Norse paganism, also known as Germanic paganism, was a polytheistic religion practiced by the ancient Norse people. This religion had a rich mythological tradition and a set of rituals and ceremonies that governed their daily lives. While the Norse pagans did not have a central holy text like the Bible or the Vedas, they did have a collection of writings and poems that formed the basis of their religious beliefs. These texts are collectively known as the Norse pagan books. One of the most important texts in Norse paganism is the Poetic Edda, also known as the Elder Edda. This collection of poems was likely composed between the 9th and 13th centuries and covers a wide range of mythological and heroic themes.
This collection of poems was likely composed between the 9th and 13th centuries and covers a wide range of mythological and heroic themes. The poems are written in Old Norse and provide valuable insights into the gods, goddesses, and epic tales of Norse mythology. Another significant text is the Prose Edda, also known as the Younger Edda.
Pagan Portals- Odin: Meeting the Norse Allfather
Known by many names and with a wide array of characteristics Odin is a God who many people believe is just as active in the world today as he was a thousand years ago and more. A god of poetry he inspires us to create. A god of magic he teaches us to find our own power. A god of wisdom he challenges us to learn all we can. In this book you will find some of Odin's stories and history as well as anecdotes of what it can be like to honor him in the modern world.
It was written by the Icelandic scholar Snorri Sturluson in the 13th century and serves as a guide to Norse mythology and poetic techniques. The Prose Edda contains a wealth of information about the Norse gods, creation myths, and the apocalypse, known as Ragnarok. In addition to these two major works, there are smaller texts and sagas that provide further information about Norse paganism. The sagas, such as the Saga of the Volsungs and the Saga of the Ynglings, narrate the legendary history of the Norse gods and heroes, their adventures, and their interactions with mortals. These sagas blend historical events with mythological elements, creating a rich tapestry of Norse lore. The Norse pagan books are not only important for understanding the religious beliefs of the ancient Norse people but also for gaining insights into their culture, worldview, and values. They reveal a society deeply connected to nature, with reverence for gods and goddesses who controlled different aspects of life. These texts provide a glimpse into a world of heroism, destiny, and a belief in an afterlife filled with great warriors feasting and battling in Valhalla. Despite the conversion of the Norse people to Christianity, the pagan texts continued to be preserved and passed down through generations. Today, scholars continue to study and translate these ancient texts to gain a deeper understanding of Norse mythology and its significance in European history and literature. In conclusion, the Norse pagan books, particularly the Poetic Edda, Prose Edda, and sagas, are valuable sources of information about the mythological and religious beliefs of the ancient Norse people. These texts provide a window into their culture, values, and worldview, allowing us to better comprehend their rich and fascinating civilization..
Reviews for "The Art of Seidr: Books on the Norse Pagan Shamanistic Tradition"
1. Sandra - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with this book about Norse paganism. The author seemed to have little knowledge or understanding of the subject matter and it felt like they were just regurgitating simplistic information. The writing style was also quite dry and lacked any sort of engaging narrative to keep me interested. Overall, I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for an in-depth exploration of Norse paganism.
2. John - 1 star - This book on Norse paganism was a complete waste of time. The information provided was basic and shallow, lacking any depth or analysis. It felt like the author had just skimmed the surface of Norse mythology without truly understanding it. Additionally, the writing was convoluted and difficult to follow, making it a struggle to get through. Save yourself the frustration and look for a different book on the subject.
3. Emily - 2 stars - As someone who has had an interest in Norse paganism for years, I found this book to be incredibly disappointing. The content was repetitive and offered nothing new, making it feel like a regurgitation of information I had already come across. The lack of critical analysis and exploration of different perspectives was also concerning, as it did not provide a well-rounded view of Norse paganism. Overall, this book fell short of my expectations and did not offer anything substantial for readers looking to deepen their understanding of the subject.