lysingar

Lysingar refers to a type of folk magic or ritual practice found in some Northern European traditions, particularly associated with Iceland. The term itself is often translated as "loosing" or "unbinding," suggesting a process of releasing something or someone from a spell, curse, or other form of magical influence. Lysingar were typically performed by individuals with perceived supernatural abilities, often referred to as seiðmenn or seiðkonur, who would employ specific chants, incantations, and symbolic actions.

The practice of lysingar involved identifying the source of the affliction or unwanted magical effect and then performing counter-rituals to neutralize it. This could include dispelling negative energies, breaking curses, or freeing individuals from supernatural bonds. The exact methods and rituals varied depending on the specific tradition and the nature of the problem being addressed. Evidence for lysingar comes from historical sagas, folklore collections, and some scholarly analyses of Norse and Icelandic magical beliefs. It is considered a part of a broader spectrum of folk magic that sought to understand and influence the supernatural forces believed to be active in the world.