Understanding Valar Dohaeris: Beyond a Greeting in Westeros

Introduction

Valar Dohaeris and Valar Morghulis are two phrases that appear prominently throughout the fictional world of A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin, and their series Game of Thrones. These phrases are not just greetings but carry profound cultural and philosophical meanings within the lore of these works.

Meaning and Context

Valar Morghulis translates to All men must die. This phrase is often used as a salutation, highlighting the harsh realities of life and the inevitability of death. It serves as a recognition of the interconnectedness of all people, bound by the cycle of life and death. Similarly, Valar Dohaeris translates to All men must serve. This phrase is the natural response to Valar Morghulis, emphasizing the idea that service and duty are equally important in the face of mortality.

These phrases are more than mere greetings. They are cultural expressions that reveal the core values and beliefs of the characters who use them. The recognition of life and death, coupled with the service and duty that follow, are key themes in the lore of Westeros and Essos.

Beyond Greetings: A Cultural Expression

These phrases are deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the world of Game of Thrones. Just as travelers in a foreign land might greet each other in their native tongue, characters from different regions of Westeros and Essos use these phrases to recognize and respect each other's customs and beliefs.

Imagine being in a foreign country where the customs and greetings are different. If you encounter someone from your own country, it is only natural to greet them in your own cultural manner. Similarly, in the world of Game of Thrones, characters from the Free Cities and other regions use these phrases to establish a connection and show respect.

Symbols of Unity and Acknowledgment

The use of Valar Dohaeris following Valar Morghulis is a symbol of unity and acknowledgment. It is akin to saying Thank You and then receiving You're welcome. Just as it would be strange to say Thank You and not respond, it would be peculiar not to respond with Valar Dohaeris after Valar Morghulis.

Customs of the Faceless Men

For the Faceless Men, an order of assassins headed by the Many-Faced God, the phrases hold a deeper significance. Their custom is to say Valar Morghulis when they take a life, echoing the idea that all men must die. Then, they respond with Valar Dohaeris, acknowledging the role of the assassin in serving the Many-Faced God and fulfilling the duty of eliminating those who do not deserve to live.

Practical Application and Meaning

The phrases also have practical applications in the world of Game of Thrones. For instance, in the episode where Arya Stark shows her coin to a Bravos ship captain, he says Valar Morghulis, prompting her to respond with Valar Dohaeris. This not only establishes her legitimacy and purpose but also grants her entry to the city docks, allowing her to travel further.

These phrases are not just ritualistic words but life-affirming affirmations that reflect the existential nature of life and death. They serve as a reminder of the cycle of life, the inevitability of death, and the significance of service and duty.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Valar Dohaeris is more than just a greeting. It is a deep cultural expression that embodies the core values of the world of Game of Thrones. From recognizing the untimely end of life to acknowledging the role of service and duty, these phrases provide a profound insight into the themes of the series. Whether it is a customary greeting in Westeros or a reminder of the cycle of life and death, understanding Valar Dohaeris is essential for grasping the essence of the Game of Thrones universe.