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Yule Traditions

                               Finnegan Winterfox   The season of Yule, or Jul falls between the Winter Solstice and Jólablót, the Yule sacrifice.  I will not explain the Solstice too much here but rather go into the traditions of Yule. Even then the traditions are the more modern ones with a bit of an explanation of their older history. Let us start! The 12 days of Yule:  Yule is traditionally 12 days long. Each day celebrated something different. For the Norse heathens and pagans, the first day was dedicated to the goddess Frigga. It was called the Mothernight  and it represented the death and rebirth of the world to and out of the darkness of the winter as it was the shortest day and of course landed on the winter solstice. A big tradition was for a vigil to be held from dusk to dawn in order to see the rebirth of the sun. They would welcome her back into the world as she rises. On the first day you wanted to finish all you work for the year. If you failed to do so you could make the gods and lesser beings around very cranky.  Another thing that some would do is leave out a bowl of milk and porridge for the family’s Tomte. The Tomte is a spirit that watches over and guards the house these traditions of course came from Sweden and the Tomte is very fond of horses. Their favorite will be sleeker and better groomed compared to the rest. They also looked over the children of the household thus it was common to give them something on the first day of Yule. Porridge and milk being the most common. The rest of the days were spent inside while drink and food were eaten and crafts were made. At night Odin/Wodin would lead the restless dead on hunts. The longest being on the first day and the twelfth.  You did not wish to be spotted by them but it was thought well of to leave gifts out for them. During this time the dead would roam freely and feast with their kin. Other magical creatures also roamed freely such as Elves and Trolls. For some, the idea of Santa seems to come from Odin due to being called the Jólnir or ‘Yule on’. Other sources believe it to be from the idea of a Nisse or Tomte riding on a goat and delivering gifts to homes which is where the Yule goat or Julbock tradition came from. The Yule goat is a small goat crafted out of straw and placed in our outside of the home. It is believed that it’s base came from Thor’s goats, Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr. To Trim a Tree: The Evergreen was a symbol of life for many in the winter as all other trees would ‘die’ but the Evergreen stayed alive. The trees would be covered with gifts in offering both to the tree spirits and plants but also some tries would hold gifts in the forms of ribbons, ornaments and holiday treats for the Landvaettir or land-wights who affect our everyday lives and are around us constantly. Offerings to the land-wights were hung on the branches of a special tree. This tree also represented Yggdrasil.

In some places the tree was put inside, for hiding from the church, while for others the tree stayed outside. Some places had a ribbon wrapped and candle lit wreath that may have reflected the Oath-ring or the Yule Sun-wheel that was brought indoors rather than a tree. Other items such as straw animals were used to decorate the home and some were hung on the tree. The Julbock of course which represents Thor’s goats and the Julegris, the wild boar of Freyr. Many other animal which had their place in the beliefs were represented as well. Berries and runes are also added and anything that reminds you of the eternity of the World tree. The Yule Log: The Yule log was a log picked to burn from the dawn of the first day of Yule to the dawn of the next day. It could be decorated or left plain. In some places it was supposed to burn all 12 days of Yule and contests would be held to find the largest log. Once burnt the ashes or burned parts of the wood would be used to make charms and putting a piece under the bed was thought to bring good luck for the house against fires. In households without a fireplace one can use a 24 hour candle which if you desire can be put in the log and the log decorated. Links for info: http://www.theasatrucommunity.org/yule https://seventreesfarm.wordpress.com/2013/12/20/twelve-days-of-yule/ https://www.vikingslots.com/blog/yule-viking-christmas                            Crafts Making Your own Yule Log: https://www.thoughtco.com/make-a-yule-log-2563006?utm_source=pinterest&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=shareurlbuttons_nip https://www.hometalk.com/11298766/christmas-yule-log-diy-tutorial Twig Stars: http://www.northstory.ca/rustic-modern-twig-stars/ List of different crafts: http://kitchenwitchuk.blogspot.com/2011/11/yule-crafts.html?m=1 To make a Yule goat: http://laughingcrowe.com/handcraft/to-make-a-yule-bock/                                     Tarot Draws 1:  https://www.pinterest.com/pin/374713631474572464/ 2: https://thebutterflywitch.com/2016/12/19/tarot-spread-for-yule/ 3: http://ethony.com/yule-tarot-spread/              Yule Recipes http://recipesforapagansoul.weebly.com/yule-dec-21-23.html

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Lucets are a hugely underrated tool for witchcraft.

It’s been around since before the middle ages, makes various types of cords. (most commonly a box cord. which unlike rounded cords is less likely to unravel, perfect for corsets ) The very shape is reminiscent of the devil or a stang. Usually made of wood or bone which can be carved. Its a type of waving that is repetitive and can be done in trance or when your mind is else where. I’ve used it for making witch ladders, bindings and protection charms. It’s super portable and doesn’t take much skill to learn the various types of cords, braids, or weavings. All around I’m honestly surprised more people haven’t raved about this sweet little tool so steeped in history!

