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Ásatrú for Beginners: A Modern Heathen's Guide to the Ancient Northern Way
Explore the ancient gods and goddesses of Ásatrú—and find your spiritual path
Ásatrú is a spiritual belief system based around the pre-Christian folklore and mythology of Northern Europe. It gained popularity in the 1970s across Europe and North America and is still thriving today, sought out for its non-dogmatic structure and emphasis on individuality, hospitality, and community-based values.
Ásatrú for Beginners is a newcomer's guide to this spirituality. It breaks down everything from the history and traditions to the gods and goddesses, ancient texts, sacred rituals, and the use of runes with simple language anyone can dive into. It's an inclusive and practical guide that makes it easy to apply Ásatrú in your modern-day life and find greater spiritual satisfaction.
Ásatrú for Beginners
Enter the world of Ásatrú with a simple guide that puts you on the path to spiritual health.
Ásatrú is a spiritual belief system based around the pre-Christian folklore and mythology of Northern Europe. It gained popularity in the 1970s across Europe and North America and is still thriving today, sought out for its non-dogmatic structure and emphasis on individuality, hospitality, and community-based values.
Ásatrú for Beginners is a newcomer's guide to this spirituality. It breaks down everything from the history and traditions to the gods and goddesses, ancient texts, sacred rituals, and the use of runes with simple language anyone can dive into. It's an inclusive and practical guide that makes it easy to apply Ásatrú in your modern-day life and find greater spiritual satisfaction.
Ásatrú for Beginners
Enter the world of Ásatrú with a simple guide that puts you on the path to spiritual health.
144 pages, Paperback
First published August 25, 2020
258 people are currently reading
393 people want to read
About the author
Mathias Nordvig
10 books23 followersDr. Mathias Nordvig is a visiting assistant professor of Nordic and Arctic studies at the Department of Germanic and Slavic Languages and Literatures at University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder). He teaches subjects on Viking history, Nordic mythology, folklore, Arctic culture and society, and Danish language. Dr. Nordvig earned his PhD in Nordic mythology in 2014 at Aarhus University in Denmark, his native country. He moved to Colorado in 2015.
Dr. Nordvig has a BA. degree in Nordic languages and literatures with a minor in Viking Studies. His MA. degree includes studies in medieval Icelandic history and saga literature, Viking Age archaeology, Nordic mythology, and Old Norse language. He wrote his PhD dissertation on the relationship between Old Norse myth and the Icelandic environment. The dissertation is titled: Of Fire and Water. The Old Norse Mythical Worldview in and Eco-mythological Perspective.
Dr. Nordvig has a BA. degree in Nordic languages and literatures with a minor in Viking Studies. His MA. degree includes studies in medieval Icelandic history and saga literature, Viking Age archaeology, Nordic mythology, and Old Norse language. He wrote his PhD dissertation on the relationship between Old Norse myth and the Icelandic environment. The dissertation is titled: Of Fire and Water. The Old Norse Mythical Worldview in and Eco-mythological Perspective.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
January 21, 2021
I thought that this was a good, down-to-Earth introduction to the practice of Ásatrú. It's the second book that I read on this topic, and I think that it hit the right amount of information density for people who are unfamiliar with the modern practice — my one suggestion would be a few more explicit ritual formulae for household worship, as it's simple, for the purposes of getting newcomers started, to provide generics without being overly restraining. (I'm not intending to practice Ásatrú, but wanted to be more familiar with the religion and understand how to approach the Norse Gods.) The author, Dr. Nordvig, was raised in Ásatrú, which was another big plus. I was raised in Wicca, and it's still extremely rare to see other people in the second generation of the cluster of NRMs that started gaining steam in the latter part of the 20th century. In fact, I texted my middle sister a photo of the page where he described his background with no fewer than three exclamation points. It explains why he writes in such a down-to-Earth way, as I think people who converted to a pagan religion as adults have a slightly different mindset than those of us who have been praying to Gods in a supportive family environment with exposure to group ritual since we were kids.
The other highly interesting elements involved Scandinavian history and cultural practice; I'm Scandi on my mom's side, and this made a lot click. For example, I didn't realize Advent was such a huge thing in Sweden despite going to Scandinavian Butik for food and stuff occasionally and seeing the enormous Advent candle inventories. My family is very Americanized, and since we're pagan, the only things we do are some secular Christmas things, nisse/tomte and the julbok, and Saint Lucia; learning about the pre-winter solstice ritual practices that have developed Sweden was unexpectedly heartwarming.
