Heathen Gods And Rites Some Frequently Asked Questions

Book: Heathen Gods And Rites Some Frequently Asked Questions by The Troth

Our gods belong to two "tribes", the Aesir and the Vanir. Our myths speak of a time when the Aesir and Vanir were at war, but made a truce and exchanged members. This myth may be based in part on Historical battles between human tribes who later formed an alliance; at the same time, it reflects the ways in which our gods work together. Perhaps the best-known of the Aesir is Odin.

He is the god of many things: inspiration, ecstasy, poetry, healing, the runes, and death. Frigga, whom we see as Odin’s wife, protects homes and families. Thor is the storm-god who defends the world of humans. The lightning is his weapon, the Hammer; the rain that he brings makes the fields fruitful. Tyr is the upholder of right order and justice, both among humans and in the universe. Heimdall is the watchman of the gods, and also the progenitor and teacher of the human race.

The Vanir are sometimes called "fertility gods", but they are far more than that; they are the gods of all the things in this world that we are meant to enjoy, whether good harvests, sexual love, or riches. Frey is invoked for peace and plenty; he and Odin were also the founders and protectors of many dynasties of Heathen kings. His sister Freya rules over magic, sexuality, and riches, but is also a battle goddess—she takes half of those slain in battle to be with her. Their father Njordh watches over the sea, ships, sailors, and trade.

The Jotnar or "giants" are a third group of Powerful beings. Many of our myths tell of fights between the gods and the giants. However, the Jotnar are not "evil" as the word is usually understood. On one level, some of the Jotnar represent the impersonal forces of nature: not malicious, but sometimes destructive, and not especially heedful of human concerns. Yet others of them are depicted as wise and helpful. In fact, some giants have been adopted among the gods, and nearly all our gods have giants in their ancestry.

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The Troth - Heathen Gods And Rites Some Frequently Asked Questions

Race And Religion Creating A Group Identity

Religion plays a large part in many white supremacist movements. Not just because it seems to be an easy scapegoat and, especially in the United States, an easy way to claim discriminatory speech is protected. Social movements generally contain elements that challenge the way a dominant system works, and so new sub-cultures are created as an answer to the prevailing system. This is also a result of peoples’ tendency to seek identity within a group setting—religion offers an easy way to do that. Dobratz writes, “Although religion may be viewed as an individual matter, it is mainly a shared experience that links one human being to others; bond and tradition are major concepts associated with religion…they [religions] can also be used to foster collective identity in various social movements.” Odinism is not at all unique in its use of religion to inspire ethnic conflict. This is a tactic we often see used against Judaism, the idea that the Jews are somehow “different.”

In 2001, a Professor of religious History at the University of Stockholm minced no words when asked about neo-paganism, and more specifically Odinism, in white supremacy. He asserted that, in the 1990’s, neo-paganism had overtaken Christian Identity movements in white supremacy. In The Role of Religion in the Collective Identity of the White Racialist Movement, Odinism is specifically named as one of the three religious affiliations that has been most influential in influencing and developing the white nationalist/racialist movement. This article makes a separation between racial Odinism and other neo-pagan religions. While most other neo-pagan groups tend to see their religion as somehow “universal” in scope and would normally be classified as quite liberal, Odinists, “do not believe in universal religions…unlike most other neopagans, support neotribalism, emphasize racial purity.” It is important to note that the lack of belief in a universal religion is something generally attributed only to Folkish Odinists. There is much Universalist literature suggesting belief in the idea that the Old Norse gods are simply different iterations, or even only different names, of the same pagan gods worshiped worldwide.

It has been suggested that, “religion, broadly conceived, offers the most promising path toward realization of the white nationalist dream” (Dobratz). As a broad category, religion is very helpful in recruiting for new movements. It works to provide a common history and group identity, something very attractive to potential recruits. While they may privately compete among themselves, the number of different religions that have parts in the white supremacist/white nationalist movement actually serves to attract more members than if it were homogenous. Dobratz writes, “The different religious views provide alternatives from which people can choose.”

Lately, however, Odinism seems to have become the go-to religion of white supremacists who are disillusioned with Christianity. As churches have become both more liberal and more accepting of changing societal norms (such as homosexuality or women clergy), more and more interest in Odinism and other “ancestral religions” has popped up. Frank DeSilva, a member of the Silent Brotherhood, argues that a break from Christianity in favor of Odinism is occurring within white supremacy. “Religion is for the race-culture that created it. In consequence to this, the movement is becoming increasingly non-Christian.” He goes on to cite the fact that religions are become more integrated or “non-white” as a main reason for this shift. The idea of Christianity as a Jewish plot is also gaining popularity. In a rare case of reasoning that is (somewhat) logical, one reason for white supremacists reject Christian movements is explained—

“I’m an Odinist, and I really wish that all this Christian Identity stuff would just like fade away…me and a lot of my friends just think that it’s the stupidest thing around—Christian Identity. I mean, I believe Christianity is Jewish. I mean, in nature, Jesus Christ was Jewish—it comes from the Middle East—it’s a Middle Eastern religion. I don’t think it’s for us as a racial movement—why should we take a Jewish religion if we’re so anti-Semitic?”

