Game of Thrones features numerous fictional languages, and one of them played an important role in the latest episode of the show's sixth season.
Major spoilers for Game of Thrones season six below!
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Melisandre recited a prayer or spell in the fictional language of High Valyrian during the final moments of the episode, an incantation meant to bring Jon Snow back to life. It wasn't exactly clear what she was saying (there were no subtitles) as she burned bits of Jon's hair and cleaned his wounds.
More than a few fans were curious about what exactly it was that Melisandre said, and now, the creator of the show's language is spilling the beans. According to David J. Peterson (via his Tumblr blog), Melisandre's prayer translates to, "We ask the Lord to shine his light, and lead a soul out of darkness. We beg the Lord to share his fire, and light a candle that has gone out. From darkness, light. From ashes, fire. From death, life."
It sounds just like you would expect a prayer to the Lord of Light to sound. Lo and behold, Melisandre's magic words work. Jon's life is restored, though it remains to be seen exactly how much of Jon is left after having been to the other side.
It's a prayer fans have heard briefly before, when Thoros of Myr recites the English version of the words to bring Beric Dondarrion back to life after he's killed in a duel with Sandor Clegane. That time, however, the prayer was muffled and overshadowed by the screams of Arya, making it difficult to hear what exactly was being said.
Fans managed to translate Melisandre's words even before Peterson offered his definitive translation, as shown on this Reddit thread. How user Mecho became so skilled at the fictional language is beyond us, but it sure is impressive. Perhaps more High Valyrian will appear in future episodes of the show, and if they do, we will know where to go for answers.
You can read more on how we felt about Jon's resurrection here.