The repeated emphasis on the nondogmatic nature of Ásatrú and the positive elements of community-building and establishing connections to ethical teachings is probably useful for readers healing from Christianity, even though the nondogmatic things were a bit taxing from the perspective of someone who isn't in that demographic bracket. The belief demographic divide between practitioners in Scandinavia (more atheistic) and elsewhere (more theistic) was also startling, and I wonder if that will shift as more generations are raised in the religion.
Overall, the book provides a lot of food for thought and is successful at helping readers pathfind towards where to go next.
The other highly interesting elements involved Scandinavian history and cultural practice; I'm Scandi on my mom's side, and this made a lot click. For example, I didn't realize Advent was such a huge thing in Sweden despite going to Scandinavian Butik for food and stuff occasionally and seeing the enormous Advent candle inventories. My family is very Americanized, and since we're pagan, the only things we do are some secular Christmas things, nisse/tomte and the julbok, and Saint Lucia; learning about the pre-winter solstice ritual practices that have developed Sweden was unexpectedly heartwarming.
The repeated emphasis on the nondogmatic nature of Ásatrú and the positive elements of community-building and establishing connections to ethical teachings is probably useful for readers healing from Christianity, even though the nondogmatic things were a bit taxing from the perspective of someone who isn't in that demographic bracket. The belief demographic divide between practitioners in Scandinavia (more atheistic) and elsewhere (more theistic) was also startling, and I wonder if that will shift as more generations are raised in the religion.
Overall, the book provides a lot of food for thought and is successful at helping readers pathfind towards where to go next.
October 22, 2020
It was great to read a book on Heathenism written by a scandinavian and scholar. The different perspective was interesting and refreshing. The basic info is solid and the there's an abundance of resources in the back as well. I just wish the book had more detail/info in it but then I guess it wouldn't be a beginner book anymore.
February 16, 2024
Utterly Fascinating 😍 🧐
January 11, 2021
Very good book. I was very curious to learn about Heathenism and this is a good start. Only reason I didn’t give it a 5 star was just the fact it leaves you with more questions. Not the authors fault but just letting peopleknow you will not have all the answers in this book. It’s very intro.
September 12, 2020
I’ve spent many years reading heathen recommended reading lists, and what I loved about this book, is that it really is a fantastic 101 option for a new heathen. It brings forth a lot of the pertinent history, and summarizes relevant scholarly information in a way that is digestible. This allows the reader to think for themselves, without having to do as much “homework” (although, you still probably should).
I particularly enjoyed that translations of the source texts were provided in both languages. I enjoyed that the book was in color. It’s a small book, which worried me, but he packed in quite a lot of info! It was very interesting as an American heathen to read the perspective of a Scandinavian heathen. I appreciated how open he was about the racist nastiness that exists in heathenry, and openly disavowed it.
I don’t agree with all of his perspectives, but the beauty of the book is he provided decent scholarship in a really manageable read. It is honestly the best primer for modern heathenry I’ve read, and while it isn’t perfect, and probably won’t align with reconstructionists views, I will always recommend this as a starting place for new heathens cause it’s better than most other “accessible” options out there.
I particularly enjoyed that translations of the source texts were provided in both languages. I enjoyed that the book was in color. It’s a small book, which worried me, but he packed in quite a lot of info! It was very interesting as an American heathen to read the perspective of a Scandinavian heathen. I appreciated how open he was about the racist nastiness that exists in heathenry, and openly disavowed it.
I don’t agree with all of his perspectives, but the beauty of the book is he provided decent scholarship in a really manageable read. It is honestly the best primer for modern heathenry I’ve read, and while it isn’t perfect, and probably won’t align with reconstructionists views, I will always recommend this as a starting place for new heathens cause it’s better than most other “accessible” options out there.
March 1, 2022
"It was okay." - 2 out of 5 stars.
Just too barebones. I understand that it is "for beginners", but it just still felt way too light weight for me.
Props to the author for actually getting a PhD in Norse Mythology, being a fellow Asatruar, and also being from Colorado.
I'm not trying to be overly rude, but I've been practicing Asatru since 2007 and readers will get about as much out of this book as a quick Google search of Norse Gods/Goddesses and skimming the Wikipedia page for Asatru.
+1 star for speaking the language, having your PhD in the field, being from CO, and for briefly doing a touch and go on the Havamal.
I would not recommend this book for someone who is curious about Asatru and wants to learn more. Especially so if you follow this belief system and are even somewhat knowledgeable, as you will be severely disappointed.
