Heathenry

Origins

Heathenry, including the Icelandic-born form called Asatru, is a modern reconstruction of Germanic religion. Organised groups appeared in the 1970s, and Iceland recognised an Asatru association in 1973. Reconstruction draws on medieval Icelandic texts, runic inscriptions and archaeology.

Beliefs and values

Heathens honour gods such as Odin, Thor, Freyja and Frey, along with ancestors and the spirits of the land. Gift-giving is central, binding people and gods in mutual obligation. Honour, hospitality and courage are widely held values.

Timeline

c. 1220

Snorri Sturluson writes the Prose Edda, a key source for Norse myth.

c. 1270

The Codex Regius, which preserves most of the Poetic Edda, is copied in Iceland.

999 or 1000

Iceland adopts Christianity by decision of its assembly, the Althing.

1972

The Ásatrúarfélagið is founded in Iceland, and receives legal recognition in 1973.

1987

The Troth is founded in the United States.

2000s

Many Heathen groups publish statements rejecting racism and political extremism.

Key terms

blót

A ritual offering, usually of food or drink, to gods or spirits.

sumbel

A ritual round of toasts in which participants honour gods, ancestors and each other.

frith

Peace and good relations between kin, friends and the community.

wyrd

A word for fate or the web of past actions that shapes the present.

folkish and universalist

Two broad approaches. Folkish groups tie Heathenry to ancestry, which most Heathens reject. Universalist groups welcome anyone.

How it keeps the festivals

Heathens do not follow the Wheel of the Year in its usual form. Many mark Yule (Jól) at midwinter, Winter Nights in October, Midsummer, and a spring or summer festival. Others follow Nordic customs, such as Þorrablót in midwinter and Disting in early spring.

Because ancient sources are fragmentary, groups differ on dates and customs. Rituals often include a blót, a sumbel and a shared meal.

See the Wheel of the Year and the glossary.

Where to read

• The Poetic Edda
• The Prose Edda by Snorri Sturluson
• The Icelandic sagas
• Hilda Ellis Davidson, Gods and Myths of Northern Europe

Cautions

Some extremist groups misuse Norse symbols and claim Heathenry for white nationalism. Most Heathens and the large organisations reject this. Look for inclusive or universalist groups, and learn which symbols carry a hateful history before you wear or display them.