AsatruHeathenry
by Tabitha Fleming
Norse mythology, texts, and information are hard to locate in the modern world. Much of what is available is misinformation that could lead someone new to Asatru, Wotanism, or the like astray. These tips will get you on the right track and connect you to others who follow or study Asatru as a religion, or Norse mythology intellectually.
Books
"Norse Gods and Heroes" by Padriac Column [Dover Publications (January 18, 1996)]-- An excellent beginning for those who want an easy read with basic stories of the dieties. Although this book doesn't cover everything it does have many simple stories that demostrate basic principles. This is also a great story book for the children. Some of the stories are slightly different from the edda versions, but the overall meaning remains the same.
"The Poetic Edda" by Lee M. Hollander (Translator) [University of Texas Press; 2nd Revisd edition (1986)]-- A straightforward and direct translation of the Edda which is one of the few survivng works of the original sagas. The Poetic Edda also contains the Sayings of Har, which are the sayings of Odin (lead god).
"The Prose Edda" by Snorri Sturluson-- Although Snorri was in fact Christian, this is an attempt to document the beliefs and stories of the Norse tradition. Beware when reading this however, as much of the writing has a Judeo-Christian slant and must be sorted out.
"Futhark: A Handbook of Rune Magic" by Edred Thorsson [Weiser Books (June 1983)]-- Although the title says a handbook of Rune magic and magic is indeed discussed in the book, this is an essential beginner's guide to the runes (symbols/letters) which will in turn grant deeper understanding to those studying Asatru.
Internet Resources
http://www.asatru.org The Asatru Alliance website, you can find information regarding Asatru beliefs, holidays, and kindreds (groups) throughout the United States and world. The Asatru Alliance welcomes people of all backgrounds and races to learn more about the faith, and offers the World Tree publications including introductory pamphlets and more about Asatru.
http://www.irminsul.org The Irminsul Ættir Asatru page contains vast information as well as up to date locations of events and meetings. The site also contains a contact map which allows you to leave messages and connect with other members of the Asatru religion who are in your area.
http://thetroth.org The Troth, another great Asatru site in addition to online information, they also publish a quarterly journal and help train people for leadership roles within the Asatru religion. The training for clergy is a very detailed process which includes training for counseling and an intense final examination.
http://www.runestone.org The Asatru Fold Assembly offers information about beliefs, as well as reading lists for both children and adults. The positive messages of the site reinforce the Asatru standpoint of equality with the Gods and Goddesses, as opposed to submission which is often taught in other religions.
Final Notes
Asatru is the revival of an old and repressed religion which speaks to the hearts of many people across the world. Because of the nature of the religion, there is no difinitive "correct" way to practice Asatruism. However, basic principles are agreed upon by all groups. There are many resources available online concerning not only the religion but the symbolism of the runes.