On the flipside, Living Asatru by Greg (Dux) Shelter is worth its weight in gold.
Just too barebones. I understand that it is "for beginners", but it just still felt way too light weight for me.
Props to the author for actually getting a PhD in Norse Mythology, being a fellow Asatruar, and also being from Colorado.
I'm not trying to be overly rude, but I've been practicing Asatru since 2007 and readers will get about as much out of this book as a quick Google search of Norse Gods/Goddesses and skimming the Wikipedia page for Asatru.
+1 star for speaking the language, having your PhD in the field, being from CO, and for briefly doing a touch and go on the Havamal.
I would not recommend this book for someone who is curious about Asatru and wants to learn more. Especially so if you follow this belief system and are even somewhat knowledgeable, as you will be severely disappointed.
On the flipside, Living Asatru by Greg (Dux) Shelter is worth its weight in gold.
September 11, 2020
This book is written very much like a textbook and it definitely reads like one. I found myself avoiding it to read other books. I don’t feel that the title of this book really fits it. It’s not exactly a beginner’s guide, but more of a history of northern magic.
I’ve only recently become interested in Asatru and, although this book was definitely informative on the various traditions, it was rather dull. I was exhausted by the repeated breakdowns of the language. I will say that I learned quite a bit from it, but I would have liked for it to be a little easier to read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve only recently become interested in Asatru and, although this book was definitely informative on the various traditions, it was rather dull. I was exhausted by the repeated breakdowns of the language. I will say that I learned quite a bit from it, but I would have liked for it to be a little easier to read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
January 23, 2022
A book that covers some basics, but other than that, it doesn't tell you much.
I think in this day and age, it's important that beginners are warned about the minority within pagan groups that try to portray the religion as something that has racist/far right views. Asatru's homeland is Iceland, a very liberal/anti-racist place that has been described as a "gay-rights paradise" (IcelandMonitor's article, Pagan and humanist gay weddings). I think this book could have included the general view in Iceland about Asatru, which contrasts with some (not all) non-Icelandic pagans that I've seen portrayed in the media, online, etc. as "Nazis". If I'm correct, many Icelandic Asatruar believe that National Socialists/"Nazis" were Christians, not pagans, and that racism is viewed as a Christian thing. It's possible that there were a few "occultist" National Socialists, but regardless, SS general Karl von Wiligut hunted down pagans. Pagans were forced in camps, and wore a black star, alongside the communists and lesbians, as they were all viewed as "politicals" (Asatru: A Beginner's Guide to the Heathen Path by Erin Lale).
The Asatruar fight for supporting gay weddings should also be mentioned, "Both Ásatrúarfélagið and the Icelandic Ethical Humanist Association were instrumental in the legalization of same-sex marriage in Iceland." (https : //archive DOT is/2JKy8). Ásatrúarfélagið is the Icelandic religious organization of heathenry, which is now headed by Hilmar Örn Hilmarsson, who said “There has been a huge increase in demand for same-sex wedding ceremonies in the last year – an explosion really”. Asatruar are bringing change and progressive values to Iceland, and this info would really put everything one learns about the religion into context.
I think it's so important to share this background for beginners to Asatru, so that they don't get steered down the wrong path, or turn away from it if they see it being misrepresented by others (online or offline) as something it's not.
I think in this day and age, it's important that beginners are warned about the minority within pagan groups that try to portray the religion as something that has racist/far right views. Asatru's homeland is Iceland, a very liberal/anti-racist place that has been described as a "gay-rights paradise" (IcelandMonitor's article, Pagan and humanist gay weddings). I think this book could have included the general view in Iceland about Asatru, which contrasts with some (not all) non-Icelandic pagans that I've seen portrayed in the media, online, etc. as "Nazis". If I'm correct, many Icelandic Asatruar believe that National Socialists/"Nazis" were Christians, not pagans, and that racism is viewed as a Christian thing. It's possible that there were a few "occultist" National Socialists, but regardless, SS general Karl von Wiligut hunted down pagans. Pagans were forced in camps, and wore a black star, alongside the communists and lesbians, as they were all viewed as "politicals" (Asatru: A Beginner's Guide to the Heathen Path by Erin Lale).
The Asatruar fight for supporting gay weddings should also be mentioned, "Both Ásatrúarfélagið and the Icelandic Ethical Humanist Association were instrumental in the legalization of same-sex marriage in Iceland." (https : //archive DOT is/2JKy8). Ásatrúarfélagið is the Icelandic religious organization of heathenry, which is now headed by Hilmar Örn Hilmarsson, who said “There has been a huge increase in demand for same-sex wedding ceremonies in the last year – an explosion really”. Asatruar are bringing change and progressive values to Iceland, and this info would really put everything one learns about the religion into context.
