I was born catholic and when I was young my dad gave me a wooden cross. Throughout my life I have carved different things on it depicting my spiritual and religious journey. When I got into Germanic Peganism I chopped the bottom part of the cross to create a mjolnir and in a way I felt like a new person.
I am very proud to have the same name as my forefather Önundur Víkingsson who took land in my fjord the year 925 and named it Önundarfjörður. I have always related very strongly to Ásatrú. It is my religion. It is my heritage witch makes me proud. Being Icelandic also makes it easy for me to read and understand the old language, that brings me closer to my ancestors. Thank you for these videos you are doing a great job spreading the wisdom of Odin.
I was born in Keflavik, Iceland. Even with dual citizenship (usa ) I've always felt called to Odin. Called to my motherland and wish to return one day. Id love to converse with someone both of my faith and my homeland!
I honestly agree with you. We should get them from our community/kin. However, the Christian's did re name pagans when they converted so I don't see an issue with taking a pagan name tbh. 🤷♂️ I think, that it should be up to the individual.
No, to baptism. That is too associated with Christianity, indicating that a child's soul is lost unless they're baptized. I really doubt the Norse felt that way about babies. So why bother? As for names, who in the world actually said "No,you have to earn them. those aren't your names." Fuck that. Most of us have names from the bible and we're not Jewish, so why do pagan names have to be 'earned'? If people say they're pagan, they're pagan. Period. They can choose whatever name they'd like. As for the community naming, made me chuckle. Reminds me of that line from Pirates of the Caribbean, "I once sailed with a geezer who had one eye, and one arm." "What'd you call him?" "Larry". The community doesn't often give nicknames, unless you standout in some way. Good or bad. Look at the Romans - Cicero - named after a chickpea, Caesar - hairy, Africanus - named after a famous battle, Cato - wise, Cassius - vain. You may not get any nickname from the community or you may get one you don't like. If you want one, give yourself one. Don't rely on others. And some people are still in the pagan closet, so to speak, so they may not want to bandy around their real names.
I dont think that we should change our legal names for the disrespect to our family and our own ancestors. But having it be something from the folk for the folk as like you said a nickname. That seems more appropriate.
Yes, I see people legally changing their whole name in the kundalini community and I don’t think it’s right. A nickname bestowed by the community is the way forward
I'm changing mine but that's because I don't want to associate with what my family line has become, coupled with a long history of abuse. But my chosen name change won't be intrinsically pagan, either.
I’m legally changing my name soon from [REDACTED] to Lazarus Black. I know it’s changing from one judeochristian name to another but coming from my family I feel comfortable identifying with a man who in Christian lore rose from the dead. It’s my new beginning outside of my family
Well personally, i think changing names could be beneficial. Its not necessarily disrespect if you keep your last name the same or take on the last name of a family member. So in that way it still respects the ancestors. I changed my name from Nathen to Floki. However kept my last name of Wells
In my opinion changing your name for religious reasons like this seems more like larping. And is in my opinion kind of disrespectful. I mean eat our food, use our inventions and worship our gods. But changing your name to one of ours while you live on the other side of the globe just feels like you're trying to be one of us because you think its kind of cool. Neither do I think the gods would be proud of someone forsaking their birth name for some character they want to play pretend as; and disrespecting your own lineage.
I go by Torsten, which is derived from Thorstein, and is the old version of my legal name. I was raised Christian, and I knew nothing about the old Germanic/Norse Gods. Years ago, via an intense dream/vision I encountered something so intense. I as a Christian was conversing with pagan friends of my wife back then. They were stunned and told me that I encountered Thor. That's what inspired my conversion so to speak. I didn't pick this religion from a book as many have, I had an experience ( along with several throughout the years since) and I was seeking an explanation of it. My name essentially means "stone of Thor" a warrior name. As a lifelong martial artist and former soldier, this fits. Me adopting the old version of my name is a homecoming, a reminder of who I really am.
My mother’s maiden name was Thursten. I always wondered if it was originally Thorstein and changed when coming to America. I always liked the name Torsten.