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Reading list for this month/ next month: Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman The Modern Witchcraft Spell Book by Skye Alexander The Norse Shaman by Evelyn C. Rysdyk

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Hi, sorry to bother you. I've been interested in Norse paganism for a while now and have been thinking about invoking Freyja, but I want to do it right. Do you have any tips for someone who's never tried to communicate with the Gods? Thanks so much 💕

You are never a bother, I like helping!

The best way to introduce yourself to a god or goddess is with a gift. It can be anything that you feel is appropriate, though food and drinks are the most traditional offering.

All you have to do is say “Hello Lady Freyja, my name is (__)” and then state your intentions. Be honest and open.

Beyond that it can be as simple or in depth as you prefer.

If you need ideas for gifts for Freyja specifically, here’s a list of some things she’s associated with:

-hogs, pigs, boar-the ocean-amber-witchcraft-falcons -the runes-cats-gold-The Milky Way-female fertility and sexuality-strong women, warriors

@thewitchofthenorse has a much better Freyja tag than I do if you’re still at a loss for what to do.

Good luck!

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Norse Gods (And Other Deities) List

Having seen various incorrect, incomplete and inaccurate lists of Norse gods circulating Tumblr, I have decided to write my own and also include common terminology alongside. I will also include other beings who exist within the old lore and modern traditions.

I have opted to include the names in Norwegian, with translations in parenthesise after, along with a brief summary of some of the associations given to some of those gods. Be aware that, as an overview, brevity is necessary here and the individuals should not be oversimplified to basic aspects in your practice!

Æser (Æsir, Male Gods)

Balder (Baldr, Baldur) - Light, purity, rebirth

Brage (Bragi) - Poetry, eloquence, wisdom and music

Delling (Dellingr) - The new day, dawn

Forsete (Forseti) - Justice and reconciliation

Frøy (Freyr) - Vaner, virility, fertility, the sacred religious position of royalty, prosperity, good weather and sunshine

Heimdall (Heimdallr) - The senses, premonition or foreknowledge

Hermod (Hermóðr) - Bravery, spirit, possibly a former mortal hero/king elevated to the Æsir

Hjuke (Hjúki) - Man, lunar activity, lunar phases, moon craters, brother of Bil (the Scandinavian children in the moon)

Hod (Höðr, Hodr) - The blind god, darkness, rebirth, second chances

Høne (Hænir, Hœnir) - Survival, sense/spirit, beauty,

Lodur (Lóðurr) - Blood, warmth, life, 

Loke (Loki) - Change, creativity, ambiguity, impulsiveness

Lyter (Lýtir) - Premonition, foresight, prediction, prophecy

Magne (Magni) - Strength, development, son of Tor

Meile - Son of Odin, brother of Tor

Mime (Mímir) - Wisdom, knowledge, memory, advice

Måne (Máni) - The moon, the night sky

Njord (Njörðr) - Vaner, the sea, harbours, ports, seafaring, wind, fishing, wealth/prosperity, and crop fertility

Od (Óðr) - Madness, fury, eagerness, excitement

Odin (Óðinn) - Father, war, battle, victory, death, wisdom, runes, magic, poetry, charms

Tor (Þórr, Thor) - Thunder, lightning, storms, rain, strength, protection, hallowing, healing, fertility

Ty (Týr, Tyr) - Law, sacrifice, heroism, glory, war

Ull (Ullr) - Skiing, archery, hunting, weapons, shields, personal combat, oaths

Vidar (Víðarr) - Vengeance, atonement, preparation, survival, silence

Vilje (Vili) - Will, willpower, moderation, the middle, wit, intelligence, touch, sense, motion

Ve (Vé) - Countenance, appearance, facial expression, speech, hearing, sight

Våle (Váli) - Revenge, bravery, daring, marksmanship, survival, rebirth

Åsynjer (Ásynjur, Female Gods)

Bil - Woman, lunar activity, phases of the moon, sister of Hjuke (the Scandinavian children in the moon)

Eir - Help, healing, protection, mercy, grace, calm

Fjorgyn/Jord (Fjörgyn/Jörð) - Earth, the world, nature, greenery

Frigg - Mother, love, fate, prophecy, marriage, birth, midwifery

Frøya (Freyja) - Vaner, fertility, love, passion, sex, sexuality, beauty, fertility, gold, magic, war, death

