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 Posted: Mon Sep 06, 2010 7:57 am
This thread is for information and discussion pertaining to Asatru, Norse Neopaganism, Heathenism and related faiths. A group of links have been posted in the Internet resources thread and there is a Runes thread in the Divination subforum.
This group of interrelated faiths is near to me as I am an American with a substantial proportion of Scandanavian heritage. I am not, however, any sort of Reconstructionist and I don't subscribe to any of the political beliefs that have sprung from various groups under the Asatru banner. It is very sad to have to make this distinction but Neopaganism has so, so many qualifying statements that go into its discussions. For example, the Nazis co-opted several ancient Germanic symbols such that one cannot use them and some modern groups espouse extreme social and political views. So, I need to get these things cleared up before real discussion of Asatru can begin.
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Posted: Tue Sep 07, 2010 12:39 pm
Very simply, Norse paganism, Asatru and Heathenism are terms describing a faith based on the Norse pantheon of Gods and Goddesses, the Norse worldview and the sagas and writings of the early Vikings. Many followers of these paths are Reconstructionist, seeking to recreate an ancient religion through study of the existing primary materials. Moreover, such followers may also adopt some of the cultural underpinnings of the people from whom this spirituality has been recreated in modern times. Many Asatruar are students of Warrior ways and may be found, for example, in battle recreation groups (I personally know someone who participates in the Society for Creative Anachronism who is a neo-Asatruar). Others may be Wise Women, practicing what is called Seidh, divinatory trancework, herbalism and rune reading.
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Posted: Wed Oct 13, 2010 5:18 pm
There are organizations for Asatru readily found on the internet, whether you are actively looking for fellowship or study guides or just want to know you aren't alone: Asatru AllianceThe TrothThe Asatru Folk AssemblyI don't specifically recommend or warn against any of these groups; like many neopagan groups they may change overnight, suddenly go silent or simply not turn out to be quite what they advertise. I cannot emphasize enough that anyone who is new to alternative religions needs to read a lot, join some discussion threads or groups, listen around the edges before spending money or getting involved. A search of Witchvox or some floating around via Google will find many more websites, some personal, some with regalia to sell, some with axes to grind. Tread lightly.....
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Posted: Thu Oct 14, 2010 6:40 am
This post was quite enlightening thanks for it smile
I never knew there was an actual faith called heathenism. I always thought that term was the Christian word for nonbeliever.
I guess they took it and twisted it to that meaning???
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Posted: Thu Oct 14, 2010 6:23 pm
Actually, I think the northern-leaning appropriated the term 'heathen' for themselves, embracing their inner barbarian! It is very much like those who proudly say they are a witch, seeking to overturn the negative connotations many terms have been given.
any time I can help with information I am quite happy.
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Posted: Sun Apr 24, 2011 5:44 pm
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