I think it's so important to share this background for beginners to Asatru, so that they don't get steered down the wrong path, or turn away from it if they see it being misrepresented by others (online or offline) as something it's not.
January 2, 2024
This primer on Asatru, or more accurately old world philosophies and practices from the Nordic countries (Iceland, Germany, Norway, Sweden, etc.) is a fantastic introduction. Dr. Nordvig maintains a relatable and down-to-earth tone while providing information from a non-dogmatic, scholarly and historically-based perspective. He provides an overview of significant aspects of Asatru, emphasizing and normalizing the personalized adaptations of traditional customs and exploring how practices have evolved to provide foundational moral and ethical guidance and spiritual expression for generations of diverse individuals worldwide.
Throughout the text, he directly addresses misconceptions and misinformation, including racism, dogmatism, and often misinterpreted historical context. I appreciate his transparency in identifying aspects of ancient traditions we simply do not have adequate evidence or frame of reference to effectively understand or draw definitive conclusions about.
This book is a quick read, with no words wasted, providing a compass that points toward source material for further deeper study. The references and resources were thoughtfully curated. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in Nordic history, philosophy, and/or spirituality.
Throughout the text, he directly addresses misconceptions and misinformation, including racism, dogmatism, and often misinterpreted historical context. I appreciate his transparency in identifying aspects of ancient traditions we simply do not have adequate evidence or frame of reference to effectively understand or draw definitive conclusions about.
This book is a quick read, with no words wasted, providing a compass that points toward source material for further deeper study. The references and resources were thoughtfully curated. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in Nordic history, philosophy, and/or spirituality.
January 4, 2023
This book is exactly what it promises to be: a well-rounded beginner’s guide to modern Norse-based spirituality, known as Ásatrú or Heathenry.
The author, Dr. Mathias Nordvig, is a Danish practitioner of Ásatrú who currently lives in the United States, as well as a Nordic Studies Professor and the co-host of Nordic Mythology Podcast. The perspective he brings to the book is that of both a scholar and a modern practitioner.
Among the things I liked best about this book:
- Provides a solid overview of Old Norse lore, worldview, deities, rituals, and esoteric practices
-Covers almost everything you need to know to form a foundational understanding of Nordic paganism
-Provides personal examples of rituals and practices
-Distinguishes between modern and historic pre-Christian practices, while encouraging practitioners to forge their own paths and contribute to Ásatrú as a living tradition
-Distinguishes between Nordic paganism as it is viewed and practiced in the United States vs. in Scandinavia
In short, I see this as a great starting point for anyone who is interested in learning about the basics of Nordic paganism.
The author, Dr. Mathias Nordvig, is a Danish practitioner of Ásatrú who currently lives in the United States, as well as a Nordic Studies Professor and the co-host of Nordic Mythology Podcast. The perspective he brings to the book is that of both a scholar and a modern practitioner.
Among the things I liked best about this book:
- Provides a solid overview of Old Norse lore, worldview, deities, rituals, and esoteric practices
-Covers almost everything you need to know to form a foundational understanding of Nordic paganism
-Provides personal examples of rituals and practices
-Distinguishes between modern and historic pre-Christian practices, while encouraging practitioners to forge their own paths and contribute to Ásatrú as a living tradition
-Distinguishes between Nordic paganism as it is viewed and practiced in the United States vs. in Scandinavia
In short, I see this as a great starting point for anyone who is interested in learning about the basics of Nordic paganism.
September 24, 2021
This book was amazing! Easy to understand, well planned out, visually PERFECT as a study guide for beginners. I am a 16 year practicing Heathen and I absolutely 100% love this book. I have absolutely nothing bad to say about it! The author doesn't force anything on the reader, but presents differing views to form one's own decision. I love the inclusivity of this book. The terms the author uses are very inclusive. Heathenism is for EVERYONE if you are called to the path. This is an ESSENTIAL book to have in your Heathen study library, regardless of how many years you have been Heathen. It took me only 2 hours to read and study (I'm a super fast reader) and absorb so much information and guidance from this book. Sometimes even the most experienced person should go back and read beginner/introductory books, it's crucial to helping others learn! 10/10 get this book!