Fulla - domesticity, cleaning, housekeeping, listening, confidant, secrecy

Gersemi - Precious, beauty, blonde hair

Gjevjon (Gefjun) - Virginity, plowing, female independence 

Gnå (Gná) - Messenger, errands, crossing planes of existence, travel through land, air and water

Hnoss - Treasure, beauty, brunette hair

Idunn (Iðunn) - Youth, vigour, apples, love

Ilm - Fragrance, aroma, smells

Irpa - Guardian goddess, Hålogaland

Lin (Hlín) - Weddings, domestic sphere, flax, onion, fabrics

Lovn (Lofn) - Benevolence, kindness, gentleness, consolation

Nanna - Loyalty, empathy

Njorun - Soil, the land

Rind (Rindr) - Princess/goddess/giantess, mother of Våle from the East

Rån (Rán) - Sea, protection from drowning, fishing

Sigyn - Loyalty, burden, sadness

Siv (Sif) - Fields, wheat, fertility, family, wedlock

Sjavn (Sjöfn) - Love, sex, desire

Snotra - Wisdom, intelligence, cleverness, appropriate conduct

Sol (Sól) - The sun, warmth, daylight

Syn - Refusal, denial, speaking out, legal defence

Såga (Sága) - Seeress, all-seeing, companionship, drinking partner

Torgerd Hølgebrud (Þorgerðr Holgabrúðr) - Guardian goddess, Hålogaland, heathen shrines

Var (Vör) - Honesty, awareness, caution, carefulness

Vår (Vár) - Oaths (and punishing oath breakers), pledges, agreements, betrothal

Jotner (Jötnar, Elemental Giants)

Aurvandil - Star, planet, Orion & Big Dipper constellations

Bauge (Baugi) - Farmer, money, wages

Dag (Dagr) - Day, light, rides Skinfakse

Fornjot (Fornjótr) - Ancient giant, ancestor, original, owner

Frosti (Jökull) - Cold, winter, frost, ice, icicles, glaciers

Fårbaute (Fárbauti) - Hitting, striking, cruelty, danger, violence

Geirrød (Geirröd) - Entrapment, cruelty, aggression, violence

Gyme - Hills, Mounds

Helblinde (Helblindi) - “Hel Blinder”, “All Blind”

Hyme (Hymir) - Brewing, cauldron, thick skull

Kåre (Kári) - Wind, scathe, howl, sails

Loke (Loki) - Change, creativity, ambiguity, impulsiveness

Loge (Logi) - Fire, wildfire, 

Mime (Mímir) - Knowledge, wisdom, memory, counsel, Mimes Brønn (Mímisbrunnr)

Mokkurkalve - Clay, life, innocence, childishness

Norve (Narfi) - Narrow, oppressive, closed in, difficult birth

Rungne (Hrungnir) - Strength, brawling, fighting, whetstone

Snø (Snær) - Snow

Surt (Surtr) - Fire, heat, burning, blackness

Suttung (Suttungr) - Mead of poetry, orphaned, eagle

Tjaste (Þjazi, Thiazi) - Abduction of Idunn

Torre (Þorri, Thorri) - Black ice, frost, cold, winter

Trym (Þrymr, Thrymr) - Uproar, King of Jotner, 

Vale (Vali) - Unlucky, wolf, murdered his brother Norve

Vavtrudne (Vafþrúðnir) - Riddles, weaver of tales

Utgards-Loke (Útgarða-Loki) - The outer places, magic, illusion, beyond society, an alternate plane

Yme (Ymir) - The big bang, primordial, birth, the ancestor of all, elemental

Æge (Ægir) - Sea, ocean, sea creatures, protector of sailors

Gygrer (Gýgr, Elemental Giantess)

Angerboda (Angrboða) - Grief bringer, sorrow, Iron Wood

Aurboda ( Aurboða) - Gravel, mountains

Bestla - Mother to Odin, Vilje and Ve.

Driva (Drífa) - Snowfall

Fonn - Snowdrift

Gerd (Gerðr) - Beauty, light, fertility, earth

Grid (Gríðr) - Greed, vehemence, violence, impetuosity

Hel - Death, Helheim (the underworld), Náströnd (“Corpse Shore”)

Hyrrokkin - Fire smoked, smoke, strength, wolves, serpents

Jernsaksa (Járnsaxa) - Iron knife, mother to Magne

Lauvøy (Laufey) - Needle, slender, weak

Menglød (Menglöð) - Lives in a castle guarded by Fjölsviðr

Mjoll (Mjöll) - Powdered snow

Natt (Nótt) - Night, darkness, nightfall, counting time, rides Rimfakse

Skade (Skaði) - Damage, archery, hunting, skiing, winter, mountains

Vetter (Vættir, Beings) & Other

Alver (Elves) - Light/Dark/Black, personification of nature

Andvare (Andvari) - Dwarf, “careful one”, waterfall, fish, wealth, magic ring called Andvaranaut

