I had posted this before, but it appears that some of the sources I used, though properly cited, might get me into some trouble. So, I’ll simply start anew thanks to some new information I’ve found and a new friend.
This post will not be the most informational of posts because I’m only just starting to study Asatru. What started as simply researching the things that were appearing to me on my path- and working on the project for my coven, has actually presented me with a need to study even more than just the legends and energies of the Wylde Hunt and Druidry. In order to really understand the Norse stories and even Odin’s presence in my life, I’ve found I need to sort of dig a bit deeper into Norse traditions than just the mythology.
And so I came to Asatru, also called Odinism or Heathenism- the ways of my other ancestors, the Germanic tribes of Northern Europe. Asatru is a term that means “faith in the Gods”- more specifically the Aesir of Norse and Germanic mythology.
From what I’ve read, the beliefs in regards to deities aren’t all that different. The gods are divine, yes. They are a higher power, but we don’t grovel at their feet or fear them. In Asatru, there is an emphasis on developing a working relationship with the divine, one of respect and reciprocity.
Most Asatruars (people who practice Asatru) also follow a moral code, the common one being the Nine Noble Virtues:
- Courage
- Truth
- Honor
- Fidelity
- Hospitality
- Discipline
- Industriousness
- Self-Reliance
- Perseverance
Others “virtues” have been added to the list in some groups.
The rituals vary (and as I’ve never attended one, I’ll not discuss them at length) from group to group, but almost all of them contain two elements: the blot and the sumbel. The blot is a sacrifice, traditionally of blood, though now it is far more common to use alcohol instead, to whomever you happen to be honoring or worshiping. The sumbel is a feast, to toast the gods, ancestors, or heroes being honored.
These are the links I have so far for my studies. I’m really looking forward to continuing with this and incorporating it into what I already practice with Druidry. A special thanks goes to Seth at: http://theasatrucommunity.wordpress.com/, who gave me some help with finding slightly better sources than the last copy of this I posted.
http://www.asatru-u.org/beginner/asau-beginner-outline.htm
http://www.asatru.org/heritage.php
http://theasatrucommunity.wordpress.com/
Sorry again, that this isn’t the most in-depth or informational piece on my blog. I hope to add more information on the topic as I continue my studies and personal practice, so please do look forward to that. And if anyone has any more helpful suggestions, leave them in the comments below!
Brightest Blessings,
Brenna
=) Indeed!