| One problem that has been frequently encountered is that of people not knowing what one is talking about when he or she makes a reference to Asatru. Here then is a brief overview of this growing yet largely unknown religion. |
| Asatru centers on the beliefs of the ancient Scandinavian and Teutonic people. Those cultures worshipped the gods and goddesses known as the Aesir and Vanir, who helped give them the strength, wisdom, and determination to prosper in the harsh climate of the North. |
| Asatru has been unknown to the public at large mainly due to the expansion of Christianity in Central and Eastern Europe circa 750-900 c.e..* During that time, various kings, including Charlemagne, converted those who practiced the old religion to the Christian faith. |
| Sometimes the converts chose Christianity willingly, sometimes violently. Many who would not convert were persecuted, and even put to death. Eventually, the religion was suppressed throughout Central Europe. Iceland, which had been settled by the Scandinavians in 984 c.e., converted to Christianity by mutual consent in 1000 c.e. In some areas of the northern countries, particularly Sweden and Finland, the old ways held out until the 13th century c.e. In all cases, however, the old folk ways were still practiced, though not in public, and many of the traditions were acquired by the Christian church, such as the Yule tree and mistletoe being used for Christmas. |
| Gradually, over several hundred years, interest in the ancient ways was rekindled. |
| Asatru as it is known today is a reconstructionist religion. Virtually all of the rituals and practices that our ancestors knew have been either forgotten or destroyed. Its current form is due to the efforts of those who realized the value and wisdom inherent in rediscovering our Northern European heritage. |
| If one is Asatru, or "true to the Aesir," then he/she is devoted to learning of and knowing the Norse gods and goddesses and the wisdom they have passed on to us through the Eddas and Sagas. One also gives thanks and pays respect to the gods during the great blessings of the year, which coincide with the changing of the seasons. |
| The Norse gods and goddesses, also known as the Aesir and Vanir, live in the realms of Asgard and Vanaheim. In the legends, they are credited with the creation of Earth, known as Midgard, and Humans, whom they guided and taught. |
| To discuss the Gods and Goddesses could take up an entire page for each one. There are many books that go into detail on the Aesir and Vanir, some of which will be listed at the bottom of this page. |
| Part of Asatru is living one's life according to the Nine Noble Virtues, which are a list of qualities that most exemplify a good and honorable person. Over the centuries, that list has changed with the times, but for the most part, they are: |
| For more on the Gods and Asatru, check out these most informative books: |
| Teutonic Religion by Kveldulf Gundarsson. Currently out of print, but copies have been known to turn up on eBay and amazon.com. |
| Gods & Myths of Northern Europe by H.R. Ellis Davidson, published by Penguin Books, also published by Barnes & Noble under the title Gods & Myths of the Viking Age |
| A Book of Troth by Edred Thorsson, Published by Runa-Raven Press. |
| Each of these books in turn contains the names of more books, should you wish to investigate further. |
| * Common Era. Those who prefer not to use terms that utilize a single religion as a historical reference point use this term along with b.c.e., Before Common Era, in place of b.c. and a.d. |