January 19, 2021
I borrowed this from KindleUnlimited because I'm interested in understanding how 21st century people approach religion/faith/spirituality, particularly those from non-Christian or non-mainstream Christian backgrounds. It's also interesting to see how people from different beliefs as you approach life and morality.
This book is very entry level, although it is probably unsettling for a lot of Christians, just because many cannot fathom anything that is outside of their preconceived ideas.
I gave this three stars because their isn't a whole lot here. If you're like me and know a lot about Norse mythology and legends, then you know more than what is covered in this book. Still it was interesting.
This book is very entry level, although it is probably unsettling for a lot of Christians, just because many cannot fathom anything that is outside of their preconceived ideas.
I gave this three stars because their isn't a whole lot here. If you're like me and know a lot about Norse mythology and legends, then you know more than what is covered in this book. Still it was interesting.
August 25, 2021
Short but to the point! This is a vital book for anyone wanting to be a heathen; not only does it dispel many of the VERY common misconceptions even the most seasoned heathens tend to have, but it's well researched, offers a short history of ásatrú and emphasises the core of this faith; it's all about community and building trust and reliability to those around you. I wish I could make some of the heathens I know who have been practicing for 20+ years this book.
4 stars because the book could do with some more information on the importance of the landspirits and ancestors, and of course some gods were not mentioned. I have slight disagreements with Nordvigs opinions, but he never presents them as fact so I have to commend him for that.
4 stars because the book could do with some more information on the importance of the landspirits and ancestors, and of course some gods were not mentioned. I have slight disagreements with Nordvigs opinions, but he never presents them as fact so I have to commend him for that.
March 6, 2022
Although the topic is not new to me, I appreciate Dr. Nordvig's podcast and wanted to check out his book. I really enjoyed it and appreciate his insight as a Danish person with direct experience being raised in and practicing heathenism in Europe. He outlines the practice well, but also explains that there are different avenues of it that all fall under the same umbrella.
I wish he'd do a more in depth book as there were things he mentioned that I hadn't heard about and would like to know more. But I also realize that this faith is very individualized, as he emphasizes in the book.
Interesting all around, whether you're a novice, just looking for information, or have already spent a lot of time studying.
I wish he'd do a more in depth book as there were things he mentioned that I hadn't heard about and would like to know more. But I also realize that this faith is very individualized, as he emphasizes in the book.
Interesting all around, whether you're a novice, just looking for information, or have already spent a lot of time studying.
March 4, 2021
The perfect place to start. Good provision of vocabulary and historical sources.
I do wish more time was spent combatting white supremacist views within the movement, especially considering its recent publication, however the curt and direct treatment of such topics within the text are probably enough for the very beginner who may be unaware of such channels. Perhaps we will see a future publication that addresses this more fully in the future.
It should also be said that I did listen to the audio of this text, but I am hoping that there is a good sized bibliography in the back.
I do wish more time was spent combatting white supremacist views within the movement, especially considering its recent publication, however the curt and direct treatment of such topics within the text are probably enough for the very beginner who may be unaware of such channels. Perhaps we will see a future publication that addresses this more fully in the future.
It should also be said that I did listen to the audio of this text, but I am hoping that there is a good sized bibliography in the back.
March 20, 2023
This book was the perfect introduction to Norse heathenism. It has just enough information to understand how to study further, without being so in depth to get lost in imagining tradition which does not resonate. Nordvig's writing is a pleasure to read, and I often found myself pausing to try to pronounce specific names. I would recommend this to anyone also curious about folk spirituality in the process of dismantling their religious upbringing. Without feeling indoctrinated, I am more at peace with my own spirituality.
December 28, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is definitely for beginners as advertised. It's a lot of information packed into primer for practicing Asatru and learning more about being a Heathen. It is a great start to learning more and gives a lists a lot of reference material so that the reader can explore more if they so choose. It will definitely stay in my library as a reference guide to learning more about being a Heathen.
April 14, 2021
I read through this in an evening. It's a short text yet it covers the basic ideas of heathenry. Nordvig is a great author - he takes his decades of experience and Ph.D and wraps it up into a beginner-friendly book. His tone is informational yet light (not condescending) - Nordvig makes it very clear that while he is an expert on the topics on his book, the reader is the one who is free to practice Asatru how they see fit in their own homes.
August 2, 2021
A really good, short primer for people curious about Asatru. It's not conclusive by any means, but Mathias points you in the right direction should you wish to continue your education. I was worried it was going to be really dry, but surprisingly it wasn't. The first chapter was a little bit info-dumpy and I had difficulty digesting all of the history, but if you have a physical copy of the book it could probably be useful to reference!
