Who is the guardian of the rainbow bridge and gates of the gods?

• A. Odin
• B. Heimdall
• C. Loki
• D. Thor

Answer: (B)

Heimdall guards the rainbow bridge, Bifröst, which serves as the gateway between Asgard and the worlds beyond. He is described as the watchful sentinel with extraordinary senses—so keen that he can hear the grass grow—and he keeps vigil at the edge of Asgard from the fortress of Himinbjorg. His job is to monitor who comes to the gates of the gods and to sound the Gjallarhorn if danger approaches, signaling the gods to prepare. This combination of vigilance, location, and the horn that marks his role makes him the natural guardian of the rainbow bridge and the gates of the gods. Odin rules as the Allfather and has his own pervasive leadership, while Loki and Thor have different roles—neither is the gatekeeper of Bifröst.