Highfather
| Highfather | |
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| Publication information | |
| Publisher | DC Comics |
| First appearance | The New Gods (vol. 1) #1 (February/March 1971) |
| Created by | Jack Kirby |
| In-story information | |
| Alter ego | Izaya the Inheritor |
| Species | New God |
| Place of origin | New Genesis |
| Team affiliations | New Genesis |
| Notable aliases | The All-Father |
| Abilities |
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Highfather is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Highfather is chief of the New Gods of New Genesis in the Fourth World and ruled the fictional planet.
Highfather was created by Jack Kirby and first appeared in The New Gods #1 (March 1971).
Highfather is in reality Izaya, sometimes known as Izaya the Inheritor. The name is a phonetical version of the Old Testament prophet Isaiah. Highfather thematically resembles the Greek god Zeus or the Norse god Odin (who was known as the all-father).
Darkseid uses Izaya in his scheme to seize control of Apokolips. During a raid by his uncle Steppenwolf, Darkseid appears to kill both Izaya and his wife. However, Darkseid intentionally only stuns Izaya, knowing he will seek revenge on Steppenwolf, which he does, killing him and paving the way for Darkseid's ascent to power.
In making peace with Apokolips, Izaya and Darkseid make a pact to exchange their sons. Darkseid raises Scott Free while Izaya raises Orion. Izaya manages to tame the savage Orion (to a point) and he becomes one of the greatest warriors of New Genesis, fiercely devoted to the ideals of his adoptive home. Eventually, Scott Free (Mister Miracle) escapes Apokolips (as planned by Darkseid) which breaks the pact between New Genesis and Apokolips. Izaya and Scott are reunited, though relations between the two have not always been easy.
Highfather often consults the Source, a primal energy field represented by a mysterious wall upon which are written messages which may be of use in resolving crises. Though never stated outright in the New Gods series, the Source is implied to be some form of higher power (perhaps even God), making Izaya a spiritual as well as political leader of his people. As ruler of New Genesis, he is kind, compassionate and caring, but ready to defend it from any threat.
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Wikipedia