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Odinism And Asatru

Book: Odinism And Asatru by Anonymous

The Asatru movement began in the 1970's, as a revival of Germanic paganism. Begun in Iceland on the Summer Solstice of 1972, the Islenska Asatruarfelagid was founded recognized as an official religion the following year. Shortly afterwards, the Asatru Free Assembly was formed in the United States, although they later became the Asatru Folk Assembly. An offshoot group, the Asatru Alliance, founded by Valgard Murray, holds an annual gathering called "Althing", and has done so for over twenty-five years.

The Asatru are divided into Kindreds, which are local worship groups. These are sometimes called a garth, stead, or skeppslag. kindreds may or may not be affiliated with a national organization and are composed of families, individuals, or hearths. Members of a Kindred may be related by blood or marriage.

A Kindred is usually led by a Godar, a priest and chieftain who is the "speaker for the gods".

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Power Of Kundalini

Power of Kundalini flows through the seven major Chakras moving up and down the spine and that “according to Hindu tradition the Kundalini raises from the root-chakra up through the spinal channel, called sushumna, and it is believed to activate each chakra it goes through” and “in raising Kundalini, spiritual powers (siddhis) are also believed to arise, but many spiritual traditions see these phenomena as obstacles on the path, and encourages their students not to get hung up with them”.

According to most experts, the power of the Kundalini force can take many years to completely unfold and is often likened to the opening of the great and beautiful flower of the soul. Great caution is advised by almost every resource in awakening the Kundalini within as it houses immense power and spiritual abilities. Most of which the untrained lay person is not equipped to handle.

The Kundalini is historically known by the Hindus as the serpent coiled at the base of the spine. The symbol of the Caduceus symbol has been said to be an ancient representation of Kundalini physiology. When this serpent is awakened and begins to move up the spine through the Chakras this is known as “Pranic Awakening”, Prana being the energy of life and all living things which sustains existence. This energy then begins to move through the living body and spirit and ultimately to be made manifest in magick and miraculous power.

There are of course many stories of unleashing the Kundalini force by some sort of accident or major life event such as a near death experience. There are a long list of complications or symptoms associated to this experience such as emotional instability, psychological imbalance, various strange or unexplained physical sensations and muscular spasms, oddities in hyperactivity or sleep pattern as well as sexual drives. Most of those who go through this accidental awakening also find they have a profoundly deeper understanding of themselves, their universe and may even grasp concepts that were far beyond their previous skill or knowledge base.

Kundalini is believed to be activated best by a natural and specific, in not simplistic, process. And I quote “This happening of Kundalini awakening and ultimate union with a higher consciousness are described by a Sanskrit word ‘Sahaja’. This means literally ‘born with,’ spontaneous or effortless. The implication is that the entire mechanism is inborn — part of human anatomy — and is activated in a spontaneous and natural way without undue or extreme efforts.”

Most people who subscribe to the belief in Kundalini power follow a Hindu path or are at least trying to unlock this power via the disciplines of Yoga or Tantric Magick. All of these concepts can be simple to grasp but take time to fully actuate or digest. I do not suggest that you can understand the mysteries of the power of Kundalini quickly but I do believe that we all have this seed within ready to blossom in each of us.

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New Age Music

For everyone out there simply looking to relax or those of you who wish to enter a deep state of meditation...
New Age Music is a must. I myself use it for meditation, Relaxation and for my ritual magick work.
There are many New Age Music Artists out there but I have my favorites.
Along with this I also enjoy Classical Music from long ago.

Here are my favorite New Age Musical Artists.

Frank Danna

This is my favorite Cd that I use to meditate with and to use in my Ritual work.
Truly an Awesome Cd that will get you into the mood of your rituals or a serious Deep state of conciseness.
Listen to the sample track on the Cd page.... you will love it. This is my #1 pick of all.


Deva Primal

She has many Cds to choose from.
Her music is excellent for meditation or just relaxation.
Her music is based on Krishna sounds and methodical rhythms, but Premal's voice is one that resonates into the soul.
It will seduce your Body mind and soul.
The music she produces, makes me feel good and energetic afterwards.
She is my #2 pick.
Listen to some of the sample tracks!


Steven Halpern

He has so many Cds to choose from.
He has been in my collection for years.
I remember many times I would drive around and listen to his music and end up 50 miles away.
This music will send you into space.

There are so many other Artist out there. But you will have to find the ones you like the best.

