Why is Nurgle Called Papa Nurgle?
Nurgle, the Chaos God of disease, decay, and despair, is a paradoxical figure within the grim darkness of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. While his domain is one of suffering and corruption, he is often referred to as “Papa Nurgle” or “Grandfather Nurgle.” This nickname stems from his unusual, almost endearing relationship with his followers. Unlike the other Chaos Gods who demand fear and servitude, Nurgle genuinely takes delight in the work of his servants, offering them a warped form of affection and paternal care. This manifests in his jovial demeanor and his tendency to view his followers as a loving grandparent might his family, albeit one steeped in rot and plague. His “gifts” of disease and decay are not seen as punishments by his followers but rather as blessings of resilience and endurance, a twisted interpretation of a grandfather’s desire to see his offspring thrive. It’s this strange, yet consistent expression of affection that has led to the widespread use of the moniker Papa Nurgle.
Nurgle’s Twisted Affection: A Closer Look
Nurgle’s personality is the core reason behind his familial nicknames. He does not inspire fear or awe in the same way as Khorne or Tzeentch. Instead, he cultivates a sense of acceptance and belonging amongst his followers. Those who succumb to his plagues find themselves not in agony, but in a state of festering resilience. They become Nurgle’s “children,” a part of a grotesque family united by disease and decay. Nurgle, in turn, views them with a strange fondness, seeing them as living manifestations of his ideals. This affection is expressed through his jovial manner, often characterized by a booming laugh and a general sense of good cheer, despite the horrific nature of his domain. He delights in watching the “progress” of his gifts, and sees the spread of his diseases as a growth of his family.
The Paradox of Nurgle
The term “Papa Nurgle” is particularly striking because it contrasts so sharply with his nature. He is, after all, a god of disease, decay, despair, destruction, and death. Yet, his actions often betray an odd sort of benevolence within the framework of his horrific powers. He believes he is offering his followers a release from suffering, a state of eternal endurance, however twisted and painful it may seem to others. This paradox is essential to understanding Nurgle’s appeal. He doesn’t just inflict suffering, he embraces it as an integral part of life, and in doing so, he offers his followers not only resilience but a sense of purpose within his decaying embrace.
The Appeal of Papa Nurgle
The moniker “Papa Nurgle” also speaks to the appeal he holds for those who follow him. In a universe filled with endless war and suffering, Nurgle offers a disturbing form of solace. His followers, often drawn from the downtrodden and forgotten, find acceptance and belonging in his diseased embrace. They see his “gifts” not as curses, but as the ultimate sign of his affection. He is not a distant, uncaring god; he is the grandparent who celebrates their resilience despite their decaying state. This sense of kinship is the bedrock of his worship and explains the enduring appeal of “Papa Nurgle.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are some of Nurgle’s other names?
Nurgle is known by many names, including the “Plague Lord,” the “Lord of Pestilence,” the “Fly Lord,” the “Urfather,” and as “Neiglen” and “the Crow” in Norsca.
2. Is Nurgle based on any real-world deities?
Yes, Nurgle is heavily inspired by Nergal, the Mesopotamian god of plague and the underworld.
3. Who is Nurgle’s primary rival?
Nurgle’s most significant rival is Tzeentch, the Chaos God of change and manipulation. They represent opposing ideologies, with Nurgle promoting stagnation and acceptance and Tzeentch valuing change and progress.
4. Why is the number 7 significant to Nurgle?
Seven is considered Nurgle’s sacred number. This association also manifests in other ways within the Warhammer setting, such as the Imperial Fists being designated as Legion VII.
5. Is Nurgle the oldest Chaos God?
There is conflicting information on this topic. Some sources claim Khorne is the oldest, while others suggest Nurgle. According to some sources like Realm of Chaos, Nurgle is actually the third Chaos God to spring into consciousness.
6. Why are people drawn to worshipping Nurgle?
Worship of Nurgle stems from a variety of factors, including a fear of death and pain. He is also seen as offering respite from these things, even if his methods are grotesque. It provides a sense of belonging and purpose to those who feel neglected.
7. Who is Isha to Nurgle?
Isha is a goddess of rejuvenation whom Nurgle keeps captive in his realm. While it’s a twisted relationship, he adores her and sees her as a companion.
8. What is Nurgle’s relationship with his followers?
Nurgle has a unique relationship with his followers. He shows a bizarre form of affection, treating them like a loving grandfather would his family, albeit one centered on disease and decay.
9. How does Nurgle show his affection?
Nurgle expresses his affection through his jovial demeanor, laughter, and the belief that his plagues are “blessings” that grant resilience.
10. What is the appeal of Nurgle worship?
Nurgle worship appeals to those who feel downtrodden and forgotten. His acceptance and offer of a twisted form of immortality is attractive to those facing suffering and despair.
11. Is Nurgle considered a “nice guy” in the Warhammer universe?
Ironically, Nurgle is often considered the most “friendly” of the Chaos Gods. While his actions are horrific, he is the only one who seems to genuinely care about his followers, offering a bizarre sense of kinship.
12. Who was Nurgle’s most favored follower before the Plague Wars?
Before the Plague Wars, Ku’Gath the Plaguefather, a Great Unclean One, was considered Nurgle’s most favored follower.
13. Does Isha love Nurgle back?
No, Isha does not reciprocate Nurgle’s affection in any way. She is his unwilling captive.
14. Who is Nurgle’s strongest champion?
Valnir the Reaper is considered one of Nurgle’s strongest mortal followers, a semi-daemonic being resurrected by his god.
15. How does Nurgle feel about change?
Nurgle is fundamentally opposed to change. He embodies the principle of stagnation and acceptance, contrasting directly with Tzeentch, who seeks to manipulate and change everything. This is why the two are significant rivals.