods, symbolizing how innocence and darkness can bring about destruction. He embodies the cyclical nature of Norse myth, where even good can be destroyed, paving the way for new beginnings (as both he and Baldr return after Ragnarök).