WodenOdin

WodenOdin is a term that appears in some English-language discussions and contemporary adaptations that blends the Anglo-Saxon name Woden with the Norse name Odin. It is not a canonical designation in ancient sources, where the deity is named Woden (or Wodan) in one tradition and Odin in another. The combined form reflects modern usage that treats the two linguistic variants as referring to the same chief god of the pantheon.

Etymology and naming: Woden originates from Proto-Germanic forms associated with inspiration and prophetic insight, while Odin is the Old Norse equivalent. The two names are cognate, representing the same god across different Germanic cultural spheres. The portmanteau WodenOdin is typically used in modern writings, discussions, or media as a shorthand to acknowledge both linguistic strands.

Mythological role: Odin/Woden is traditionally depicted as a chief deity associated with wisdom, magic, poetry, prophecy, war, and death. He is said to seek knowledge at great personal cost, travel between worlds, and influence fate. His symbols commonly include the spear Gungnir, the eight-legged horse Sleipnir, the ravens Huginn and Muninn, and the wolves Geri and Freki. In various myths he participates in sorcery (seiðr) and is portrayed as a strategist and seeker of runic wisdom.

Modern reception: In reconstructionist and contemporary pagan movements such as Asatru or Odinism, Odin is venerated under names that reflect linguistic and regional traditions. The combined label WodenOdin may appear in scholarly discussions, fan works, or games as a convenient reference to both forms of the deity, rather than as a distinct historic figure.

See also: Odin, Woden, Wodan, Norse mythology, Asatru, Odinism.