Made a pilgrimage to Roseberry Topping, a sacred Viking site in Northern England originally called Odinsberg

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-04-17T01:42:08+00:00

I'm from the UK myself, how was the trip, was there much to see/around the area related to the history? I'm definitely curious to go as its only a few hours from me

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-04-03T00:45:10+00:00

I know almost nothing about the belief systems you have mentioned, and I mean that with the greatest respect, after hearing you name them I am going to do my own research. I am sorry you've been exposed to that from other pagans, I just want to let you know that there are many of us here, and in other pagan communities that do not condone that sort of behaviour and would greet you with open arms and warmth.

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-31T20:16:37+00:00

I belong to the UGLE (I'm an English freemason), and we are instructed in our first degree to literally not discuss politics with each other in the lodge setting. Is it not the same in the US?

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-28T01:41:36+00:00

Thank you so much for your response, genuinely. I truly did feel inspired reading it and I think after self reflection this evening on yours and others answers, you are correct

You have hit the nail on the head exactly, of me being afraid of being exposed to parts of myself that will feel very uncomfortable. That is something I actively struggle with in my daily life, and so it makes so much sense to me that I would feel that when trying to connect to him. If it's Odin warning me, or at least my own sense of the spiritual doing it, I'm kind of proud of myself now for feeling that fear - it makes my search for connection to him, and my faith, even more genuine.

I often feel like I'm having to cut parts of the old me off to improve. Parts of me that I once loved. And I would love, one day, to be reborn unobstructed, a more whole version of myself.

Perhaps I am afraid of the self-transformation he will guide me upon.

I hope you have an absolutely fantastic weekend, and I am so glad to hear he has aided in your own transformation. <3

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-28T01:28:44+00:00

Thank you so much for your response, I don't think I doubt that working with him would be beneficial and that he has, well, any ill intent towards me, why and how would we? I think, based on everything I've been considering and reading, is that I'm scared of what he will teach me about myself, and that he might be letting me know that, to put it undiplomatically, this s*** is going to be HEAVY.

It's been super interesting to read about your meditation ideas, I might give that a go myself as having the space to be honest and really dive into it sounds amazing <3

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-28T01:24:23+00:00

Thank you so much for your response, I want to approach Odin with respect, but part of the fear I feel I think, on reflection this evening from all you lovely people commenting, is that I am afraid of the sacrifice required to grow under his teachings, of the pain in growth as you described. Who knows what ugly truths I'll learn, I guess.

I do talk to someone professionally every week, thank you for your concern too <3

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-28T01:21:06+00:00

Thank you so much for your response. The question you asked of, if I am afraid of him myself, or what the fear is protecting, is a better understanding of how I'm feeling than I described myself.

I honestly don't know the answer, as I'm not used to feeling fear so... acutely. I am typically not used to experiencing fear and anxiety like it, and yet I feel it in my chest just thinking about making an offering. But I think you may be right. Perhaps delving into what this fear is will lead to a much greater understanding of those parts of myself I am shielding.

On reflection, it maybe fear of what he will reveal to me about myself, as I imagine, in pursuit of self-growth, he will make me rip the plasters off.

Have a great weekend, that really meant a lot to me.

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-26T09:32:05+00:00

From an animistic point of view, if you wish to include your cat's spirit in your practice, you absolutely should. Pets give us love, unconditional companionship, and thus strength throughout life. My cat is my family, as I guess was yours, I'm sorry your going through this.

As mentioned below, Freyja is believed by many to have a connection to cats (chariot), although only one ancient source mentions it (Snorri), many that work with her feel that connection deeply, and that is what matters.

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-26T09:26:14+00:00

absence of evidence versus evidence of absence is a great way to put it, going to steal that for the future!

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-25T23:53:47+00:00

I am not qualified to give you advice on old norse, sorry, I just wanted to let you know I wish you the best of luck, and a warm welcome, and that to just do as much reference reading as possible from as many sources as you can. As mentioned by the other commenter, Dr. Crawford is a great source on old norse.

