About Norse Paganism

Norse Paganism, also known as Heathenry, is a polytheistic religion that is centered around the worship of the gods and goddesses of Norse mythology. It is a reconstructionist religion, meaning that it is based on the practices and beliefs of the ancient Norse people, as recorded in texts such as the Eddas and the Sagas. Within Norse Paganism, there are several different traditions, each with its own unique practices and beliefs. 

Asatru is the most well-known tradition of Norse Paganism, and it is focused on the worship of the Aesir gods, such as Odin, Thor, and Frigga. Asatru practitioners often follow the Nine Noble Virtues as a guide for living an honorable and virtuous life, and they celebrate the major holidays of the Norse calendar, known as blots.

Vanatru is another tradition of Norse Paganism, and it is focused on the worship of the Vanir gods, such as Freyja, Njord, and Freyr. Vanatru practitioners often follow the Vanic Virtues, which are similar to the Nine Noble Virtues but with a focus on the values and beliefs of the Vanir. They also celebrate the major holidays of the Norse calendar, as well as a number of lesser holidays known as tides, which are associated with specific Vanir deities.

Form Sed is a tradition of Norse Paganism that focuses on the worship of the Disir, or female ancestors, and the landvaettir, or land spirits. Form Sed practitioners often follow a set of guiding principles with a focus on personal responsibility and living in harmony with the natural world. They also celebrate the major holidays of the Norse calendar, as well as a number of lesser holidays known as tides, which are associated with the Disir and the landvaettir.

Anglo-Saxon Paganism is a polytheistic religion that centers around the worship of the gods and goddesses of Anglo-Saxon mythology. It is a reconstructionist religion, similar to Norse Paganism, and it is based on the practices and beliefs of the ancient Anglo-Saxon people. Anglo-Saxon Paganism has several different traditions, each with its own unique practices and beliefs. Some Anglo-Saxon Pagans follow various thews as a set of guiding principles. Anglo-Saxon Pagans also celebrate the major holidays of the Anglo-Saxon calendar, as well as a number of lesser holidays known as tides.

While each of these traditions may have some differences in their focus and practices, they are all part of the larger umbrella of Heathenry and share a common connection to the gods and goddesses of Norse mythology.

Overall, Norse Paganism is a diverse and inclusive religion, and practitioners come from a variety of backgrounds and beliefs. It is a religion that emphasizes personal responsibility, self-reliance, and living in harmony with the natural world. Followers of Norse Paganism may follow a particular tradition or may draw from a variety of different sources and practices to create their own unique path.

Norse Wicca, is a modern tradition that combines elements of Norse mythology and Wicca. It is not recognized as a traditional Norse Pagan faith, as it has been created in recent times and does not have the same historical roots as other Norse Pagan traditions such as Asatru or Vanatru. Norse Wiccans may incorporate deities, symbols, and rituals from Norse mythology into their practices, but they may also incorporate elements from other pantheons and traditions. Some Norse Wiccans may also follow a form of the Wiccan Rede, which is a code of ethics that emphasizes the importance of doing harm to none and living in balance with the natural world.

The Norse pantheon consists of several deities, each with their own unique characteristics and attributes. Odin is the All-Father and the chief god of the Aesir, the principal pantheon of Norse gods. He is associated with wisdom, magic, death, and war, and is often depicted as a one-eyed old man with a long beard. Thor is the god of thunder and the protector of the Aesir. He is known for his strength and bravery, and is often depicted with a hammer. Freya is the goddess of love, beauty, fertility, and war, and is associated with the Vanir pantheon of gods. She is often depicted as a beautiful woman with long, golden hair and a chariot drawn by cats.

In addition to these major deities, the Norse pantheon includes many other gods and goddesses, such as Loki, the trickster god; Heimdall, the god of vigilance and protector of Asgard; and Baldur, the god of light and beauty. Each of these deities has their own unique stories and characteristics, and they all play important roles in Norse mythology and the Asatru faith.

In Asatru, some practitioners follow the Nine Noble Virtues, a set of values that are seen as the foundation of a good and honorable life. These virtues are: courage, truth, honor, fidelity, discipline, hospitality, industriousness, self-reliance, and perseverance. However, it is important to note that not all Asatru practitioners follow the Nine Noble Virtues, as they are a modern invention and not necessarily in alignment with the beliefs of all Norse Pagans. 

Some practitioners of Norse Paganism, particularly those who follow the traditions of the Vanir pantheon, may follow the Vanic Virtues instead. These virtues may include compassion, generosity, and a strong sense of community.

Anglo-Saxon Pagans, who follow the traditions of the Anglo-Saxon culture, may follow a set of values known as thews. These values may include courage, honor, loyalty, and hospitality, among others.

Regardless of the specific virtues that a practitioner follows, it is important to remember that the values and beliefs of Asatru and other forms of Norse Paganism are diverse and varied. It is up to each individual to decide which values are most important to them and how they wish to live their life in accordance with their beliefs. 

Norse Pagan practitioners often celebrate the major holidays of the Norse calendar, including Yule (the winter solstice), Eostre (the spring equinox), Midsummer (the summer solstice), and Autumn Equinox (the fall equinox). These holidays, also known as blots, are typically marked by rituals, feasting, and offerings to the gods. These celebrations serve to honor the deities and to align oneself with the natural rhythms of the world.

Norse Pagan practitioners also celebrate a number of lesser holidays throughout the year, known as ‘tides.’ These tides are typically associated with specific gods or goddesses, and are marked by rituals and offerings. These celebrations serve to honor the specific deity associated with the tide and to seek their blessings and guidance.

Norse Paganism is a diverse and inclusive religion, and practitioners come from a variety of backgrounds and beliefs. It is a religion that emphasizes personal responsibility, self-reliance, and living in harmony with the natural world. Followers of Norse Paganism seek to live in accordance with the values and virtues of the ancient Norse people, while also recognizing the importance of individual interpretation and personal growth. Norse Paganism provides a framework for understanding the world and one’s place within it, and offers a sense of community and connection with the gods and the natural world. May the blessings of the gods be upon you.