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Magic And Wyrd

Book: Magic And Wyrd by Anonymous

Wyrd is the underlying fabric in the Northern/Germanic cosmology. The laws of Wyrd supercede the will of the Gods, of men and all creatures. Wyrd provides the basic structure for the Nine Worlds, and manifests itself in Yggdrasil and the Well of Urdr.

One can compare Wyrd to a song, there are many differnt ways to sing it but the basic tune remains the same. Wyrd is also frequently seen as weaving, different threads coming together on a framework to make a pattern.

Magic is one of the ways we interact with Wyrd. "Knowing" magic (in Manny Olds' words) or "predictive" magic (Groa's) is about becoming aware of the patterns in Wyrd and the disposal of individual strands in the tapestry. Spae-work and Rune-work are two of the techniques which can be used for this.

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Out Of The Shadows An Exploration Of Dark Paganism And Magick

Book: Out Of The Shadows An Exploration Of Dark Paganism And Magick by John Coughlin

So often darkness is associated with evil. Since the term evil has no place in a nature-based religion, we Pagans are forced to look beyond such stereotypes.

But what then is "darkness"? Why are so many of us drawn to themes associated with darkness such as death, mystery, wisdom, magic, and the night? These themes and symbols are empowering to many of us because they tap into the deepest reaches of our unconscious.

The goal of this book, which is a culmination of over 16 years of study and practice, is to not only share with you the author's views on Dark paganism and spirituality, but to encourage you - if not challenge you - to personalize your own belief system.

While the first part explores the aspects and spirituality of darkness, the second part of this book discusses the nature and practice of magic by exploring the underlying principles at work.


In Out of The Shadows, author John J. Coughlin trys to rebuild the balance 'Light Paganism' has created. He gives an easy and understandable description of what the Darkness and 'Dark Paganism' actually are. Though the focus of this book is 'Dark Paganism', the author in no way tries to deny or degrade Light Paganism. In fact, Coughlin actually describes it's benefits and necessities in modern paganism.

In his explanation of the Darkness, Coughlin gives information on "dark siders" including the Gothic and Vampiric Sub-Culture. He gives a clear and understandable explanation of "The Shadow" in sychological terms, as well as symbols, images, and archetypes associated with darkness. I found the section on dark deities to be especially interesting, where Coughlin offers information on specific deities from various pantheons including Celtic,Egyptian, Greek, and Hindu.

Part Two is an explanation of the nature and structure of magick. This section explains how and why magick works as well as it's limitations and psychological factors. Coughlin takes you through each step of the spellcasting process by describing what and how to conduct ritual. This section also contains information on psychic abilities, chaos magick, and sex magick.

Out of The Shadows is really two books in one. It is and exploration of Dark Paganism, but it is also a guide to magick. Because so many books are focused on Light Paganism, this text is truly ground breaking. This book does an excellent job of providing the seeker with the proper tools to explore yourself. It's goal is to suggest, if not test, you to personalize your belief system. You will learn the truth about the Darkness and Dark Paganism. It was an excellent read and I'd highly recommend it to all Pagans.

Buy John Coughlin's book: Out Of The Shadows An Exploration Of Dark Paganism And Magick

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Neo Druids In Ireland

In Ireland, neo-druids staged public gatherings for the Midsummer Solstice on the Hill of Tara, intermittently from 1996 to 2005. Currently, a number of Irish neo-druids are working with the various Save Tara Heritage campaigns to preserve the Tara-Skryne Valley from the potential environmental impact if the M3 motorway that is planned for the area goes through. The proposed construction would place a large, 38 acre, eight-lane motorway interchange within a mile (1.6 km) of the Hill, making it clearly visible from one of Ireland’s most sacred and historic sites, and irreparably damaging important archaeological evidence of Celtic and pre-Celtic history.

A number of small orders and groves exist in Ireland, with varying practices and beliefs; most of these have come into existence in the 1990s or later. Druidism in Ireland is still relatively young, is still in the process of establishing links between groves and orders, and so a stable neo-druidic community does not yet exist.

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Poetic Edda Edda Saeundar Hinns Froda

Book: Poetic Edda Edda Saeundar Hinns Froda by Benjamin Thorpe

Saemund, son of Sigfus, the reputed collector of the poems bearing his name, which is sometimes also called the Elder, and the Poetic, Edda, was of a highly distinguished family, being descended in a direct line from King Harald Hildetonn. He was born at Oddi, his paternal dwelling in the south of Iceland, between the years 1054 and 1057, or about 50 years after the establishment by law of the Christian religion in that island; hence it is easy to imagine that many heathens, or baptized favourers of the old mythic songs of heathenism, may have lived in his days and imparted to him the lays of the times of old, which his unfettered mind induced him to hand down to posterity.

