Why would the Norse people pray to Loki?

Question

I heard of the myth with the trolls and the farmers' boy, but why else pray to him? Isn't he the malevolent god who just wants to get in trouble and make fun of, or torment, others? I honestly don't see why someone would pray to him unless to wish ill-will on someone else.

Answer 1

The Norse did not pray to Loki on any sort of regular basis.  Mostly they just hoped He didn't decide to be interested in them.  One myth does not prove the Norse prayed to him normally.  

Answer 2

Heilsa!

Good question.  Some folks feel called to him.  Others believe that he was not always so evil as he became at Ragnarök.  Some believe that he fulfills the role of a Trickster God.    

The answers are complex and personal.  I don't get it myself.  

Answer 3

Or to keep him appeased!