I am Heathen. What does that mean? In the litteral sense it means I am outside of the usual beliefs of my community. My beliefs are rooted in the Norse pantheon with a little bit of Celtic too. So what is Norse Heathenry? Simply put it's a modern revival of the ancient pre-Christian belief systems of the Germanic peoples of Northern Europe. Rooted in the rich tapestry of Norse mythology and folklore, Norse Heathenry, also known as Ásatrú or Germanic Neopaganism, is a polytheistic faith that honours a pantheon of deities, nature, and our ancestors.

At the heart of Norse Heathenry is the veneration of the Aesir and Vanir, the gods and goddesses who play an active role in the world and our lives. Key deities include Odin, the Allfather; Thor, the mighty protector; Tyr, keeper of justice and Freyja, the goddess of love and fertility. We also honour the spirits of the land and our ancestors, believing that their wisdom and guidance are integral to our spiritual journey. Our rituals, known as blóts, often involve offerings of food and drink to the gods, spirits, and ancestors. Norse Heathenry places a strong emphasis on personal honour, integrity, and loyalty. Our community is diverse and inclusive, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds who feel a connection to the Norse gods and traditions. We believe that the wisdom of the past can guide us towards a more meaningful and harmonious future.

Norse Heathenry is not just about looking back; it is a living, evolving tradition that adapts to the modern world while staying true to its ancient roots. Whether you are drawn to the stories of the gods, the beauty of nature, or the strength of community, Norse Heathenry offers a path of spiritual growth and discovery.

There are several common misconceptions about Norse Heathenry that can lead to misunderstandings about the faith. Here are a few:

Association with White Supremacy: One of the most damaging misconceptions is that Norse Heathenry is inherently linked to white supremacist ideologies. While some fringe groups have co-opted Norse symbols and beliefs for their own agendas, the majority us strongly reject these views and promote inclusivity and diversity.

Viking Worship: Another misconception is that Norse Heathenry is about worshipping Vikings or glorifying their warrior culture. While the Viking Age is a significant part of Norse history, Heathenry focuses more on the spiritual and mythological aspects, such as honouring the gods, ancestors, and nature.

Historical Inaccuracy: Some people believe that modern Heathenry is an exact continuation of ancient practices. In reality, it is a reconstruction based on historical, archaeological, and folkloric evidence. This means that while it draws heavily from ancient traditions, it also adapts to the modern world.

Romanticised Past: Many people romanticize the past, thinking of it as a time of epic heroes and pure traditions. This can lead to anachronistic views that don’t accurately reflect the complexities and realities of ancient Norse societies.

Addressing these misconceptions helps in fostering a better understanding of Norse Heathenry and its true essence. If you have any specific aspects you’d like to know more about, feel free to ask me!