Last Updated on October 31, 2024
A sumbel (pronounced, SOOM-bell) is a sacred Norse gathering focused on drinking, storytelling, and honoring gods, ancestors, and community bonds. Participants raise a horn filled with mead, beer, or ale in three rounds. In each round, members give toasts or make oaths that carry personal or spiritual significance. The sumbel’s atmosphere often feels reverent yet celebratory. It brings people together, strengthening community ties through shared words, stories, and intentions.
During a sumbel, the first round traditionally honors gods or spiritual beings. Participants lift their horns and call on gods or beings they hold dear, such as Thor, Odin, or Freyja. They thank them, ask for guidance, or recount stories related to their strength, wisdom, or courage. This first round sets the tone for the event, establishing a space of respect and unity.
The second round often honors ancestors. People share stories of their departed loved ones or praise traits they admire. This part connects the group to their roots, linking the past with the present. It fosters a deep appreciation for family, heritage, and those who shaped their lives. Some groups also honor the disir—female spirits or protectors connected to family lineage—during this round.
The third round opens to individual or community-focused oaths, boasts, or pledges. Here, people make vows to improve their lives or announce recent achievements. This final round celebrates personal honor, resilience, and future aspirations. Individuals commit to personal growth, responsibility, or contributions to the community. The sumbel’s three rounds help people strengthen relationships with their gods, ancestors, and each other. They create a meaningful experience that builds unity, accountability, and a shared sense of purpose.
Runes Associated with Asatru Sumbel
The Gebō Elder Futhark rune aligns well with the spirit of a sumbel. Gebō represents giving and receiving, reflecting the generosity shared among participants. This rune symbolizes the mutual support seen when individuals share stories and oaths. The Ansuz rune also connects to sumbels, representing speech, wisdom, and inspiration. Ansuz reminds people to speak truthfully and wisely during the gathering, enhancing the spiritual impact of their words.
Importance in Asatru
In Asatru, sumbels hold immense importance as they strengthen bonds and reinforce personal commitments. Participants leave with a renewed sense of community and personal responsibility. Sumbels help people honor their past, celebrate the present, and plan for the future. By gathering together in a sumbel, Asatru practitioners affirm their values, respect, and dedication to their gods, ancestors, and each other. These gatherings foster unity, commitment, and a shared journey.