Ask og Embla - The first humans, ancestors of humanity

Diser (Dísir) - Female protective deities/spirits, fate

Dverger (Dvergar) - Dwarfs, metallurgy, wisdom, smithing, mining, crafting

Einherjer (Einherjar) - Honoured dead, fallen in battle, sent to Folkvang or Valhalla

Fenrisulven (Fenrisúlfr) - Death, destruction, rage, the end of times, fen-dweller

Fjolne (Fjölnir) - Swedish king, Vaner, son of Frøy and Gerd

Gullveig/Heid (Heiðr) - Volva, seid, enigmatic, “Lust For Gold” or “Golden Drink”

Kvase (Kvasir) - Wisdom, knowledge, skaldship, poetry, mead, blood, juice

Midgardsormen (Jörmungandr, Midgard Serpent) - Sea serpent, poison, self-reflexivity, cyclicality

Norner (Norns) - Weavers of fate, Wyrd, destiny, birth, death

Sigurd Fåvnesbane - Stag, hero, wisdom, prophecy, speak to birds

Starkad (Starkaðr) - Jotun, hero, great warrior, many arms cut off by Tor

Troll - Isolated natural landmarks, strength, slow, dim witted, 

Valkyrjer (Valkyries) - Choosers of the slain, Odin’s maids, spirits, ferocity, death, ravens, wolves

Vanlande (Vanlandi) - Hero, Swedish king, Vaner, “Man from the land of the Vaner”, 

Vedfinn (Viðfinnr) - Father of Hjuke and Bil

Vetter (Vættir) - landvette, skogsvette, husvette, vannvette, sjøvette, havvette, hulder, nøkken, draugen, nisse, troll, huldrefolk, deildegasten, dradokke, trollkatt, basilisk, krake, utburd, lyktemenn, varulv, marmæl, lindorm

Volund (Völundr) - Blacksmith, magical powers, sword maker, hero, alvedrotten (Chieftan of elves)

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Vegvísir, also known as the Norse Compass. It’s magick keeps you from getting lost, and protects you on your travels.

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When you hear thunder it is only thunder. But for me, it is still Thor beating his hammer.

Rollo, Vikings (via skjaldmaer-shieldmaiden)

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What are the old Norse/Germanic holidays and when do they fall???Btw beautiful blog.

Here is a simplified wheel of the year.

And here is some more in-depth information from The Asatru Alliance

SnowMoon/January

Snowmoon 3,

Charming of the Plow: This is the date of an agricultural ritual performed in Northern Europe from ancient times. Grains and cakes were offered for the soil’s fertility, and the Sky Father and Earth Mother were invoked to that end. Meditate upon your dependence on the soil, and crumble upon the earth a piece of bread as you call upon Odin, Frigga and the Land Spirits to heal the Earth and keep it from harm.

Snowmoon 9,

Day of Remembrance for Raud the Strong: Raud was a landowner in Norway who was put to death by (St.) Olaf Tryggvason for his loyalty to Asatru by having a snake forced down his throat. Rauds lands were then confiscated in the name of the king and his monks. Raise a horn in honor of Raud and all of his kinsmen who gave their lives, rather then submit to the enforced love of the kristjan empire.

Snowmoon 14,

Thorrablot: This holiday began the Old Norse month of Snorri. It is still observed in Iceland with parties and a mid-winter feast. It is of course sacred to Thorr and the ancient Icelandic Winter Spirit of Thorri. On this day we should perform blot to Thorr and invite the mighty Asaman to the feast.

Horning / February

Horning 2,

Barri: This is the day we celebrate the wooing by Ingvi Freyr of the maiden Gerd, a symbolic marriage of the Vanir God of Fertility with the Mother Earth. It is a festival of fertility, the planted seed and the plowed furrow. For those of you who garden, this is the time to plant seeds indoors, to later be transplanted in the summer garden.

Horning 9,

Day of Remembrance for Eyvind Kinnrifi: Olaf tortured him to death by placing a bowl of red-hot embers on his stomach until his body burst open. Eyvind’s crime was a steadfast loyalty to the Old Gods. A good day to reflect on kristjan kindness.

Horning 14,

Feast of Vali: This feast originally celebrated the death of Hothr at the hands of Vali. This late winter festival relates to the triumphant return of the light of the sun over the dark days of winter. Today it is traditional celebration of the family. A time for the customary exchange of cards and gifts with loved ones. It is also a time for the renewal of marriage vows and an occasion for marriages.

