North European Paganism

In this informative pocket book, author and acclaimed wine writer Linda Johnson-Bell explores Northern European paganism, painting a landscape of stunning beauty populated by otherworldly shamen, strange gods, heathen temples, and living elemental energies. The Sami have 100 words to describe features of reindeer, the three Norns who sat under Yggdrasil's branches were Urðr, Verðr, and Skuld, and Nordic spirit-callers cast their magical spells through incantations and rituals.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 64 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Wooden Books

Northern European paganism, a captivating and intricate cultural phenomenon, is explored in depth by author and acclaimed wine writer Linda Johnson-Bell in this captivating pocket book. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, Johnson-Bell paints a vivid portrait of this ancient tradition, revealing its rich tapestry of stunning beauty, enigmatic deities, awe-inspiring temples, and the vibrant energies of living elements.

The Sami people, indigenous inhabitants of Northern Europe, possess a rich linguistic heritage that allows them to describe the unique features of reindeer in exquisite detail. Their language, known as the Sami language, is filled with specialized terms and metaphors that capture the essence of these majestic animals. According to Johnson-Bell, the Sami have a vocabulary of over 1,000 words dedicated to describing the various characteristics of reindeer, including their physical attributes, behavior, and cultural significance.

The three Norns, who are revered figures in Norse mythology, are believed to have sat beneath the branches of Yggdrasil, the sacred tree that connects the nine realms. These Norns, known as Urd, Verdandi, and Skadi, were responsible for shaping the fate of the world and were often invoked by Nordic spirit-callers in their magical spells. The Norns were believed to possess immense wisdom and power, and their presence was believed to bring blessings or curses upon those who sought their assistance.

Nordic spirit-callers, also known as seers or sorcerers, were skilled practitioners of magic who believed in the power of the natural world to manifest their desires. They used a variety of techniques, including incantations, rituals, and the manipulation of elements, to cast their magical spells. These spells were often used for practical purposes, such as hunting, healing, or protecting against enemies, but they could also be employed for more mystical purposes, such as communing with the gods or seeking spiritual guidance.

The practice of magic in Northern European paganism was deeply intertwined with the belief in the supernatural and the divine. The gods and goddesses of the ancient Norse pantheon, such as Odin, Thor, Freyja, and Loki, were believed to possess immense powers and were worshipped in elaborate rituals and ceremonies. These rituals often involved the use of sacred objects, such as the hammer of Thor, the spear of Freyja, or the necklace of Odin, which were believed to hold mystical properties and could be used to channel the divine energy.

In conclusion, Northern European paganism is a fascinating and complex cultural tradition that has left a lasting impact on the world. Through the exploration of the Sami people's linguistic heritage, the three Norns who sat beneath Yggdrasil, and the magical practices of Nordic spirit-callers, this pocket book provides a glimpse into the rich tapestry of this ancient tradition. Whether you are interested in history, mythology, or the supernatural, this book offers a wealth of information and insights that will captivate your imagination and deepen your understanding of this fascinating cultural heritage.

Weight: 84g
Dimension: 126 x 156 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781907155468