Monday, April 4, 2011

Norse God of Thunder- Thor

The God of thunder, lightning and storms and Odin's only son. He was known for his huge appetite that at one point he drank so much of the sea in one gulp that he created the tides. He rode the skies in a cart that was pulled by his two fearsome billy goats 'Tooth Gnasher and 'Tooth Grinder'. As he rides sparks flash from  the goat's hooves and thunder comes from the cart wheels. He was the strongest of the Aesir and has always been described to be large, muscular with a red beard and was said to have held a most ferocious appearance. Despite the unwelcoming appearance of the God, he was well acknowledged for his role as the protector of the Gods and humans from the evil forces. He possessed with him a giant hammer which was made for him by the dwarves that he uses to slay his most powerful enemy, Jormungand, the giant serpent of Midgard.

 Thor (God of Thunder)

The Norse celebrate the existence of Thor by evoking him. And in this process the Norse believe that you must choose a spot on the earth where you feel that you will interact with the sky, then you make an offering. In the Dark Ages it was said that people would offer human sacrifice but now people will simply read out a poem composed to Thor and a cup of beer. Each Thursday an individual will offer the gift of fire and also a short poem which honors Thor.
Communal ceremonies would also be held to honor Thor and keep the friendly relationship between him and the humans. The host would welcome the guests and then cal upon the God to join them. The people will then provide fire through lighting candles or bonfires to invoke Thor's protection. A horn of mead is then presented to Thor and is passed around the people and they drink the wine that is placed within the horn, whatever is left over is given to the Thor as an offering. When in times of drought, the people will sound drums to mimic the thunder of Thor to make him present ans aware him of their needs.
A meal is then brought to the table and the feast would be dedicated to Thor with a portion of the food set aside for Thor as a sign of respect. This food includes goats meat, goats cheese, herrings and oats and berries. The night then continues with singing, dancing and storytelling for those who wish to compose a poem to Thor.

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