The Poetic Edda is a collection of ancient Norse poems that form the foundation of Viking mythology and belief. Written down in the 13th century, these poems were likely passed down orally for centuries before being recorded. The Poetic Edda contains mythological and heroic poems that delve into the lives of the gods, the creation of the world, and the fate of humanity. Unlike the Prose Edda, which offers interpretations, the Poetic Edda presents the stories in their original poetic form, allowing readers to experience the sagas more authentically.
For Asatru practitioners, the Poetic Edda holds immense significance. It provides one of the clearest links to the beliefs and values of ancient Norse culture. The text offers direct insight into the gods’ actions, their relationships with humans, and their influence on the world. Poems such as the Völuspá (Prophecy of the Seeress) and the Hávamál (Sayings of the High One) are key sources of spiritual guidance for Asatru followers. The Völuspá recounts the creation of the world, the gods’ rise, and the eventual destruction of everything in Ragnarok. The Hávamál, attributed to Odin, provides wisdom on leadership, honor, and living a balanced life.
The mythological poems also influence Asatru rituals and ceremonies. They inspire modern practitioners to align their lives with the virtues of bravery, wisdom, and loyalty seen in the sagas. The heroic poems, which tell of great human figures like Sigurd and the Volsungs, encourage Asatru followers to emulate the courage and honor exemplified by these characters. The poetic nature of the text also preserves the skaldic tradition, making it a vital part of Asatru storytelling today.
Rune Associated with the Poetic Edda
The Ansuz Elder Futhark rune, closely tied to Odin, aligns with the themes found in the Poetic Edda. As Odin is the god of wisdom, inspiration, and the spoken word, Ansuz symbolizes communication and knowledge. Many of the poems in the Poetic Edda focus on Odin’s quest for wisdom and his desire to share it with humanity.
For modern Asatru, Ansuz encourages the pursuit of knowledge and deeper understanding. The rune’s connection to divine inspiration also mirrors the poetic tradition, where wisdom passes down through stories and song, continuing to shape spiritual practice today.