The youth of Saemund was passed in travel and study, in Germany and France, and, according to some accounts, in Italy. His cousin John ogmundson, who later became first bishop of Holum, and after his death was received among the number of saints, when on his way to Rome, fell in with his youthful kinsman, and took him back with him to Iceland, in the year 1076. Saemund afterwards became a priest at Oddi, where he instructed many young men in useful learning; but the effects of which were not improbably such as to the common people might appear as witchcraft or magic: and, indeed, Saemund's predilection for the sagas and songs of the old heathen times (even for the magical ones) was so well known, that among his countrymen there were some who regarded him as a great sorcerer, though chiefly in what is called white or innocuous and defensive sorcery, a repute which still clings to his memory among the common people of Iceland, and will long adhere to it through the numerous and popular stories regarding him (some of them highly entertaining) that are orally transmitted from generation to generation.

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Revival Of Paganism In Modern Iceland

Another revival, this time based on folklore and historical research rather than on mysticist speculation, took place in the late 1960s and early 1970s. In Iceland, Asatruarfelagid, led by farmer Sveinbjorn Beinteinsson, was recognized as a religious organization by the Icelandic government in 1973. In USA, around the same period, Else Christensen began publishing "The Odinist" newsletter and Stephen McNallen began publishing a newsletter titled The Runestone. McNallen formed an organization called the Asatru Free Assembly, which was later renamed the Asatru Folk Assembly (AFA) . The AFA fractured in 1987-88, resulting in the creation of the Asatru Alliance, headed by Valgard Murray, publisher of the "Vor Tru" newsletter. Around the same time, the Ring of Troth (now simply The Troth) was founded by other former members of the AFA.

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Henge Of Keltria

Initially an offshoot of Ar nDraiocht Fein, the Henge of Keltria is a non-profit Church and the largest Celtic-focused Druid organization in the United States. They focus upon practices based upon honoring their ancestors, revering the spirits of nature, and worshipping the Gods and Goddesses in their unique manner. They are an initiatory mystery tradition. They have members and adherents throughout the United States and Canada.

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Magic Runes

Book: Magic Runes by Samael Aun Weor

I have been trying to share with you the importance of bringing the Runes and the gods/goddesses of the North into the 21st Century. No longer should we run around in the woods with our axes and swords, drinking mead (unless we want to for FUN), asking the gods/goddesses to help us. Asking the runes to help us. If we had the power to invoke Odin, Thor or TYR into our blot or our rituals. What would we do with them?

Runes and Odin and the gods/goddesses of the North belong in the 21st Century, in the Age of Aquarius, the Age of the Internet and Quantum Physics. No longer can we pray to them to do it for us. We must ask the gods and the runes how to do it and give us the energies to do it with. It is erroneous to keep the Runes shackled to the Viking Age. All the literature we have about the magic of runes is shadowed in parables, paradoxes and enigmas. The Laws of Quantum Physics broke through the mystery of the magic of runes symbols. Runes were never meant for divination. Runes were never meant to be used as an alphabet.

Runes are Universal Creative Energies. Magical rune symbols are just that. Magical rune symbols that connect us to the runic energy of the Quantum Ocean (Mind of God).

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Modern Beliefs Of Pagans

I am not presumptuous enough to believe that these should be everyone's beliefs, nor am I egotistical enough to believe that these beliefs are mine alone. However, they are mine. I have formed these beliefs as an individual from the experiences in my life.

Organized Religion:

A mass of people led by individuals that may, or may not, have your best interests at heart. Usually the guiding religious leaders are so high up, and so far removed from the public that it's difficult (at best) to distinguish one from the other. I avoid organized religion because these groups have been known to use their influence or manpower for not so lofty goals. Furthermore, I think a set package of beliefs (a.k.a. Moral Combo Meal) ends up with a lot of people not really knowing what they believe in (as opposed to what they think they should believe in). To my mind this is a sad state of affairs. Some people do need an organized religion for guidance in their life. For them, I guess the system works fine.

Religious Leaders:

These people are just like everyone else... People. Have some used others for their own ends? Yes. Have they used their position or a connection with their deity to convince people to do their bidding? Certainly. Do some religious leaders just want to save souls, and guide people to do the right thing? Absolutely. Do some just want to do their part to help others, and make the world a better place? Without question. So honestly, it's impossible to know about an individual until you have met and interacted with that individual, just like everyone else. However, do keep in mind that any world leader (Such as the President of the United States, or the Pope), will only get the power they have if they want that power. This process also usually involves a lot of toe-squishing.

Jesus:

Good guy, lots of great ideas. An awesome philosopher, and an excellent teacher. I'm glad he was around. Was he the son of God? Yes, just as each one of us is the son or daughter of God. Is he my savior? No, he's dead... Besides, what do I need saving from? I don't believe that I'm being judged by any greater power, nor do I believe in Hell.

