PracticesAs with most spiritual systems, Heathenry has a number of beliefs and practices which make up the institution of religion-- that is the physical elements which bolster the spiritual aspect. Below one will find such practices with basic descriptions and intents. The BlessingThis is the fundamental practice of Holy Spring, being a gods-centered group. Often called a blót, from the Icelandic, in the Heathen community, the blessing is the group's time to come together at significant and meaningful times to address and strengthen the relationships between us and the Holy Ones, speaking with one voice. In most cases, the blessing is lead by someone acting as a priest or priestess, often under the Icelandic titles of góði [pronounced: GOHTH-i] and gyðja [GOOTH-ya]. The blessing starts with some type of Hallowing, a means to create a holy space. After that comes the Calling, by which we call and welcome the Gods and Goddesses. Then some type of offering being either food, drink, and/or object is placed on the Harrow [altar] and is consecrated, by water and/or flame, in the names of the High Ones to be shared amongst the folk present. Food and drink are placed into bowls or shallow trays. The contents from the bowl contains liquid are then used to bless the people, usually by means of a twig of some tree, priest's fingers, or other object. During blessings on some type of open land, the food. libations, and/or object meant to be offerings to the Heavens and Land Wights [spirits] are then relegated to their designated site. However in apartments or during very bad weather, the offering may be set aside or left on the altar either until the gifts can be properly disposed or until the practitioners feel the blessing has been given. At the very least, the drink is often poured out onto the ground or some similar site, such as a flower pot. Example Ritual by Richard Culver Symbel [SUM-bel]
This practice is a formal communal drinking ritual. The host or hostess
of the gathering, whether there has been a ritual or some other reason the folk
have assembled, calls everyone together. Taking a drinking horn, the tradition
means from which the drink, usually mead or ale, is drunk, he or she blesses
the horn and its contents with a small prayer. After doing so they begin
the three rounds of the formal rite. The first round is to the Gods and
Goddesses where each person in turn toasts a deity or deities of their choice.
The second round is dedicated to fallen heroes and ancestors (which are venerated
in our beliefs), though sometimes living relatives are also toasted, especially
if in great need or deed. In the third round, people toast whatever they
choose, be it another god, hero, or individual deemed worthy. Also in
this round are boasts of completed deeds, often sworn at a prior symbel, and
oaths to fulfill deeds or strengthen relationships. After the initial
three round are completed less serious things, such as songs, stories, or the
occasional flyghting [formal challenges to deeds or, less seriously, "Yo momma"
jokes]. In Texas, this great state often finds her way to be hailed.
Child-namingThis rite is what the Christian "christening" came from. In the lore, a belief is indicated which says our spiritual ancestors thought a child was not formally a member of the community until named, traditionally after nine nights. This was due to superstitions surrounding child mortality (f.ex.: an unhealthy child dying and bringing down the luck of the family-- much like a curse). Once the child was deemed able to live, it was brought to the father, by the mother (if she did not die in labor) or maternal relative, and presented to him. The father openly acknowledges the child and comments about its qualities then, after ritually washing the child with water, gives the child the name, usually based on those qualities, or those he hopes the child will have, or as a memorial to a fallen relative. Traditionally gifts are presented to the child and blessing bestowed. In our day and age, the number of nights is not nearly as important, except for the sake of tradition. Often various groups will wait until foster parents (in heathenry, these are "godparents") and other family and friends can be brought together. Gifts are still welcomed and often given. At times, the baby shower is postponed until after the baby is born and that way gifts for the baby are given in its presence, an added joy to the parents and the people attending. |
