Glossary

Ætt

Literally "family," "lineage," or "household." Within HHRK, used to describe a spiritual household bound by shared faith rather than blood.

Blót

A ritual offering or sacrifice made to the Gods, ancestors, or land spirits — historically food, drink, or other offerings shared in community and given in thanks or petition.

Forn Siðr

Old Norse for "the old custom" or "the old way." The general term for the pre-Christian Norse religious tradition, and for its modern revival and practice.

Frith

Peace, right relationship, and mutual trust. More than the absence of conflict — an active, maintained bond of goodwill and protection within a community.

Hákonarætt

Literally "the House of Hákon." The spiritual household and shared tradition that HHRK belongs to and is named for. Discover Hákonarætt.

Hearth

A local community or household within a broader tradition; sometimes used interchangeably with "kindred."

Holy Tides

The seasonal festivals and sacred observances of the Old Norse religious calendar, celebrated throughout the year with blóts, fellowship, and remembrance.

Kindred

A local community or group practicing the Old Norse religious tradition together, similar to a congregation.

Landvættir

Land spirits or "land wights" believed to inhabit and watch over the natural world — rivers, hills, forests, and stones.

Moot

A gathering or meeting. HHRK uses "moot" for open, public gatherings.

Orlog (Ørlög)

Literally "primal law" or "original layers." A concept describing the inherited conditions and influences into which each person is born. Together with wyrd, orlog reminds us that while we do not choose every circumstance of our lives, our choices shape the legacy we leave for those who follow.

Sumbel

A ritual of ceremonial toasting, typically in rounds — honoring the Gods, remembering ancestors, and making boasts or oaths — shared communally, often with mead or ale.

The Eddas

Two foundational texts of Norse mythology: the Poetic Edda, a collection of anonymous poems, and the Prose Edda, written by Snorri Sturluson — together a primary source for Norse cosmology and myth.

The Sagas

Icelandic prose narratives, written mostly in the 13th century, recounting historical and legendary events, family histories, and the lives of notable figures from the Norse world.

Wyrd

A concept describing the unfolding pattern of life shaped by inherited circumstance, personal choice, and the consequences of one's actions. Rather than an unchangeable destiny, wyrd reminds us that the past influences the present, and the present helps shape the future.