001 : Blót und Sumbl

Blót is the old Norse word for sacrifice, but in modern times it generally refers to "pouring a horn" — an offering of mead — in honor of Odin, Thor, Freyr, Tyr, Frigga, or one of the other Norse/Germanic Gods or Goddesses. Blót can be performed alone, at home with one's family and kin, or in an assembled group. Generally a group Blót will be more ceremonial and elaborate than one done privately.

Sumbl is the old Germanic word for feast or feasting. In practice the horn is filled with mead and passed around among those assembled. Each round involves a different type of remembrance: our ancestors, our patron Gods and Goddesses, our heroes or favorite historical persons, and a round of "toasts and boasts" in which people might share poems, songs, achievements, or personal anecdotes. Each participant raises a toast, drinks from the horn, and passes it to the next person. The horn is refilled as often as needed until the available mead runs out.

Blót and Sumbl are both typically outdoor events, around a bonfire, but they may be enjoyed indoors as well. For an indoor blót, the mead is generally offered into a bowl which is later taken outdoors to pour upon the land.

Frith is in the blood of Our people, and one of the primary ways We enjoy and express it is to gather with others to celebrate Our Gods, Our ancestors, Our heritage, and Our folk.