Gardner:

Gardner was an intelligent man with a creative mind. He was also a dirty old man who at times had questionable methods, and even more questionable motivations. Don't get me wrong, many of us owe a lot to Gardner, and I do respect him. There are times though, to me, some of his ideas seem ill-concieved or improperly researched.

Homosexuality:

I am not a homosexual, but I don't mind if anyone else is. These, to me, are the three blessings of relationships: You are blessed once if you know who you are. You are blessed twice if you have come to terms with this, are comfortable with it, and find it a source of strength and identity. You are blessed thrice if you can use this as part of a starting point for a mutually intimate relationship.

Abortion:

Not right for me, but mostly because that has to do with my views on sex, and whom I'd be having sex with. As with many other things, the morals that really count are the morals of the individuals involved, and how they feel about the procedure.

Cloning:

Cloning is the abandonment of the cycle of Nature that causes bubbles in evolution. The two most popular reasons would be to either create the illusion of immortality or to generate a subservient workforce of some kind. This concept is a near abomination to my mind.

Drugs:

Drugs (including alcohol) are for those who wish to alter their state of being, either physically or mentally. Personally, I like who I am, and I like my current state of being so I largely refrain from all kinds of drugs. I only take cold or headache medicine when I am really miserable (and thus wish to change my state of being). I make a special effort to avoid habit-forming or addictive drugs (the more potent/addictive, the more I avoid them).

Guns:

Guns are designed to kill things. I've gone out target shooting with my brother. Some people really get a kick out of doing this. I think target practice with a bow is more challenging and interesting. Some people say guns have their place, and I'm sure they do. That's fine with me, so long as their place is as far away from me as possible.

Firearm Rights:

The 2nd Amendment to the Constitution was designed to allow the populace to hold a revolution if they thought there was a need. In this day and age, without proper weapons a revolution would be near impossible. Therefore, to uphold the purpose of the 2nd Amendment it makes sense that citizens be allowed access to military-grade firepower.

Cell Phones:

Driving while talking on a cell phone poses a danger to yourself and to those around you. Talk or drive, not both.

Vegetarianism:

I was made to be an omnivore. I crave meat, I can consume it and digest it without difficulty. I have no problem with this. Being cute is not an excuse to not be nutritional (or tasty). To sustain our own life, other lives, (plant or animal) must end. This is the way Mother Nature works. Some would prefer plant deaths to animal, and that's fine for them. Ok, a good vegetarian diet can be better than a good omnivore diet. Oh well.

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Welcome To The Troth Honoring The Northern Tradition

Book: Welcome To The Troth Honoring The Northern Tradition by The Troth

The Troth is dedicated to exploring, practicing and promoting the pre-Christian religion of the Germanic peoples, who include the English, Norwegians, Icelanders, Swedes and Germans, among others. This religion is known by various names including Asatru, Heathenry, the Elder Troth, and others. There are many variations in beliefs and practices within this faith, and many ways of describing and classifying these differences. One thing we all share a defining personal loyalty to, or "Troth" with, the Gods and goddesses of the Northlands, such as Odin, Thor, Frigga, Freyja and many others. We also have a deep respect for our Germanic religious, cultural and historical heritage; and a strong determination to practice the moral principles followed by our noble predecessors, including Courage, Truth, Honor, Loyalty, Discipline, Hospitality, Industriousness, Self-reliance, and Steadfastness.

In order to help modern Heathens better to understand and practice the Elder Troth, we publish a quarterly journal, Idunna, and carry on other publishing projects. The best-known such project to date is Our Troth, a collective work of over 700 pages incorporating the research, thought and experience of many Troth members and friends, currently available online. Back issues of Idunna are available, and we also publish pamphlets covering several aspects of practicing Heathenry in contemporary society, including a Heathen’s Almanac, due out in Fall 2003.

In addition to publishing activities, the Troth conducts a training program for prospective Heathen clergy, incorporating study, training and experience in lore knowledge, theology, ceremonial practice, group organization, and counseling, and leading to certification after an extensive evaluation and final examination.

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Norse Mythology A To Z

Book: Norse Mythology A To Z by Kathleen Daly

"Norse mythology A to Z, Third Edition" examines the characters, objects, and places whose stories make up the folklore of the Norse people, who lived in the region known today as Scandinavia. Passed down through the generations by word of mouth and finally written down in the 13th century and later, these myths include tales of gods and goddesses; heroes, giants, and dwarfs; and serpents and dragons that inhabit enchanted realms. This colorful volume brings to life many of these Nordic myths. Entries of this title include: the most famous gods and goddesses, such as Odin, Thor, and Freya; plants and animals important to Norse mythology, such as the oak tree and the eagle; stories and poems, such as "Treasures of the Dwarfs" and the "Poetic Edda"; and, much more.

