A Practical Heathen's Guide to Asatru

by Patricia M. Lafayllve

Overview

Asatru Then and Now

From its pre-Christian beginnings to its contemporary practitioners, Heathenry has long fascinated people from every corner of the world. Written from the unique perspective of a Heathen gythja, or Godwoman, A Practical Heathen's Guide to Asatru shows how to bring the beliefs and traditions of this ancient faith into your life today. In this complete guide to Asatru, you will discover:

• The mythology, folklore, and historical sagas of Northern European Heathens
• How to conduct rituals for birth, naming, entry into adulthood, weddings, divorces, funerals, and holy days
• Practical techniques for meditation, trance-work, prayer, and working with runes and charms
• Heathen perspectives on the nature of time, creation, worship, ethics, oaths, and hospitality
• An in-depth glossary, index, pronunciation guide, and bibliography for further study

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780738733876
Publisher:	Llewellyn Worldwide, LTD.
Publication date:	11/08/2013
Pages:	264
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.80(d)

About the Author

Since 1996, Patricia M. Lafayllve has lectured and performed rituals throughout the United States. She is a member of Two Ravens Kindred and The Troth, where she has served as Steward, High Steward, Godwoman, Rede member, and Steerswoman. Patricia is the founder of The Troth’s Lore Program and served as its Provost. She lives in Southeastern Connecticut. Visit her online at walkyrja.wordpress.com.

Table of Contents

Pronunciation Guide xi

Introduction 1

Part 1

1 An Introduction to Heathenry 7

2 A Brief History 13

3 Gods and Goddesses 23

4 Ancestor Worship in Heathenry 59

5 The Landvaettir and Other Wights 73

6 Creation and Cosmology 87

7 Wyrd and Örlög 101

8 Concepts of Time 107

9 Innangardh and Utangardh 115

10 Runes, Charms, and Magic 121

11 Seidh 135

12 Ethics, Hospitality, and Oaths 145

Part 2

Chapter 13 Heathen Rituals, Heathen Ways 163

Chapter 14 Blóts for the Holy Tides 185

Chapter 15 Sample Life Rituals 205

Appendix: The Problem of Loki 219

Glossary 225

Bibliography 241

Index 247