seiðrwomen

Seiðrwomen refers to women who practiced seiðr, a form of Norse magic and divination. This practice was prominent in Viking Age Scandinavia, though its origins are older. Seiðr involved prophecy, influencing fate, and communicating with spirits and the divine. It was often a communal activity, with a practitioner, known as a völva or seiðkona, leading the rituals.

The role of seiðrwomen in society was significant, though also complex. They were often consulted by chieftains and common people alike for guidance on matters of war, farming, and personal fortune. While their abilities were respected and sought after, there was also a degree of fear and suspicion associated with seiðr, as it dealt with powerful and potentially unpredictable forces. Some historical sources suggest that practicing seiðr was considered effeminate for men, further highlighting its association with women.

The rituals themselves could be elaborate, involving chanting, songs, and sometimes trance-like states. The völva would often journey to other realms to gain knowledge or impart messages. The exact nature of seiðr and the specific practices of seiðrwomen are not fully understood, as much of the information comes from sagas and archaeological finds, which can be interpreted in various ways. However, it is clear that seiðrwomen held a unique and influential position within their communities, blending spiritual leadership with practical influence.