A Modern Guide to Heathenry : Lore, Celebrations, and Mysteries of the Northern Traditions

An accessible yet in-depth guide to this increasingly popular pre-Christian religious tradition of Northern Europe Heathenry, is one of the fastest growing polytheistic religious movements in the United States today. This book explores the cosmology, values, ethics, and rituals practiced by modern heathens. In A Modern Guide to Heathenry readers will have the opportunity to explore the sacred stories of the various heathen gods like Odin, Frigga, Freya, and Thor and will be granted a look into the devotional practices of modern votaries. Blóts, the most common devotional rites, are examined in rich detail with examples given for personal use. Additionally, readers are introduced to the concept of wyrd, or fate, so integral to the heathen worldview. Unlike many books on heathenry, this one is not denomination-specific, nor does it seek to overwhelm the reader with unfamiliar Anglo-Saxon or Norse terminology. For Pagans who wish to learn more about the Norse deities or those who are new to heathenry or who are simply interested in learning about this unique religion, A Modern Guide to Heathenry is the perfect introduction. Those who wish to deepen their own devotional practice will find this book helpful in their own work as well. This book explores the cosmology, values, ethics, and rituals practiced by modern Heathens and is an accessible and yet in-depth guide to this increasingly popular pre-Christian religious tradition of Northern Europe. In A Modern Guide to Heathenry, readers will have the opportunity to explore the sacred stories of the various Heathen gods like Odin, Frigga, Freya, and Thor and will be granted a look into the devotional practices of modern votaries. Blóts, the most common devotional rites, are examined in rich detail with examples given for personal use. Additionally, readers are introduced to the concept of wyrd, or fate, so integral to the Heathen worldview. A Modern Guide to Heathenry is not denomination-specific and serves as the perfect introduction for Pagans who wish to learn more about the Norse deities; those who are new to Heathenry; or those who are simply interested in learning about this unique religion. Those who wish to deepen their own devotional practice will find this book helpful in their work as well."--Back cover