If You're New to Asatru

November 17, 2011 by Steven Abell

Continued from Page 1

Don't rush out and buy a bunch of stuff. Sure, you will eventually get a good hammer, a drinking horn, a blessing bowl, some nice amber, and other things you'll enjoy having in your home. But things aren't what make you heathen. If you rush out to buy anything, buy books. Then read them.

Be careful with the mead/beer/ale/whatever. A good drink is a good thing, until it isn't. Odin has some rather pointed things to say about this, too.

Don't proselytize. If you think heathenry is fabulous, we agree. If you want to let your family, friends, and coworkers know you're heathen, that's great. If they ask what this is about, tell them. But remember that, while this may be for you, it's not for everyone. And, unlike some other religions, we'll tell you very plainly: there's no reason it should be. There are good ways to talk about Ásatrú with others, and there are other ways that will only stir resentment. You've probably experienced these other ways yourself, when you were targeted by someone whose religion is entirely wrong for you. The most effective arguments for heathenry have already been mentioned: be respectable, be hospitable, and be in the company of the gods. If you're the kind of person who needs to send a message, people will receive that message, loud and clear.

What's Next?

There is no simple answer to that. Some modern heathens are far from young anymore, but the reconstruction of our religion is only beginning, and we're still trying to figure out a lot of things.

Your experience is valuable, and we can look forward to getting to know you.

Welcome!

Hail!

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11/17/2011 5:00:00 AM

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About Steven Abell

Steven Thor Abell is a storyteller and the author of Days in Midgard: A Thousand Years On, a collection of original modern stories based on Heathen myths. As of 2013, he is also Steersman of the High Rede of The Troth.

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