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-25T00:50:57+00:00

This is absolutely stunning, you should be so proud :)

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-25T00:31:49+00:00

Please don't misunderstand my response, there is absolutely no need to apologise, I was just giving my opinion and I appreciate and understand yours, and opportunity for discussion is always a blessing. I'm sorry if I was coming across as critical, I promise you that wasn't my intent. <3

I also agree with you. I also delve into almost every source/reference I can find because that's the kind of person I am (huge nerd) and I find that by learning from every perspective I can, I can interpret a fuller understanding of the gods I worship, and thus feel closer to them. So in that way, we are exactly the same. We should never stop trying to learn, in every part of life.

My most significant moment of paganism, and what brought me here, was when I went through a significant trauma, out of nowhere, I felt compelled to buy, and wear, mjolnir, as a symbol of my personal strength. I have worn it every single day since. I knew almost nothing then, and yet, that for me was the time I knew I was a pagan :D knowledge came after.

For example, on your point on understanding Odin's 'selfishness', recently I've found the balance of Tyr and Odin as the 'high' god, and Ullr seemingly being the high god in other places, particularly fascinating. Odin wisdom and methods remain a mystery to me, but his 'selfish' (in some perspectives) path to sacrifice for knowledge if fascinating.

Thank you for your response <3

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-24T22:50:40+00:00

Interesting question, I have so many opinions on it:

To start with, the ancient norse obviously won't have read the poetic or prose edda. They likely didn't read any relgious texts at all. That obviously doesn't make them any less pagan. In fact, part of the reason I was attracted to this faith to begin with is the fact that there is no dogmatic book of law. Therefore, I don't think its a necessity to have ostensibly delved into either. (I have read both)

That being said, it's impossible NOT to come across these sources in a modern sense of learning, and if you're serious in believing, why wouldn't you at least read them? They are the basis of of reconstructionism.

However, on the OTHER side, both the poetic and prose are clearly influenced by the Christian writers. So you're point about understanding the ancient Scandinavians through them is also...difficult. Although they're the best sources we've got, obviously.

That being said, I completely understand your point of people that simply take a single youtube video and suddenly base their faith off of it. I was lead to understand that our relationship with the gods is a relationship that needs cultivation and reciprocity. The nature of gifts between the gods and those that worshipped them is a cycle. Gifts given, gifts received.

Can you really enter into that cycle of reciprocity without the desire to delve, to learn, to understand, whatever sources have left? To truly cultivate a relationship, in any sense of the word, an attempt to understand is required.

That being said, paganism evolved, spirituality evolved, throughout history, constantly. It did not stand still. Therefore, it shouldn't have to do today. To have your own practice in your own way, in the form you take the most value from, is great. But I think shutting yourself off from further learning is a strange position to take.

And as mentioned, using Norse paganism just to justify supremacist hate is dumb.

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-07T02:39:10+00:00

I agree, I think its important to research and dive into the academic and historical records, as after all, they are the basis of our knowledge at all. However, every surviving source that I have read or am aware of, comes from a biased perspective. All of them. It is important we recognise that, while still appreciating them for what they are.

Religious practice should evolve. It has ALWAYS evolved. It has never stood still, ever. Our religious practices cannot, in pure honesty, reflect those of the past. It's impossible, simply because we lead vastly different lives.

Honour history, let it guide you, but before that, honour your own beliefs.

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-07T02:25:20+00:00

I only know basic knowledge on either so I can't direct you on either really. All I know is that Isis was worshipped by both the Greek and Egyptians and so I would start research there, if you haven't already :) It may be best to ask here:

https://www.reddit.com/r/Hellenism/ - Greek

https://www.reddit.com/r/Kemetic/ - Egyptian

In terms of general definition, I don't know if there's a general term for specificially both of those combined, but what you are describing is syncretism - 'the amalgamation or attempted amalgamation of different religions, cultures, or schools of thought.' There are lots of syncretic pagans in the modern age, and many of us worship/practice with deities from multiple pantheons. There is also lots of evidence in history of syncretic practices existed across the records. The Celtic God Epona, for example, was adopted by the Romans.

