Im 16 years old and all my life my family has in a way shoved Christianity down my throat. I respect Christan beliefs but i find them to lack a lot of information that is important to me.
So by dumb luck i discovered Asatru, which sound like the perfect way of life for me. I very much into my family, and honor, and hard work, responsibility, and so on.
I just need some information about the different Gods, and teachings. I could also use some contacts that could maybe guide me because my family most likely wont support my conversion.
Being of Scottish, and German heritage i believe that this change is appropriate. Any help anyone can give me would be much appreciated.
I've studied Asatru extensively, I'd recommend checking these books out if you can. Some you can get at borders or barns and noble but others you may have to order on line.
Beginner level:
Essential Asatru by Diana L. Paxson
The Poetic Edda/The Prose Edda - Both have various author translations, get whatever you can find.
Nordic Gods and Heroes by Padraic Colum (this book has a lot of information found in the Eddas, but it's much easier to follow and understand)
Exploring the Northern Tradition by Galina Krasskova
Once you read those move on to other, more advanced stuff like these: (they will be very difficult to follow if you don't already know a decent amount of information)
Our Troth Vol. 1 & 2 by Kveldulf Gundarsson
Hammer of the Gods by Swain Wodening
I don't allow contacts because of stalkers who report everything, but you can e-mail if you have any questions and I'll try to answer it.
Good luck.I hate to tell you this but- Most respected teachers in Paganism will not assist you because your 16; unless you have a written statement from your parents giving their permission for you to study with them. My best advice is to wait till your 18 to find a group or mentor to contact. Sorry that's just the way it is.
Hello. There are in fact quite a lot of us Heathens and Asatruar here on R&S. I starred the question for my contacts, hopefully they drop by and leave you a few lines. You're most welcome to message me if you want to chat.
Us R&S Heathens even have an on line group, but the stuff that gets discussed there might be a bit heavy for a total beginner. You might have a look if you want though. Message me with your e-mail address and I'll send you an invitation.
If I was you I would steer clear of the magical mambo-jumbo eclecticism of Paxson and Aswynn; also Thorsson (AKA Steven Flowers a member of the Temple of Set [http://www.xeper.org/ ] - about as far from Heathenry as you can get!).
I would suggest you read the Poetic and Prose Eddas so you learn the basis of deity, creation, and values. When you understand that then look at books by modern authors. Without a grounding in the belief system you will not be able to see the rubbish, it would be like learning Christianity by not reading the Bible.
i agree with the statement that because you are only 16, albeit a young adult, you are technically not an adult. no one will really work with you for legal liability reasons. my advice= stay away from the Troth. they are a dying organization. study the Edda's, sagas, and all you have to do is go ogle Astra to find resources. regardless of his current inclinations, Thomson did write three of the best books on runes- at the well of Byrd, fut hark, and run lore. his other stuff is okay, but not for beginners. good journey!
Questions about Asatru?
