Heathenry

Heathenry, also known as Heathenism or Germanic neopaganism, is a modern revival of pre-Christian Germanic religious traditions in Northern Europe and among diaspora communities. The term encompasses diverse groups and practices, including Ásatrú, Forn Sed, Theodism, and Odinism, among others. It is not a single organized faith but a family of related paths that share interest in Norse and Germanic mythologies, deities, and ancestral veneration.

Practitioners commonly honor a pantheon of Norse and Germanic gods and spirits, such as Odin, Thor, Freyja, Freyr, and Tyr, though the number of deities and emphasis vary by group. Core concepts may include wyrd (fate), a cyclical sense of time, and a close relationship with nature and land spirits. Common practices include ritual gatherings, offerings called blót, and celebratory toasts in sumbel, as well as seasonal feasts like Yule and Midsummer, and ancestor veneration.

Modern Heathenry is highly decentralized, blending reconstructionist aims based on historical sources with eclectic, contemporary interpretations. Organizations range from local groups to international bodies. Many adherents emphasize inclusivity and non-discrimination, while some groups have faced controversy due to extremist associations; mainstream Heathen communities reject such links.

The movement began in the 19th and 20th centuries as part of the neopagan revival. In Iceland, Ásatrú gained official recognition in 1973, and the tradition subsequently spread to other Nordic countries, North America, and beyond. Today Heathenry remains diverse, with ongoing debates about authenticity, ethics, and how to honor the past in a modern world.