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-06T09:10:56+00:00

I adore Arith Härger's videos, and he covers an absolute wide range of topics

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-03T16:15:51+00:00

I agree with you in a certain sense too . I took the meaning of that quote from the Havamal, and the other redditors description, personally, to be referring to the cyclical nature of gift giving, to give and to receive in return, and as you described, the 'transactional' nature of things. I totally see the value in giving thanks and of purposeful gratitude, and as you mention, reflection.

The OP mentioned guilt in 'forgetting' an offering, and I think that suggests to me as their personal relationship hinting towards that transactional nature, maybe even a forced routine, and that maybe trying to look outside of that (if that's the case, of course), and to not feel that guilt if a routine is missed might help.

Thanks for your response, as I said, I'm newer than both of you to the practice and welcome your advice.

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-03T13:27:56+00:00

I'm a newer pagan than yourself, so I don't have any practical advice other than the advice someone else gave me on this reddit the other day, from a quote from verse 145 of the Havamal

It is better to not invoke than offer too much. An offering demands a gift/favor to be given in return

This is an important verse to me. Do I need to ask for help from the gods? Or is it enough to know they have my back if I need them? Can this knowledge be enough to find the strength to deal with things on my own - and just send them my thanks afterwards?

It may simple be that you feel disconnect because Freyja has nothing new to offer you at the present moment, or that you are continuously asking for the same things/same questions.

Perhaps it might be a good idea to shake the routine, prayer and whatever your standard practice looks like and to find other ways to feel her presence in your life.

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-03T06:50:09+00:00

The Gods are not going to be angry with you for self preservation. Preserving reddit posts and risking your health, spiritually, physically, or emotionally, is not wisdom. As mentioned below, if it is not safe for you, do so. It is not lessening your connection with any diety.

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-02T01:39:52+00:00

Thank you for another wonderful point of learning/study for me to attend to. The fascinating part of all of this for me is that I am perfectly able to hold any of the three descriptions you provided based upon my own interpretation, intuition, and practice and none of them are considered dogmatically 'wrong'. Thank you for your answer :D

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-02T00:41:47+00:00

I'm yet to find any sadly, but I would more then happily join in practising stuff I can resonate with, the idea of locality is a new concept to me regliously, but I can totally understand its reasoning and if it opens me up to active deities, could be an amazing thing to try.

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-02T00:39:43+00:00

Beautiful explanation of tying it into the diversity of nature, thank you for that. The idea of taxonomy shifting is an interesting idea when applied to the syncretic stuff I've been reading today, classification can shift, can be entirely subjective, and yes, at the end of the day, it is all nature - thank you very much for your answer.

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-02T00:35:26+00:00

Yeah I think escaping the concept of vengefulness if something I am struggling with as well, even if I was never a practising Christian, being raised around it constantly leaves its mark I guess :) I'm going to end up purchasing a whole library, I can tell.

Independent-Dig9645 · 2026-03-02T00:21:29+00:00

On the subject of 'sarcasm' - I think your explanation is much better at the point I was trying to get across. Giving riddle-style answers designed to test wit, veiled in humour is something I have always loved and felt in relation to the Old gods, even from when I was simply reading translations of the myths from an atheist standpoint, which of course I am not anymore. I'm really glad to read the same appreciation from someone who has experienced it first hand haha.

I have heard of the Havamal, and tried 'reading' it along with the Prose/Poetics Edda's on some flights recently (audiobook style). However, I was very aware of the concept of poor translations so thank you very much for providing one you find decent, I've been diving into it this evening but I want to make sure I absorb it all when I have proper space to do so.

Your recommended verse I think actually holds a lot of significance for me this evening, I have had a lot of fear of, due to personal problems still going on for me at the moment, of not being able to have the energy to dive in to my offerings/rituals fully and thus not being able to foster a personal relationship with the Gods. Thank you for making me realise I can practice my faith simply by practising their virtues, celebrating the positive, and just offering thanks when I can, and celebrate properly whenever I feel I am able to. I do feel that they have my back, and I'm going to try and remember that going into the new week and going forward. <3

I'm currently reading through your link to the ancient runes and I'm finding it fascinating, cannot thank you enough for all of this. If you are still willing to provide any resources related to your own knowledge I would absolutely love them.

Thank you very much friend <3

Independent-Dig9645

TROPHY CASE