Why I Am Vanic
by Eosin
For a long time, since I was very young, I've had leanings toward different aspects of Heathenry, particularly Anglo-Saxon. This developed in various fits and starts over the years, but began to make more sense in adulthood. I finally clarified the direction as specifically Anglo-Saxon in 1998, which continued to the present. Yet there are various reasons why I label my current practice Vanic. Rather than a dry definition, it has to do with many things that work together.
Looking at the historical Anglo-Saxons and their related cultures, it is apparent that the cultures were prominently Vanic. The tribes that became the Anglo-Saxons were predominantly the Ingvaeones mentioned by Tacitus. As is suggested by such a name, Ingui-Frey was honored in Britain, with carved boars, horses, figures with antlers, and other such symbols showing widespread worship. Although Odin/Woden figures prominently in Heathen lore, Frey was a primary deity in Britain, Sweden, and other places. In addition, other archaeological evidence, such as burial mounds, are indications of a Vanic culture.
Two of the primary Vanic deities, often considered the most prominent, are Frey and Freya. Each one is a powerful symbol. They not only represent fertility and sexuality, but together, they also represent material prosperity, military success, magic and divination, and other important things. In an Anglo-Saxon context, with Ingui-Frey, we see His worship across the island. The land there is very fertile, and the Germanic tribes that arrived there found great success, not only conquering defenders, but also in procuring goods and making lasting settlements that retained their language, culture, and religion. Freya is known through Scandinavian lore, and although that name isn't seen in Anglo-Saxon lore, Her legacy of magical practice has endured, known popularly as witchcraft.
I've had a long-term interest in many components of magical practice in general, and within modern Anglo-Saxon practice, with historical witchcraft in particular. I've had many spiritual experiences over the years, and not because I was expecting them; through magical practice, I wish to understand them better, and make them an effective tool for change. Within the Heathen paradigm, there generally isn't much interest in magic, and when there is, it tends to be runic, with the focus on the Aesir. Yet many folk-magic practices have survived through the centuries independent of that perspective. The very word witchcraft comes to us from Anglo-Saxon origins, and that culture was already Vanic in other substantial ways. I find it fitting that such magical practices be done in that cultural context.
One thing that witchcraft is known for is the knowledge and use of herbs for various purposes. That connection is so enduring that many people who mainly work with herbs describe themselves to others as 'kitchen witches'. Herbs are useful for many things, from spices for food, to brewing, to botanical functions in a garden, to magical use, to medicinal use, to household fragrances, etc. In this way, they can be thought of as a sort of 'natural toolbox' for creating various solutions. I appreciate all of these things, but I also wish to understand them in the context of religious and cultural lore; as a Vanic Heathen, I believe that these things deserve attention. Yet herbs are only part of the larger study of nature. I've always enjoyed spending time outdoors and learning about the lore of animals, plants, and the earth itself. And there are many things whose solutions can be found there. I don't base my life around nature, but I do believe in having a balance between old ways and modern living.
One nice thing about a Vanic perspective is finding common ground with many other people and groups who share similar goals, such as Wiccans. Although it can be said that I'm too Heathen for many Wiccans and too witchy for many Heathens, I think that there's a lot of understanding and cooperation that can be had. The honoring of Frey and Freya is analogous to the Wiccan worship of the Lord and Lady. Likewise, the use of magic, celebrating certain holidays, and respecting nature are common in many Wiccan covens. And there are Norse/Germanic-oriented Wiccans who study the lore, and are often called 'Wiccatru'. And with Heathen groups, many will respect the honoring of Frey and Freya, even if it isn't their primary focus, as They figure significantly in the lore.
What all this means is living with a more Vanic focus. I honor those Gods, and I try to learn by Their example. I respect the martial prowess and healthy masculinity of Frey. I like the magic and sensuality of Freya. I enjoy the prosperity that I have. And I believe that the wights, the elves, and the ancestors deserve attention. In practical terms, it means putting these things into practice in various ways. I study historical European martial arts. I study and respect nature. I have interest in related crafts, such as brewing. I believe in frith, and look for ways to grow it. And there is a place in my life for magical practice as well. Vanic living is a way to integrate all these things, and more, into a healthy lifestyle that honors the past while having optimism for the future, and that's something that we all can enjoy.
© 2008 Eosin.