In Norse mythology, Farbauti, whose name translates to "cruel striker" in Old Norse, is a jotunn (giant) and the husband of Laufey. He is primarily known as the father of Loki, one of the most complex and well-known figures in Norse mythology. There is also a possibility that Farbauti is the father of Helblindi and Byleistr, although this relationship is not as widely recognized.
Farbauti's character and name are thought to have been inspired by natural phenomena, particularly those associated with the appearance of wildfire or lightning. His role in Norse mythology is relatively limited compared to figures like Loki, but he is mentioned in several Old Norse sources, including the Prose Edda by Snorri Sturluson and the poetry of Viking Age skalds.
In the Prose Edda's Gylfaginning, it is stated that Loki is the son of the jotunn Fárbauti and that his mother is either Laufey or Nál. The ambiguity in his mother's identity is notable in Norse mythology, as there are variations in different sources.
Farbauti is also referenced in Skaldskaparmal, where Loki is described as "Farbauti's terribly sly son." Additionally, in Haustlong, a poem by the 10th-century skald Þjóðólfr of Hvinir, Loki is referred to as "Farbauti's son."
While Farbauti himself may not be a well-explored character in Norse mythology, his role as the father of Loki, the trickster god, makes him a significant figure in the Norse pantheon, as Loki's actions and influence are central to many mythological stories and events.
If, as according to Axel Kock, Farbauti as "dangerous striker" refers to "lightning", the figure would appear to be part of an early nature myth alluding to wildfire (Loki) being produced by lightning (Farbauti) striking dry tinder such as leaves (Laufey) or pine needles (Nal). Though not directly attested in any original source, scholars have considered Loki's brothers Helblindi and Byleistr to also be sons of Farbauti. However, their exact role in the presumably ancient mythic complex surrounding Loki's family remains largely unclear.