The term mythology can refer to either the study of myths or a body of myths. For example, comparative mythology is the study of connections between myths from different cultures, whereas Greek mythology is the body of myths from ancient Greece.

The term "myth" is often used colloquially to refer to a false story; however, the academic use of the term generally does not pass judgment on its truth or falsity. In the study of folklore, a myth is a symbolic narrative explaining how the world and humankind came to be in their present form. Many scholars in other fields use the term "myth" in somewhat different ways. In a very broad sense, the word can refer to any traditional story

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The Arctic Home In The Vedas

Book: The Arctic Home In The Vedas by Lokamanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak

On the occasion of the birth centenary of Lok. B. G. TILAK, we have the proud privilege to offer to the discriminating readers this 2nd reprint of his famous work “The Arctic Home In The Vedas,” published by the Author in 1903 and reprinted in 1925 (J. S. TILAK)

The present volume is a sequel to my Orion or Researches into the Antiquity of the Vedas, published in 1893. The estimate of Vedic antiquity then generally current amongst Vedic scholars was based on the assignment of arbitrary period of time to the different strata into which the Vedic literature is divided; and it was believed that the oldest of these strata could not, at the best, be older than 2400 B.C. In my Orion, however, I tried to show that all such estimates, besides being too modest, were vague and uncertain, and that the astronomical statements found in the Vedic literature supplied us with far more reliable data for correctly ascertaining the ages of the different periods of Vedic literature. These astronomical statements, it was further shown, unmistakably pointed out that the Vernal equinox was in the constellation of M?iga or Orion (about 4500 B.C.) during the period of the Vedic hymns, and that it had receded to the constellation of the K?ittikas, or the Pleiades (about 2500 B.C.) in the days of the Brahmanas. Naturally enough these results were, at first, received by scholars in a skeptical spirit. But my position was strengthened when it was found that Dr. Jacobi, of Bonn, had independently arrived at the same conclusion, and, soon after, scholars like Prof. Bloomfield, M. Barth, the late Dr. Bulher and others, more or less freely, acknowledged the force of my arguments.

Dr. Thibaut, the late Dr. Whitney and a few others were, however, of opinion that the evidence adduced by me was not conclusive. But the subsequent discovery, by my friend the late Mr. S. B. Dixit, of a passage in the Shatapatha Brahmana, plainly stating that the Kaittikas never swerved, in those days, from the due east i.e., the Vernal equinox, has served to dispel all lingering doubts regarding the age of the Brahmanas; while another Indian astronomer, Mr. V. B. Ketkar, in a recent number of the Journal of the Bombay Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society, has mathematically worked out the statement in the Taittiriya Brahmana (III, 1, 1, 5), that Boihaspati, or the planet Jupiter, was first discovered when confronting or nearly occulting the star Tishya, and shown that the observation was possible only at about 4650 B.C., thereby remarkably confirming my estimate of the oldest period of Vedic literature. After this, the high antiquity of the oldest Vedic period may, I think, be now taken as fairly established. (Lokamanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak)

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The Pagan Credo

1. Paganism is a religion (or field of related religions) in its own right, being traceable from prehistoric times through most ancient and modern cultures and making a continuing contribution to the spiritual evolution of our species.

2. It is not rigid or dogmatic in form, its exact expression depends on the individual Pagan, or willing cooperating group of Pagans. This credo is therefore itself not dogmatic but an attempt to describe the mainstream characteristics of Pagan philosophy.

3. Paganism aims to offer a way to recognise and attune with the manifold forces of nature, which already exist within and without us and which are vital to our survival, fulfilment and evolution. By celebrating the seasons and becoming one with other living creatures Pagans synchronise intimately with the planet, liberate their personalities and magnify their perceptions and talents in the interests of themselves, their groups and communities and humankind as a whole.

4. Paganism believes in the same Divine Creative Force as anyone else, because if there is one there can only be one. Like any other religion, Paganism personifies this Ultimate as a means to attuning oneself to it, because it cannot be apprehended directly, except perhaps be brief flashes of intuition.

5. Paganism's basic personification of this Ultimate is in its creative polarisation of male and female aspects, as the Father God and Mother Goddess. The God represents the fertilising, energising, analysing, intellectual, left-brain-function aspects. The Goddess represents the formative, nourishing, synthesising, intuitive, right-brain-function aspects.

6. As above so below; this basic Divine polarisation is the primal cause of all manifestation and it is reflected at all levels of being, including ourselves.