Lenting / March

Lenting 9,

Day of Remembrance for Oliver the Martyr: He was an adherent of Asatru who persisted in organizing underground sacrifices to the Gods and Goddesses despite decrees by St Olaf the Lawbreaker forbidding such activities. Betrayed by an informer, he was killed by Olaf’s men while preparing for the Spring sacrifice in the village of Maerin Norway. Many other men whose names are lost to us were also killed, mutilated, or exiled for taking part in such sacrifices.

Lenting 20,

High Feast of Ostara: This is the Spring Equinox. The end of Winter and the beginning of the season of rebirth. Today we honor Frigga, Freya and Nerthus with blot and feast. Pour a libation of mead onto the Earth; celebrate the rebirth of nature, Asatru, and the new hopes of our Folk.

Lenting 28,

Ragnar Lodbrok Day: Ragnar was one of the legends most famous Vikings. On this day in Runic Year 1145 he raided Paris. It just happened to be Easter Sunday. Today toast Ragnar and read from his Saga.

Ostara / April

Ostara 9,

Day of Remembrance for Jarl Hakon of Norway: As ruler of the western part of the realm, Hakon restored the worship of the Old Gods and cast out the alien religion. In the process, the common folk regained political liberties which were erased under the kristjan yoke, and the flame of our Troth burned brighter in an era of gathering gloom. It may be that Hakon’s defense of our ancestral ways helped encourage the survival of our traditions in Iceland, where they eventually became the seeds of modern day Asatru. On this day reflect on how the actions of the individual can impact world events and the future of Odinn’s Nation.

Ostara 15,

Sigrblot/Sumarsdag: Today we celebrate the first day of Summer in the Old Icelandic calendar. In Iceland it had strong agricultural overtones, but elsewhere in the Nordic world, it was a time to sacrifice to Odinn for victory in the summer voyages and battles.

Ostara 22,

Yggdrasil Day: On this day we realize the great significance that the World Tree plays in our culture, heritage, and native spirituality. It is from the World Tree that we came, and it shelters and nurtures the Asatru today, and will offer refuge to the Folk come Ragnarok. Trees are the lungs as well as the soul of Midgard. Plant a tree today, nurture it, and protect it. In this act the Folk must abide.

Ostara 30,

Walburg: this is better known as Walpurgisnacht or May Eve. Walberg is a goddess of our folk combining some of the traits of Her better-known peers. Reflect on this day on Freya, Hel, and Frigga as the repository of the glorious dead, and you will have an idea of Wulburg’s nature. On this day pour a horn of mead upon the earth in memory of our heroes.

Merrymoon / May

Merrymoon 1,

May Day: The first of May is a time of great celebration all across Europe, as the fields get greener and the flowers decorate the landscape with colorful confusion. Freya turns her kindly face to us after the night of Walburg. Celebrate the birth of Spring and the gifts of Freya on this day.

Merrymoon 9,

Day of Remembrance for Guthroth: One of the upland minor kings. Guthroth had to the audacity to make a speech opposing the policies of Olaf Tryggvason, who at the time was busy killing people who did not want to become kristjans. For exercising his Gods given rights to worship his tribal Gods, Guthroth was captured and his tongue was cut out. Use your tongue for the Gods today! Sing their praises and recite some heroic poetry, tell someone of the Gods glory, and call a kinsman to keep in touch.

Merrymoon 20,

Frigga Blot: Today we rejoice in the warmth and splendor of Spring. A traditional time for a Kindred campout, perform blot to honor the AllMother and thank Her for the health and vitality of the Family, Kindred and Tribe.

Midyear / June

Midyear 8,

Lindisfarne Day: On this day in the year 1043 Runic Era (793 CE) three Viking ships raided the Isle of Lindisfarne, officially opening what is the Viking Age. Toast these brave warriors who began the noble resistance of the alien invasion of the Northlands and sought rightful revenge for the slaughter of the Saxons by Charlamange.

Midyear 9,

Day of Remembrance for Sigurd the Volsung: He is the model Germanic hero. His wooing of the Valkyrie Brynhild, the winning of the treasure of the Nibelungs, and the constant theme of Odinic initiation that weaves itself throughout his story are priceless parts of our Asatru heritage, that provide endless material for contemplation and inspiration for action.

Midyear 21,

Midsummer: This is the longest day and the shortest night of the year: Now Sunna begins its ling decline, sliding into the darkness which will culminate six months from now at Yule. Identifying the sun with the brightness of Baldur, we celebrate in honor of both. Hold blot to Baldur and High Feast. This was the traditional time for holding the AlThing in ancient times.

Haymoon / July

Haymoon 4,

Founder’s Day: On this day we honor the unselfish personal sacrifice and unswerving dedication to our Folk exemplified by the founders of modern era Asatru, H. Rud Mills of Australia, Sveinbjorn Beinteinsson and Thorsteinn Guthjonson of Iceland. On this day reflect on just what YOU can do to promote the growth of our ancestral religion and protect our sacred heritage and traditions.

