The Traditional Heathens

Gods known by many names:

In the realm of Germanic polytheism, polyonymy is a captivating feature that offers a window into the beliefs, values, and connections of ancient Germanic societies. The gods and goddesses of the Germanic pantheon are known by multiple names across different regions and tribes. This multiplicity of names reflects the diverse linguistic landscapes and cultural interactions among the Germanic peoples.

Different Germanic tribes and regions had their own dialects and languages. As a result, the names of gods and goddesses were adapted to fit local linguistic norms.

Many deities were known by names that highlighted specific attributes, roles, or aspects of their divinity. For instance, a god known for both war and wisdom could have different names emphasizing each aspect.

Odin/Woden/Wotan: the head god was known as Grim, Gangleri, Herjan and Hjalmberi, Thekk and Trithi, Thuth and Uth, Helbindi and Hor, and Grimnir as listed in Grímnismál.

Frigg, revered as the chief goddess, was known by numerous names, including Frau Holle, Frau Holda, Frau Bercht, Frau Percht, Fru Frick, Fricca, and Frekka. Regrettably, Snorri Sturluson omitted mention of her polyonymy in his Prose Edda, which may cause some readers to question whether these names indeed refer to the same deity.

Polyonymy in the context of Germanic polytheism is a poetic reminder of the interconnectedness of these cultures and the fluidity of language and belief. It encourages us to look beyond the surface and examine the characteristics associated with the names.

illustrated by Ingri and Edgar D’Aulaire, published in 1967

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Gods known by many names:

In the realm of Germanic polytheism, polyonymy is a captivating feature that offers a window into the beliefs, values, and connections of ancient Germanic societies. The gods and goddesses of the Germanic pantheon are known by multiple names across different regions and tribes. This multiplicity of names reflects the diverse linguistic landscapes and cultural interactions among the Germanic peoples.

Different Germanic tribes and regions had their own dialects and languages. As a result, the names of gods and goddesses were adapted to fit local linguistic norms.

Many deities were known by names that highlighted specific attributes, roles, or aspects of their divinity. For instance, a god known for both war and wisdom could have different names emphasizing each aspect.

Odin/Woden/Wotan: the head god was known as Grim, Gangleri, Herjan and Hjalmberi, Thekk and Trithi, Thuth and Uth, Helbindi and Hor, and Grimnir as listed in Grímnismál.

Frigg, revered as the chief goddess, was known by numerous names, including Frau Holle, Frau Holda, Frau Bercht, Frau Percht, Fru Frick, Fricca, and Frekka. Regrettably, Snorri Sturluson omitted mention of her polyonymy in his Prose Edda, which may cause some readers to question whether these names indeed refer to the same deity.

Polyonymy in the context of Germanic polytheism is a poetic reminder of the interconnectedness of these cultures and the fluidity of language and belief. It encourages us to look beyond the surface and examine the characteristics associated with the names.

illustrated by Ingri and Edgar D’Aulaire, published in 1967

BY The Traditional Heathens