7. Pagans make use of many different God and-Goddess forms as tuning signals to different aspects of the essential God and Goddess. These forms vary according to cultural, geographical and personal backgrounds and are 'usually' (and naturally, since men and women aspire to emulate them) envisaged in perfected human form; but they are all valid. They are real in the sense that if one attunes oneself to them sincerely, they are vitalised and empowered by the Ultimate of which they represent aspects. They are not idols but are the numinous, archetypal symbols which are vital (or in everyday language, "God-given") components of the human Collective Unconscious.

8. Pagans do not worship the Devil; that would be totally incompatible with the principle of paragraphs 4 and 7 above. the Devil of monotheistic religion does not exist in Pagan philosophy. Pagans regard evil as an imbalance to be corrected, not as an independent force or entity.

9. Like all religions, Paganism believes in multi-level reality. These levels are generally defined in Pagan thinking as the spiritual, mental, astral, etheric and physical levels. Each level has its own laws but the laws of different levels do not conflict with each other; as for example the laws of mathematics, chemistry and biology are different but do not conflict with each other. Pagans believe that be understanding these laws and their interaction one can achieve results generally defined as magical.

10. Pagans regard all these levels as equally holy, and essential parts of the cosmic spectrum of manifestation. They totally reject the Dualistic concept which equates the spiritual with good and matter with evil.

11. Pagan philosophy and worship therefore tends to be strongly Nature-based. Mother Earth is not a temporary stopping-place, but our home, of which we are a vital living part, and for the health and protection of which we bear a constant responsibility.

12. The Pagan view of the Cosmos is essentially organic. The Ultimate is its creative life-force; but all manifestation is part of the total organism. Our own planet can be regarded as one limb or organ of it, and we ourselves (and all Earth's other creatures and components) as cells within that limb or organ. Our health depends on its health and vice versa.

13. Paganism therefore does not envisage a gulf between Creator and Created. The spectrum is continuous and interdependent. Each individual is of the same nature as the Source and is capable of being a channel for it.

14. On the basis of all the foregoing, most Pagans regard all sincere religions as different paths to the same truths. The particular Deity-personifications, symbology and meaningful mythology which suit one person as tuning-signals to the Ultimate may not suit another. Pagans are therefore essentially ecumenical, non-proselytising and tolerant.

15. This does not mean that Pagans cannot voice constructive criticism of the attitudes of some dogmatic systems. Pagans reject as dangerous and destructive, in particular, the belief that one's own religion is the only true one, and that all others are devilish and therefore to be condemned and persecuted.

16. Pagans lay more emphasis on continuing spiritual development than one instant revelation, though they accept that the latter can sometimes happen - usually as a breakthrough to consciousness of a longer unconscious accumulation.

17. Most Pagans believe in reincarnation in one form or another. This belief further strengthens Pagans' attitude to Earth as our continuing home for the foreseeable future, rather than as a temporary and restrictive stopping place. It is also a powerful moral force because it emphasises that all offences against other individuals, the community or the Earth and all failure to learn lessons must ultimately be put right by oneself, and cannot be evaded by bodily death.

18. Pagans' ethical attitude is often summed up in one sentence: "An it harm none, do what you will." this means achieving full self-development while accepting equally full responsibility towards one's fellow- humans, one's fellow-creatures and the Earth itself. Love for all of these is the foundation-stone of Paganism. In particular, Pagans feel a special responsibility towards the young; their vulnerability must not be abused and they must be helped to develop themselves according to their own natures, so that when they are mature they can choose their own paths - and their own religious forms - with maximum awareness and without pressurisation from their elders.

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The Nature Of Folk Religion

In the modern Western countries, religion is largely an individual matter. People meditate or pray, seek self-improvement, search for personal spiritual enlightenment, or find individual salvation. Religion is only a set of beliefs and practices, which can be chosen by the seeker as easily as we buy a new car - and changed for a new one even more easily.

This is a very new notion, one that has risen in direct proportion to our separation from nature and from our ancestors. To people in traditional cultures, this self-centered interpretation of religion is strange indeed.

Certainly all spiritual or religious paths have an individual component that is valid and worthy of pursuit. In America and the rest of the West, however, we often focus on the individual to the exclusion of the group aspect. This doesn't mean that we don't yearn after community; many neighborhood churches provide this for their members, and this role as a provider of community has become even more vital as our families disintegrate under the pressures of modern living.

What Westerners do not understand is that folk religions - native religions, indigenous religions, whatever you want to call them - are linked to a particular cultural and biological group...a people. Religion is not something apart from the life of the group; indeed, it is one more manifestation of the group's existence. Religion springs from the very nature of the people and is an expression of the totality of their experience from the beginning of time.

Folk religions are deeply ancestral. Those who have gone before, those forefathers and foremothers of times past, are still connected to the tribe or nation. The bonds of kinship transcend space and time. Indeed, many of us who follow Asatru believe that the ancestors are continually reborn into the family or clan. There is an interweaving of ancestry throughout lifetimes and across generations. We have been here, together in this world, before. Blood is not only thicker than water, it is stronger than death and distance!

From this perspective, it is unthinkable that religion should be seen as just an accessory, something to be shucked off like a coat or a hat. Rather, religion becomes a manifestation of our very essence, a part of us like our legs or our head. Asatru is not what we believe, it is what we are.

It is only natural that we seek out the spiritual path that our ancestors walked. On the most mundane level, we are more like those forebears than we are like anyone else. We carry their essence. One can try to rationalize this by pointing out that so many things about humans are influenced by heredity, and perhaps that is part of it, but ultimately the connection is spiritual. We are linked to those ancestors and to our descendants by special bonds that we do not share with others. When we find the ways of our own people, we discover things we cannot find anywhere else.
It is these two factors - the focus on the group nature of religion as a counterbalance to the individual aspect, and the importance of the ancestors, that set folk religions apart from modern, rootless, artificial constructs.

Asatru is not just a belief or a set of practices, it is an expression of who we are as men and women of European heritage.

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After Life In Roman Paganism

Book: After Life In Roman Paganism by Franz Cumont

1922. Lectures delivered at Yale University on the Silliman Foundation. The author was invited to lecture at New Haven during the month of March 1921 on a subject relating to religious history. He chose the ideas current in Roman paganism concerning the lot of the soul after death. Lectures included are: historical introduction; after life in the tomb; the nether world; celestial immortality; winning of immortality; untimely death; journey to the beyond; sufferings of hell and metempsychosis; felicity of the blessed.

About the Author: Belgian archaeologist and historian FRANZ-VALERY-MARIE CUMONT (1869-1947) wrote numerous books, among them Texts and Illustrated Monuments Relating to the Mysteries of Mithra (1900), considered his masterwork.
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The Reality Of The Holy Powers

What makes us think that the Holy Powers honored by our ancestors actually exist? Here are a few reasons -

1. Our ancestors - hundreds of generations of them - considered the Gods and goddesses to be as real as their own family, as real as the mountains looming over their homestead, or the clouds blowing through the sky. Of course, it is easy today to say that our ancestors were stupid, or at best ignorant and naive, but can that really be true? The human brain has not significantly changed over the last few thousand years.

In terms of innate intelligence, some of our brighter forebears could have invented the theory of relativity or quantum mechanics a thousand years ago. This didn't happen, of course - because the conceptual foundations had not yet been laid by others, and because our ancestors were busy doing other things, such as growing food and fighting off the tribe from the next valley over. Discovering quantum physics is one thing, but inventing the necessary mathematics and all of classical physics at the same time, while planning raids and sowing the crops, is a little much to ask! Lack of brainpower, per se, was not the problem
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2. Tribal Europeans (and just about everyone else in the world) lived in an environment that selected intensely for intelligence and hard-headed practicality. Stupid people tended to make mistakes that got them killed. Impractical dreamers likewise met untimely and tragic ends. By comparison, we live much more protected lives, insulated from the effects of the natural environment and from hostile people armed with axes and swords. Fools, self-deceivers, the gullible, and dreamers did not fare well in early society. The ancient Germans and Celts are not likely to have believed in the Gods and Goddesses unless they had some reason to do so. We on the other hand, living in an environment with much less evolutionary stress, are much more likely to believe in superstitions like dialectical materialism and the good intentions of politicians.

3. The enemies of the Gods - the Christian missionaries and later chroniclers - believed the Gods and Goddesses were real. The Christian kings of Norway, tyrants who made free folk into royal subjects and forced them to give up the old ways or die, met Thor and Odin in mysterious encounters that have come down to us in the sagas. One can argue, of course, that the stories are made up, but the very existence of the stories clearly reflect a belief that the old Gods were real. Nowhere in the surviving sagas do the Christian writers think of Odin, Thor, Frey, or any of the others as delusions. In fact, the oath required of the Saxons upon converting to Christianity specifically renounced the old deities, thus by implication acknowledging their existence.

4. The Gods and Goddesses manifest to living men and women today. The old religion of the pre-Christian Nordic and Germanic lands has been revived in an organized form for hardly thirty years, but the might of the Gods and Goddesses has shown itself many times. These instances are of varying types and qualities. When we make requests of the Holy Powers, we often get dramatic results. In other words, our prayers are answered. People get healed, children are born, difficulties are resolved, the future is foretold, and so forth. In short, the Gods work!

Other times, the Gods and Goddesses (and other entities described in the Nordic lore, for that matter) actually appear to people in visions. You can call these delusions or hallucinations, but they are generally associated with real results that happen, then or later, in the real world.

Finally, there are cases, admittedly rare, when Gods and Goddesses manifest to humans under conditions that do not appear to be visions at all - when they are as real as your house or the rock on which you stub your toe.

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