Haymoon 9,

Day of Remembrance for Unn the Deep Minded: Unn was a powerful figure from the Laxdaela Saga who emigrated to Scotland to avoid the hostility of King Harald Finehair. She established dynasties in the Orkney and Faroe Islands by carefully marrying off her grand daughters. As a settler in Iceland she continued to exhibit all those traits which were her hallmark-strong will, a determination to control, dignity, and a noble character. In the last days of her life, she established a mighty line choosing one of her grandsons as her heir. She died during his wedding celebration, presumable accomplishing her goals and worked out her orlog here in Midgard. She received a typical Nordic ship burial, surrounded by her treasure and her reputation for great deeds.

Haymoon 29,

Stikklestad Day: Olaf the Lawbreaker (“St. Olaf”) was killed at the battle of Stikklestad on this date in the year 1280 R.E. Olaf acquired a reputation for killing, maiming, and exiling his fellow Norwegians who would not convert to Christianity, and for carrying an army with him in violation of the law to help him accomplish his oppression. Today honor the Asatru martyrs who died rather then submit to gray slavery. Also honor the warriors who brought justice to the Lawbreaker.

Harvest / August

Harvest 9,

Day of Remembrance for Radbod: On this date we honor Radbod a king of Frisia what was an early target kristjan missionaries. Just before his baptism ceremony, he asked the clergy what fate his befallen ancestors who died loyal to Asatru. The missionaries replied that Radbod’s Heathen ancestors were burning in Hell-to which the king replied: “Then I will rather live there with my ancestors than go to heaven with a parcel of beggars.” The baptism was cancelled, the aliens expelled, and Frisia remained free. Drink a horn this day in memory of Radbod.

Harvest 19,

Freyfaxi: Freyfaxi marked the time of the harvest in ancient Iceland. Today the Asatru observe this date as a celebration of their harvest with blot to Freyr and a grand Feast from the gardens and the fields.

Shedding / September

Shedding 9,

Day of Remembrance for Herman of the Cherusci: Few mortals have privileged to serve our Folk as did Herman, a leader of the tribe called the Cherusci. We he defeated Varus’ three Roman Legions in 9 C.E. he blocked our amalgamation into the Mediterranean morass. Herman was very aware of his duties not only as a member of his tribe but also as an Asaman - indeed the two were probably inseparable with him. Shedding is the ideal time to give him praise, because the crucial battle for which he is remembered was fought during this month.

Shedding 23,

Winter Finding: The Fall Equinox; Summer and Winter balance for a moment and the cold, old man wins - for now. Brace yourself for longer nights and the onset, eventually, of the cold and darkness of Winter. Do blot to Odin for inspiration to get through your personal lean times, whenever they may strike. This is the traditional time for Fall Fest and the Second Harvest Feast.

Hunting / October

Hunting 8,

Day of Remembrance for Erik the Red: Praise the stalwart founder of Greenland, and father of Leif, the founder of Vinland. Erik remained loyal to Thor even when his wife left the Gods and refused to sleep with her Heathen husband. Pause in memory of Erik today; drink a toast to his honor. No doubt he gets enough warmth in Har’s Hall to make up for his wife’s coldness.

Hunting 9,

Day of Remembrance for Leif Erikson: this is a day that even the U.S. Government admits who should dedicate to the man who beat Columbus to the shores of Vinland by over 500 years. Don’t let it slide quietly - write your local newspapers and share the word of the Norse colonies with neighbors and friends.

Hunting 14,

Winter Nights/Vetrablot: In the Old Icelandic Calendar, winter begins on the Satyrday between Hunting 11th and 17th. Winter Nights celebrates the bounty of the harvest and honors Freya and the fertility and protective spirits called Disir, that She leads (often the Disir are seen as our female ancestors). Give glory to Freya and pour a libation of ale, milk, or mead into the soil an offering to the Disir and the Earth itself.

Fogmoon / November

Fogmoon 9,

Day of Remembrance for Queen Sigrith of Sweden: When Olaf the Lawbreaker had been king of Norway for three years, he asked Queen Sigrith of Sweden to marry him. She agreed, but when he insisted that she give up her ancestral Gods Sigrith replied, “I do not mean to abandon the faith I have led, and my kinsmen before me. Nor shall I object to your belief in the god you prefer.” As usual Heathen tolerance was met with kristjan imprecations and a blow to the face. The wedding was off - depriving Olaf of political power that could have sped the christianization of Scandinavia. As it were, history tells us that the Heathens held on for over 300 more years in the Northlands. Hail Sigrith, defender of Asatru, and women of stubborn virtue!

