Asatru

Asatru does not ring a bell with most people, but when they hear a name or two of our Gods, they usually frown as they think of the stereotypical Viking with horns on the helmet.

But this is far from the reality, as the viking did not really have horned helmets, these would have been grossly inconvenient in battle. And on the other hand, most their contemporaries were farmers, and even the raiding vikings ran their homes. The raiding was not the main source of income for the great majority of the population.

Here you can find my take on the old religion, my religion. Also available in Finnish.

The nine virtues of Asatru come in many shapes and forms, this is a set I find good to live by. These are pretty close to the Ring of Troth list of virtues, especially this English translation. I still have no good translation for one Finnish word, 'sisu.' It is somewhat of a mix of courage, strength, perseverence and industriousness.

The Nine Noble Virtues are considered a modern innovation and usually they are credited to the Odinic Rite in England. However, I believe that they express the goals and ethics of our religion, and are a necessary evil in today's fast-paced society — a sort of an executive summary.

Courage

The courage to do what is right at all times.

Truth

Being honest and saying what you know to be true and right.

Honor

The feeling of inner value and worth from which one knows that one is noble of being, and the desire to show respect for this quality when it is found in the world.

Fidelity

The will to be loyal to one's Gods and Goddesses, to one's folk, and to one's self.

Hospitality

The isolation and loneliness of modern life is not necessary. The willingness to share what one has with ones' fellows, especially travelers, is a vital part of our way of life.

Discipline

The willingness to be hard with one's self first, then if need be with others.

Industriousness

The willingness to work hard — always striving for efficiency — as a joyous activity in itself.

Freedom

The spirit of independence which is achieved not only for the individual but also for the family, clan, tribe, and nation.

Perseverance

The spirit of stick-to-it-iveness that can always bring one back from defeat or failure — each time we fail we recognize failure for what it is and, if the purpose is true and good, we persevere until success is won.