Is Asatru the same as Norse mythology?

Another name for the religion is the Icelandic Ásatrú, which translates as “Æsir belief”—the Æsir being a sub-set of deities in Norse mythology. This is more commonly rendered as Asatru in North America, with practitioners being known as Asatruar.

What do you call someone who follows Asatru?

The name comes from two words in a language called Old Norse. It means “faith in the Æsir.” The Æsir are the Germanic gods. A person who practices Asatru is called an Asatrui (pl. Asatruar), and is sometimes referred to as a heathen.

Do Asatru believe in Valhalla?

The Asatru believe that those who killed in battle are escorted to Valhalla by Freyja and her Valkyries. Some traditions of Asatruar believe that those who have lived a dishonorable or immoral life go to Hifhel, a place of torment.

How many Asatru are there?

Rich symbolism. Today the Asatru has close to 3,000 members and is one of the fastest growing religions in Iceland. Its principles are non-authoritarian and decentralised, with no sacred text or official founder. Its philosophy promotes tolerance and individual liberty.

What religion was Germany before Christianity?

Germanic paganism included various religious practices of the Germanic peoples from the Iron Age until Christianisation during the Middle Ages.

What is the Viking version of the Bible?

The Vikings had no holy scripture. Like most ethnic religions they were an oral religion. They had a wealth of mythological and heroic poems, which are now collected in the “Edda”, but this book – although treated as “sacred scripture” by some modern pagans – was only written down in Christian times.

Does the US recognize Asatru?

UNITED STATES – The Department of Defense (DoD) has added several Heathen and Pagans religions to its recognized faith groups list after a multi-year effort by Heathen and Pagan religious organizations and individuals. Four of the religions added to the document include Heathenry, Asatru, Seax Wicca, and Druidry.

What do Asatru think of Odinism?

Asatru think that some go to Odin when they die, but looking over your descendants, getting to Freyas home, resting in Gimle or even relaxing by Hel is just as fine. For Asatru war might be necessary and they are prepared to fight. But they prefer peace. Odinism is a warrior religion that reminds me of Christianity.

What is the point of Odinism?

Odinism is a warrior religion that reminds me of Christianity. Odin is the high god and the king and the all poweful one. Odin is seen as a warrior king and it is all others duty to follow and fight. The point of humans is to die honorably in battle so they can follow Odin.

Do Odinists prefer peace or war?

But they prefer peace. Odinism is a warrior religion that reminds me of Christianity. Odin is the high god and the king and the all poweful one. Odin is seen as a warrior king and it is all others duty to follow and fight. The point of humans is to die honorably in battle so they can follow Odin.

Do asstru Rever Odin?

Many asstru rever Odin, but not necessarily. They might as well prefer to call on Thor, Ull, Freya, Sif, Frigga, Baldur, Skadi, Gerda, Forsete or Loki. The jotuns are treated with caution, but might also be called upon when it seems right.