Fogmoon 11,

Feast of the Einherjar: The chosen heroes who sit in Odin’s Hall are the Einherjar. Today we honor those dead kin who gave their lives for Family and Folk. If you have friends or family who died in battle, visit their graves today, if that is not possible, drink a libation in their memory.

Fogmoon 23,

Feast of Ullr: The Feast of Ullr is to celebrate the Hunt and to gain personal luck needed for success. Weapons are dedicated on this day to Ullr, God of the Bow. If your hunting arms were blessed by the luck of the God of the Hunt, your family and tribe shared the bounty with a Blot and Feast to Ullr.

Yule / December

Yule 9,

Day of Remembrance for Egil Skallagrimsson: Odin was his God, and the blood of berserks and shape-shifters ran in his family. His lust for gold and for fames was insatiable. Yet the same man was passionately moved by the love of his friends and generously opened handed to those who found his favor. The same brain that seethed with war-fury also composed skaldic poetry capable of calming angry kings. Can it be by accident that Egil worshipped Odin, the great solver of paradoxes and riddles? Indeed all Asafolk - but especially those who follow the one-eyed God of battle and magic - can learn much from the life of this amazing man.

Yule 21,

Mother Night: As the night before the Winter Solstice, this is the time when the New Year is born. We honor the beginning of Sunnas return and the breaking of Winter’s spell. This is a time to honor Thor and Freyr, celebrate by Blot, Sumbel, and High Feast. Burn a Yule Log and jump the flames for luck and purification.

Yule 22,

High Feast of Yule - Beginning of Runic Year - Sacred to Thorr and Freyr

Yule 31,

Twelfth Night: This culminates the traditional twelve days of Yule. Each day of which is a month of the preceding year in miniature. Reflect on the past year. Take stock and lay a course for the future. Make New Years resolutions in the old way by swearing your oath on Freyr’s boar or on your Hammer.

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Norse goddesses

Despite the Norse goddesses being almost as famous as their male counterparts, the surviving information is somewhat scarce.

The myths that have survived show strong characters who could stand their ground, and despite often only being mentioned as someone’s wife, were powerful in their rights.

Freyja

Freyja is the goddess of love, fertility, sexuality, beauty, and gold. She’s also a Valkyrie and the Goddess of war and death. Njörður his her father, who had her with his sister (whose name hasn’t been preserved), which makes her a member of the Vanir clan. She’s the sister of Freyr, the god of fertility and controls when the sun shines and when it rains.

Her husband is Óður, who sometimes is thought to be Óðinn, and together they have the daughters Hnoss and Gersemi. Both their names mean treasure. Freyja’s name means lady and is the origin of the Icelandic word “frú” (Mrs). Freyja is also used in the word “húsfreyja” (housewife). Apart from that, the name Freyja is relatively common in Iceland.

In Lokasenna, where Loki offends most if not all gods in Ásgarður, he accuses Freyja of having slept with all the gods and elves, including her brother, which she doesn‘t deny.

Keep reading

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Reblog to show respect to Odin, the Master of Ecstasy.

This can be a kind of offering to him.

(Not my art. Also, fuck off if you’re a nazi. This isn’t for you.)

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the nine worlds of man, giant, god, and all sorts of creatures.

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Loki Spray

I was at a birthday party long time ago where one of the activities was making perfume. So I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to make something that reminded me of Loki. I find this the scent that I associate with him the most. I don’t really know much about perfume or oils, but I know you have to be careful with essential oils, so don’t just mix them together and use them on skin. 

You need:

A carrier oil like jojoba, grape seed, or sweet almond

spearmint essential oil

frankincense and myrrh essential oil

cinnamon essential oil 

alcohol (a lot of people use vodka, but do some research for alternatives if you’re underage)

a dark bottle

a perfume bottle

Pour 2 tbsp of your carrier oil into the dark bottle.

Add 10 drops of each essential oil (30 total). 

Add the alcohol. 

Leave the bottle for at least 48 hours or longer until you’re happy with the scent. 

Add 2 tbsp of water and transfer to another bottle. 

I spray this on my pillow when I feel alone, or on my body when I’m having a bad day. It makes me feel warm and taken care of. 

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Giclée Art Prints By Peter Carrington

*More Things & Stuff

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🍃’louperial ral’ plant restoration spell 🍃

i’m new to green witchery - some of my plants don’t look so healthy, and sigils can only do so much. this spell will give your plant a much-needed health boost 🌱  (based off ‘little witch academia’)

time: this spell should be performed on a new moon

gather: willow bark, sun water, eggshells

optional materials: moonstone and jade chips (both are associated with growth + fertility)

preparations: crush the willow bark and eggshells into a powder. make sure the sun water is freshly charged.