November 6, 2022
I appreciate the author’s academic expertise, personal experience of the relevant living culture, and inclusion of sources of more information. He encourages the reader to seek more information in lore texts and specifies when certain traditions and beliefs historically emerged- as in: lots of neo-pagan practices are not unbroken “ancient rituals” as is often claimed. There is so much bad information out there in occult and pagan books, but this one is rooted in reality.
February 11, 2024
It was very informational but not too boring with too much information. I really liked learning about Asatru as a spirituality and the heathenistic way. It makes me excited to learn more about other similar spiritualities to try to create my own. I appreciated that the author included other Scandinavian or Eddic works in the book because now I have other options to go to after reading this.
Twas an enjoyable, note-worthy read.
Twas an enjoyable, note-worthy read.
August 27, 2020
I like the history and scholarship that Nordvig includes in this book, as well as how he dispels many misconceptions that are common to Ásatrúar both old and new. However, I fundamentally disagree with some of his opinions, which is probably why I am a capital-H Heathen and not Ásatrúar nor heathen.
February 19, 2021
Excellent
This is a book on modern Heathenry that I could almost have written myself. It gives a good historical grounding but also has its feet firmly in the present. It gives great pointers for people to get started or develop on this path. Highly recommended for anyone with an interest in modern Heathenry.
This is a book on modern Heathenry that I could almost have written myself. It gives a good historical grounding but also has its feet firmly in the present. It gives great pointers for people to get started or develop on this path. Highly recommended for anyone with an interest in modern Heathenry.
September 6, 2021
I really liked this book.
I has never read anything specific on Asatru before, and though I am passionate of norse mythology, I did not know much about this spiritual path.
It's surely a good book for a beginner, becasue it sets a base, and most importantly it gives a lot of options for further research.
I should also mention that the bibliography was very well done.
I has never read anything specific on Asatru before, and though I am passionate of norse mythology, I did not know much about this spiritual path.
It's surely a good book for a beginner, becasue it sets a base, and most importantly it gives a lot of options for further research.
I should also mention that the bibliography was very well done.
October 22, 2021
Good history but biased
I felt like this guy frowned a bit on Heathens who appreciate traditions that were possibly older but haven't been proven, or of anyone who practices Heathenry as they believe it, despite his saying that heathenry is a personal belief system. There's a lot of good history in here but I didn't appreciate the condescending tone.
I felt like this guy frowned a bit on Heathens who appreciate traditions that were possibly older but haven't been proven, or of anyone who practices Heathenry as they believe it, despite his saying that heathenry is a personal belief system. There's a lot of good history in here but I didn't appreciate the condescending tone.
April 20, 2022
valuable step for learning
This is a quick way to learn the basics and be sent on a good journey. Appreciate the author’s ability to convey the perfect amount of understandable information and framework to support more exploration. Excellent foundational book—like a friend is giving you a hand. Yet this information comes from someone extraordinarily accomplished.
This is a quick way to learn the basics and be sent on a good journey. Appreciate the author’s ability to convey the perfect amount of understandable information and framework to support more exploration. Excellent foundational book—like a friend is giving you a hand. Yet this information comes from someone extraordinarily accomplished.
April 1, 2023
Testo molto introduttivo, ma offre un'ottima infarinatura di quella che è la spiritualità norrena antica e moderna, al di fuori di pregiudizi e contaminazioni di suprematisti bianchi, qui aspramente (e giustamente) criticati dall'autore, un professore danese che dimostra tutta la sua preparazione accademica, pur scrivendo in maniera divulgativa e alla portata di tutti.
October 9, 2024
Turns out Asatru is not the ancient norse religion. It’s a 60s new agey, pretend old timey thing like Wicca. It was interesting to learn that the Eddas it draws its source material from were written by a Christian. So even they aren’t ‘accurate’ to what the old norse believed. The whole heathenism thing felt kinda soft and inconsequential. Shrug + eyeroll.
February 12, 2021
Awesome book
It is a very easy book to understand and gives you many places to get started learning. This should be each persons first book when wanting to learn more about Asatru.
It is a very easy book to understand and gives you many places to get started learning. This should be each persons first book when wanting to learn more about Asatru.
March 11, 2021
One of the best introductions to Asatru that I have read. Most books try to set people down a path and include renditions of the various base myths. I really appreciate that this book focused on the historical lens and emphasized the various different paths that currently exist.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews