Heathen
Crafts
Heathens often acquire a number of skills and hobbies that
compliment their religious practices. Here are some
examples of the most popular.
Research
Many Heathens are very keen on reading up on both modern
and historical Heathen lore. This research is often
extended into European folklore, wider ranging mythology
and closely related subjects such as herbalism, survival
skills and natural history.
Brewing
Many Heathens make their own mead, country wines and ale
for ceremonies. The time taken over the the gathering of
natural materials and the brewing process is a form of
offering to the gods and goddesses and makes the offering
of alcohol to the gods and goddess more meaningful.
Carving
The carving of ritual tools and god figures from wood and
stone is a valued skill among heathens. Ritual tools made
by the user are often considered to have greater potency
and forge stronger links between Heathens and the natural
world.
Baking
Cookery and the creation of special dishes for festivals is
a very common interest among Heathens. Where possible home
grown ingredients or ingredients with strong connections to
the gods and goddesses are used.
Herblore and Incense Making
The growing of herbs and using them for home crafts,
natural cosmetics and incense is practised by many
heathens. Many herbs and trees have strong links to Heathen
gods and goddesses.
Poetry
Poetry was a highly valued skill in ancient Heathenry and
many of the tales of the gods and goddesses are recorded in
verse in the Norse Eddas. Heathen poetry is composed today
as entertainment and as a form of offering to the gods and
goddesses. Alongside modern styles, ancient Heathen poetic
styles are also used. Ancient Heathen poetry uses head
rhymes (words starting with the same sounds) and kennings
(a poetic description of an object used in place of it's
name - for example 'sea steed' for ship).
Storytelling
The telling of stories is another prized Heathen skill,
storytellers retell the ancient stories of the gods and
goddess in new and inventive ways or create new stories
inspired by their experiences of the deities.
Gardening / Allotment keeping
Many Heathens find great satisfaction in working on the
land due to the religion's strong links to the natural
world. Home grown foods are greatly valued in ritual feasts
and religious offerings. Gardening will often include the
growing of sacred herbs and trees for use as decorations at
festivals, incenses and magical charms.
Painting/illustration
Pictorial art is a valued skill among Heathens and includes
images of the gods and goddess and designs based on Heathen
symbols. Styles vary greatly between traditional dark age
styles, modern, even abstract styles and computer generated
designs.
Martial Arts
Many Heathens enjoy learning martial skills, especially
those linked to ancient Heathenry such as sword fighting
and archery. Such skills can be learned as a form of
dedication to the gods and goddesses linked to warfare,
especially Odin, Freya and Tyr.
Textile work
Some Heathens make ritual clothing, wall hangings and
banners. These are often made as a form of offering to the
gods and goddess. A number of Heathen goddess are
associated with textile work especially Frigga, Freya and
Holda and can be asked for help and inspiration with the
work.
