What is Heathenry?
The Pagan Revival began in the 1960s. It saw the resurgence of the pre-Christian religions of Europe and the Middle East. Modern Paganism includes the revived Mystery Schools of the Hellenic world, the Celtic religions of ancient Europe, Ireland and Scotland, and the European religion known as Wicca.
On the edges of Paganism came the recovery of Norse, German and Anglo-Saxon beliefs. Modern Pagans tried to fit them within their own format. Others decided to take the Germanic beliefs on their own merits, exclusive of precedents set by modern Pagans. The result is a distinct religion which is very different in purpose, flavor and structure from the ways of the modern Pagan community. To distinguish itself from conventional Paganism, the term "Heathenism" was adopted. Though Heathenism is indeed a Pagan religion, it is distinct as a unique entity under the larger Pagan umbrella.
There have been several names coined for various Heathen groups: Hedenskap, Asatru, Odinism, Thorism, Theod, Troth, Der Urglaawe, etc. Most of these terms relate to specific branches of Heathenism. The term, that covers all of them is Heathenism. Though each branch is itself distinct. all have much in common than.
When discussing religion, most folks anticipate questions such as AWhat do you believe?” People are ill-prepared for the question: "What will your belief do for me?" Seeing a bunch of people worshipping old Norse Gods might look more like a medieval re-enactment or an occult ceremony to others. It is more important that people know what Heathenism does for us. In actual practice, the rites and ceremonies are a minor thing compared to living our beliefs every day.
Keep in mind that Heathenism is indeed a powerful way of life. The ancient Saxons and Norsemen would rather be executed than convert! Obviously Heathenism offered them something for which it was worth living and dying.
The basic premise of the Heathen is that everything spiritual is also practical. The goal of life is progress of the individual, the family and mankind. In this quest, there can be no cross purposes pitting spiritual requirements against real world necessity. Both work together for the betterment of all.
Those familiar with the other religions of these times will find Heathenism very different. Concepts common to conventional religions find no counterpart in Heathen belief. We are unbound by many of the strictures which are part and parcel of the major religions of this time.
We are bound by principles which guide us. These include honest, responsibility, fairness and generosity. Our principles encourage us to deal fairly with all, to do our best and to live a life that makes a difference. There are no rules behind which to hide, so as to excuse doing the minimum. We are urged to do our best and be our best.