🌿  sprinkle your powder at the base of your plant and in a ring around the stem

🌿  make an inner ring with moonstone, then an outer ring with jade

🌿  water your plant with the sun water before anointing its leaves

🌿  raise your arms and out loud, state the words

louperial ral!

(pronounced loo-peer-ee-al ral)

the energy from the powder and stones will revitalise your plant. make sure to be liberal with the sun water - this will act as a catalyst for your spell!

[forestofthewinterfox]

🔮✨☔💧🌂⛈🔜🌱🌷🌲✨🔮

Emoji spell to bring rain and storms to help drought areas.

Likes charge. Reblogs cast.

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ELEMENTAL HOUSE CLEANSE

Fire - sit down and relax. Let pure universal energy enter through the top of your head and let it connect with your own life force. Once it’s connected and working together imagine a small flame spreading from the inside of you. It can start anywhere you’d like, the center of your stomach, your head, your palms, your legs, anywhere that feels comfortable. This is not a fire that destroys and burns, this is a pleasant fire that makes you feel loved and warm. Once you’ve set yourself on fire, once you’ve felt the flame all around and inside your body, slowly let it spread on the inside of your house. This can be done with a slow small flame, or a violent huge one. Just let everything burn, imagine the fires cleansing properties burning away all the nastiness inside your house. Imagine ashes flying everywhere, and all the negativity burning away into nothingness once it’s been touched by the flames.

Water - sit down and relax. Let pure universal energy enter through the top of your head and let it connect with your own life force. Once it’s connected and working together imagine yourself as a fluid body. See and feel the cool refreshing touch of water on your body. Feel the fluidity inside yourself. Then imagine huge water, huge waves, flooding your house, pushing everything it comes in contact with. Let it mess up your house. See this water, running from one door to another, flooding everything, and destroying everything just like a tsunami would. Imagine this pure, clean and clear water gathering all the negativity in itself, taking it away with her. When you’re done, imagine one window or more, or a door open in your house and let the water go away.

Earth -  sit down and relax. Let pure universal energy enter through the top of your head and let it connect with your own life force. Once it’s connected and working together imagine huge roots bursting through your floor, intertwining all around your body. Once they’ve intertwined imagine them giving birth to flowers while all around you. Imagine these intertwined roots going all around the walls, the windows, your mirrors, your table, your bed. Imagine beautiful moist soil pouring out of the holes left by the roots. Imagine this soil filling up your house, gathering in itself all that is no longer needed and negative. Imagine transforming that negativity into something beautiful. Imagine the poisonous bad energies transforming into love and light inside the earth. Once they’ve transformed imagine this earth giving birth to more beautiful light green roots, leaves, and the most beautiful flowers you’ve ever seen. Let your whole house fill up with these beautiful flowers and roots, replenishing everything in your house. Feel the flowery scent all around you. When you’re done imagine all these roots and earth slowly going back into the whole where they came from, leaving everything intact but cleansed and fresh.

Air -  sit down and relax. Let pure universal energy enter through the top of your head and let it connect with your own life force. Once it’s connected and working together imagine violent winds forcing their way in your house through the window. Imagine these winds entering and bursting through like a hurricane through your house. Even though they are violent, they are here to help and leave everything in a better place.They’re coming straight for you. They start whirling around you, you can feel it’s pleasant coolness on your skin. You can hear the sounds of the wind. They are so strong, yet so caring and pleasant. As they whirl harder and stronger around you, they lift you up in the air, whirling even harder than before. Now, imagine them turning to the rest of your house. Imagine them leaving a mess wherever they touch. All of your notebooks are in the air, your tarot cards are flying everywhere, your clothes go all around the place, your crystals fly from one wall to another. Let these fresh and cool winds clean your place. Once you’re done, imagine these winds leaving through the window they came from.

[forestofthewinterfox]

Magick for Spring Time

❁ Do a ‘spring cleaning’ by cleaning and cleansing your whole house.  

❁ Do a ritual to welcome spring. 

❁ Begin devoting your time to learning, reading, and writing about your craft.  

❁ Use divination to determine your goals and outcomes for the year. 

❁ Start your seeds inside.

❁ Spoil your houseplants by watering them, fertilizing them, and talking to             them. Add crystals to their pots. 

❁ Spend time outside noticing signs of springs return. 

❁ Change your altar to correspond with spring. 

❁ Collect rain water from spring showers.

❁ Collect flower blossoms to dry and press for your spells and grimoire.

❁ Collect spring stream water.

❁ Meditate in the greening grass.

❁ De-clutter your home to bring forth fresh, new energies.

❁ Plant wild flowers for the bees.

I meant to post this sooner but life seems to have gotten in the way. 

May the moon light your path! Moonlight Academy