I forgot about this until you brought it up, but there's a very similar thing in ASL and the Deaf community. Most Deaf people will get a sign name based on who they are or something incredible they've done. Usually it will be the first letter of their name, and then a sign to represent that thing. And when Deaf people come to an ASL class and get asked to assign sign names, they often do a basic name because they don't really know those students. My teacher's name is Brenda, and her sign name is a B going across her cheek because she's always smiling. One of her students was Greg, and he wore an earring. So the Deaf person gave him the sign name of G at the ear, like an earring. Which is also very similar to the sign for gay/homosexual at the time, so he wasn't very happy with it. And since there aren't that many Deaf people they have a very close community. They can tell almost immediately if you made up a sign name, and they'll ask who gave it to you and why, since they will most likely know everyone else in the community and they've never heard of you. And it's very offensive to them for you to just make up a sign name for yourself because they only give them to trusted and respected outsiders who have joined their community. I could see a similar thing here where if you suddenly say your pagan name is "Grey Mane" because you thought it was cool, I would ask how you obtained that name and how it fits, especially if you don't have grey hair or a beard. That could even be your "baptism" if you like, because it shows you have done so much for our community that you're formally accepted, like how Jacob earned Fiery Priest. And I agree, it's badass and very fitting.
@@TheWisdomOfOdin Also fun fact, if you were curious the community uses Deaf with a capital D to refer to people who are deaf or hard of hearing, and also use sign language. They also take it very personally if you treat them as disabled, and get very offended if they see beggars asking for change just because they're deaf, especially if they claim to be Deaf. Also, they have their own genre/form of music. Since they can't hear their music is instead comprised entirely of bass because they can feel it in their body. I've never heard/felt their music personally but if you've been near the speakers at a concert, rave or school dance I assume it's something similar to that but with varying strengths to differentiate the notes.
Witches do it in general, especially for those who deal with the occult and other worlds. I think the most important is to have a magical name when you astral travel because there's no guarantee you'll only meet good entities with no harmful intentions. Giving them your actual name would be a mistake, so that's when a magical name comes in handy
My Tribe gave me the name "Talon" right after my initiation as an adult in the eyes of my Tribe. I chose to keep Talon as my Magickal name when I started down my Witchcraft journey about 30yrs ago
As a witch following a Norse pagan path I find this a really interesting debate as it’s common for witches to choose a magical name they will use for spiritual work, spell castings and ceremonies to connect with their higher rather than just earthly selves. Sometimes this name will be kept very private and sacred as some believe that to know the secret name of another could give that person power over them if used in their own workings (think of the tales of rumplestilskin). Others openly declare it and feel it more truly reflects who they are both in their soul and their community. Most often times people will find this name themselves through meditation and sedir work, others will be given it by their deity or ancestors. I am really enjoying hearing all these alternative opinions. It’s a different and valid truth for everyone. Some people take deep pride in their roots and want to segment or enhance the different areas of their lives; others don’t want to be associated with their family, or feel if anyone has a right to name them it could only ever be themselves. Really interesting topic! Also that tree is an AMAZING spot for filming!
When I read the title I thought you meant naming our children and pets after the gods, and norse history, but I see what you mean now. I feel it's what you're comfortable with. My name's Thomas, which is christian, but I like the sound of the name, so I'm happy to stick with it, but if I'm given a norse nickname, I'd happily take it up. Same with kids and pets. I was actually thinking of the name Skaldi if I have a kid one day
Pets is not a bad idea either. ^_^ I'm nearly 30 now, Swedish, but when I was eleven and started getting into birds, I gave all my birds old Norse names. The first was Fenris (our name for Fenrir), a cockatiel, Freja, a lovebird, then Idun, another cockatiel (who turned out to be a boy...), and Saga, a Meyer's parrot I still have. I wanted to get an amazon and name it Balder or Birka (an viking trading town in central Sweden), but that did not happen. I decided also not to name my dog "Balder" because of how it's read by English speakers... "more bald". (We pronounce Balder with a light "ah" sound that English doesn't really have.)
While I want to give my children Norse names, and they don't stick out here in Norway, my husband will have to agree on those. Norse names are interesting because they're often made of two parts. My grandfathers were named Edvin and Ulric. Approximately, "Ed-vin" means "prosperity-friend", and "Ul-ric" means "wolf-power/wealth/ruler". I had the name "Edric" laying around for a while, and realized it was my grandfathers' names, switched around. Ed-ric. I thought, what if I switch it the other way around? Ulvin - wolf friend. I can't find that name on any name site, even nordic ones, but there are a handful of Ulvins here in Norway, according to the national registry. :D
When naming a newborn child, the Patriarch (I think) or someone similar would sprinkle water on their head and say the child's name. The person who "Names" the child would also be expected to give a Naming Gift. I learned of this ceremony from reading the Icelandic Sagas, and it seemed to be common in Norway, and was continued after people had moved to Iceland.
I think you hit the nail on the head regarding the names there. I always found giving yourself a name was slightly too presumptuous especially if you name yourself after a god or hero. But instead to me, I see names the same way I see tattoos, theyre there for life (once you start having people call you that) and they should really mean somethings to you. So I think having your folk and community name you, it fits in with the whole gifting cycle of Paganism in general, because it's like being gifted a name based on the reputation you've carved for yourself, but also you've already done the work to earn that name. It also works in the sense you can have multiple names given to you by multiple communities that you interact with. To one community you might be the Red Priest but to another group you might be...Thunder voice... or Odin kin or something I dont know. But it gives you the chance to show your different attributes in different situations. To one group of people you could be a healer, to another group you're a fighter. It also helps when gaining reputation which was important in lots of forms of pagan life. Skal.
Such a wonderful topic! I have been Pagan for 20 years and the concept of a other name was one of the first things I remember really sinking into when I first started reading books on the topic. However, it never felt right. It felt wrong to give myself a name and I have never truly known what I would call myself. However, having a name bestowed upon me in the community would feel more natural. So for now, I will just stick with Daina. :) However, interestingly enough while I was pregnant with my youngest son my connection to the Norse gods became strong. I ended up naming him Arthor. Partly for that and also because my husband and I are both mostly of Scandinavian decent. In regards to baptism, that is something I have never been drawn to either. I was not myself so when I became a pagan I didn't see the need. However, my getting the runes tattooed on my opened up the gods coming to me, I believe. Because everything became stronger after that. (Including becoming pregnant with my second son.)
I love that you give coffee to the tree I thought I was the only one. I take a cup of coffee out to Homgar my landvaettir friend and home protector every Sunday morning and sit and just enjoy what that day has brought us.
I’ve had a pagan name for a long time, it’s not something I’d legally change but it’s also not something anyone else gets to call me besides other pagans. Not everyone has good relationships with their family so I can understand changing your name for personal reasons, just be ready for the consequences of your actions.
It does? I thought baptism was to purge an individual of previous sin. Since we have no form of sin, and baptism can't restore your honor, it serves no purpose.
@@asherdevinit may serve no purpose to you maybe. I see it as more of a ritual to show you are devoted to this faith, I dont have the same definition of baptism as you do.
@@creeker230 Yeah sorry, my internet sucks over here and I commented while waiting for the video to load. I just finished it and was like "Shit, I should probably go apologize to that guy because I am way off"
I work in sales and was upgrading a phone for a young lady who was heavily pregnant who told me she was in two minds whether to name her child Odin or Loki! The couple were clearly Norse Pagans and were pleasantly surprised when I showed them my Mjollnir amulet. I don't know about the US but in the UK Norse Paganism is becoming more & more visable.
I'm sorry but I do have to judge the character of anyone naming their kid Loki. XD Sounds more like they watched some Marvel movies. Loki was never worshiped, why name a child after him?
My grandmother suggested I be named Matthew from the Apostle and my mother went with that, Gordon is the middle name of my dad and the first name of my paternal grandfather. Personally I like my names, whether they be Judeo Christian or not. They don't take away from the fact that I am a Pagan or that I am the first Pagan (that I am aware of), in my family for centuries. I think if someone wants to take on a Germanic name they should be allowed, I have always been partial to Old English names myself. If it helps someone connect with their path and or heritage, I say more power to em.
I think in the same way religions, from Wicca to Judaism, have specific religious names it’s followers choose, it’s perfectly appropriate for a Norse pagan to pick a spiritual name
I am from northern Germany and grew up around Ole's, Ragnar's, Lasse's, Hauke's and Fenya's, and ever since I was quite young I've lived the name Ragnar so much xD
I haven't been baptized either. I believe it was a good way to so my dedication to paganism. I've been happy finding this faith and hope more come into this faith feeling the same!
Having "pagan names", is not only a weird concept, but also seems to be just copying Judaism's Hebrew names. Norse pagans didnt choose their names due to paganism, they did it due to culture, just like today. And since its connected to culture, there wont be a name that belongs to paganism any more than it belongs to Christianity. I'm a heathen, my first name is more connected to anglo-saxon roots, and my middle name roots in old norse. But I love both, because both originated from my great grandfather on both sides.
Hey loving the videos!! I believe the gods set me on a path to find them and to find you I have been thrown signs and I kinda just knew without actually consciously knowing myself I am from a Christian back ground I was baptised as a child and attended church but was never drawn to it so to say I never had an attachment To the Christian god but have felt a pull towards the gods and Norse paganism i am still very early on in my journey but your videos are certainly something that I think any young pagan beginning there journey should watch your videos educationally and recreationally as there so binge worthy 😂 but I was curious as to how you managed to retrace your family history to Scandinavia over hundreds of years I wonder if my ancestors were also from there and that is why I feel a pull towards it
I was born with my father's last name and middle name came from his grandfather. Well, my father wasn't in my life and was abusive towards me as a toddler. So when I was 20 I felt this urge, this calling to change the middle and last name. I had grown up with stories about my great uncle Samuel, him serving in WW2 and raising my mother. I grew up with stories about my mother's grandfather and how he shouldered the burden of raising not only his children but his brother's children during the depression. So with my mother's permission I legally changed my name to Jason Samuel Harvey. Not particularly pagan....(well except for the name Jason)...but it has a deep meaning for me. And now I have passed those names onto my children.
This is a great video! I totally agree with you. I went with a pagan name that's broadly western that works with my language and current culture. Though my family does have scandinavian names, they certainly arent quite as fantastical as most pagan names 😉 I chose my own pagan name, but I "go by" my birth name. Our people have a great dichotomy between the ancient pagan urges and the more recent christianization, but the truth of our history lies in *both*. I do hope my family leads our lineage away from christianity. Additionally, I love to observe how consistent we all are w symbolic tattoos and names. 💖
Also a interesting story, some stuff happened between the family and my mothers name got changed and she put it back to madsen, mads is her ancestor and not the other name, when she reversed it back to madsen when se was 18 she saw her grandpa and other ancestors that now guard her
My name is Aurora, but my last name is Erikson and I'm from Minnesota which has some of the largest populations of Norwegians in the US. I'm kind of on an ancestral journey right now, trying to learn about my history 😄
Not sure what to call myself other than a Norse Pagan(originally a Wiccan) who happens to be a Native American with 3 Tribal cultures in my ancestry. That mixed with tons of German in my background. I chose the name " Talon" for myself over 30yrs ago when I worked as a Vet.Tech at a zoo working around predatory birds. My first word was bird My name is Jay(a type of bird) I am from the Hummingbird Clan within my Tribe. I don't know why but I kept gravitating back to Talon after my 1st° initiation. As for a Baptism no need if that person has gone thru initiation into a ritual group or into a Tradition itself. Unlike most Wiccans I offer my people only 1 initiation but teach materials and techniques taught at all 3 initials in most Covens. I mean you are either in or your not. So only one is really necessary
Yo.. that bird in the beginning haha My father was given the name Steve Glen ( last names omitted) by his Aunt and never felt loved or involved in the typical Christian pathways and nor did he have a great childhood by his adopted family. He officially changed his name, legally changed his name to Bjorn Baldur at the age of 55. It took him several years to feel connected to a name and commit to it. He officially did it and felt free and of his own self. It was very profound but in his case, I think it was very acceptable to change his name.
I understand the nickname for the folk. Because my family has nicknames based off personality and things we do and are good at, so I could get behind the baptism by naming.
In my opinion a sort of pagan baptism is the first time you hear the voice of gods, becouse like the Christian baptism you met for the first time the faith and the gods
I was searching for my North peg and name instead of my Christian name And I was granted my name by the God's they came to me in a vision I am so much happier now and feel more awake in life
So here is my own take on it... I have my family who has been learning with me and finding our selves and our path. My wife stared calling me veidr because my name is chase and was gonna be hunt at birth so she decided it fit because we are creating the begining of our family tree as norse pagans and since i got into my grandfather died i haven't stopped thinking about his stories i am proud of my German ancestors and wish to continue a long lost tradition
I find it funny that you say that we should not give us our new names. My name Nuna was given me by my niece when she was two years old. And i sticked with it since 😊
It is an interesting idea, particularly the baptism as formal parting of ways. Here is a gamer's perspective. I was named David by my parents, a name I have never liked but it is what I am known as legally and in most circles of my life. Many years ago when online gaming replaced single player for me I had to choose a name to be known by in that community. At the time I worked at a pool company that was very much viking themed. I chose a name for myself, Knarr. It is an Old Norse term for a type of ship built for long sea voyages. It seemed fitting to me and I have been using it for nearly 20 years. I have friends that only call me Knarr. If ever I were to change my name it would be only to make what I already called my name to those in all the other circles. It is who I am. The point is we, like Odin, can wear different names for different audiences and they don't need to all be down on paper to make it real.
Personally I think the names are a way to involve yourself a bit more, to submerge, but I don't think I would change it permanently as of right now just because I chose the name Aðakán because it means fire, Aidan means fire, they both tie back to the Celts, but the Eth (ð) I don't thing (maybe I'm wrong) is not a valid character to be in an English or American name, so I don't think it's possible. (Of course you can change it to th instead of ð but still)
I know that the State of California doesn't allow anything not in the ASCII encoding to be registered as an official name because it would be too expensive to modify all the systems to handle it, so for example all surnames containing Ñ are officially spelled with an N instead, and that state has a bunch of people with names containing that character. Unless the state you live in does allow non-ASCII in names, you could just transcribe the ð to th.
In this day and age your allowed to change your name to whatever you want it to be, have the name you want period don't be to eager to change it though don't let your name define you doesn't make you any less of anything
I personally would not change my name because you should honour what you're given by your family. My surname is Scottish derived and I am proud of that heritage. If you have children then you can think of a more Scandinavian name to give them. I haven't, so our cat is called Loki! I can understand having a pagan name for ritual purposes though.
The last few days i was wondering and looking for a Pagan name for myself... i stumbled on this video and did some research about my name. Since i was a young kid i new the meaning of my name... and it is a name mostly used in Germany. This is what i found on the web: Rolf is a Germanic boy name. The name Rolf is a shortened version of the name Rudolf. The name came and is common in Saxon regions. In the German-speaking countries, the name was popularized by Rudolf I of the Holy Roman Empire (1273-1291). The name comes from the Germanic language of the old Germanic Hrodulf, made up of the tribes Ru(d)-, Ro(d)- and -(w)olf. The name means something like 'glorious wolf'. Other variants of Rudolf include the shortened forms Roelf, Roelof, Ruud, Rudy, Rudi, Dolf, Frans Raoul, and the English Rudyard... After reading this on the web and watching this video... No i don't need a Pagan name... My name is a more modern version of an old name used by the Germanic tribes... Thanks for the informative video's! I started as an Atheist than decided to be a Pagan, tried Wicca, fun but not my thing, became a Pagan again, in the broadest of the word. Looking to the Celts, Norse, Hellenic, and of course Egyptian Gods and Godesses. I don't know why but in 2015 i was looking around in Asatru but not practicing. Watching your video's here on TH-cam i am learning! Thanks again!
I was raised Christian, and identify as such, but my middle name (which, according to my mother, was chosen by my dad because it was the name of an actress he liked at the time) is the name of both a Celtic goddess and an Irish saint, and also has equivalents in the Nordic languages. I also know a Christian couple where the dad has Scandinavian roots (not sure how far back), and they named their kids Freyja and Ragnar.
My family's surnames are still pretty close to our origins in their respective countries. My maiden name came from my great grandfather immigrating to America from Norway. When he came over he took his home village's name and used it as his surname. On my mother's side, my grandmother held the Cameron surname until she married - the name of our Scottish clan.
Personally i feel like our names are weaved in fate although I'm fairly new to norse paganism so I'm not going to judge anyone else. I feel like this is a situation like we have to use our intuition however if you feel the need to change your name and you cannot shake that feeling then something may be there to explore more. I've been into paganism itself for a few years and the cool thing about paganism is that there are no set rules carved in stone so that allows the gods to speak to you directly and if you get a feeling you can't shake then go and explore that feeling, whether it be a name, baptism, ritual, or any other aspect of norse paganism because it will strengthen your relationship with the gods
I personally think we as Americans should keep our names. I feel it wrong to keep taking culture away from others like we did when we colonized America. I also see it as disrespect to our parents that chose that name for us. I completely understand if it's a nickname. But as a permanent name I'm going to say no
If I were to change my name at all it would be my last name, because for some reason when my 4th great grandfather came over to America he changed it to Anderson , instead of Andersson with two S. Then after a few years he literally went back to 🇸🇪, had a baby then stayed in 🇸🇪 lmao. His son Olaf was the one who would come back to America in the later years lmao.
My brothers name was Torsten. Im a german (Bavarian), living in canada, headed south to the desert of arizona to live off grid, getting back to my grandparents roots of self reliance. I have always been proud of my germanic ancestry and ancestors. Lately been finding my self drawn more to the pagan religion. I can relate to it better then christianity especially with whats going on in modern society and this covid19, un agenda 2030, the great reset etc stuff going on.
My name is Isaac because of the bible story. It means laughter. He was called that because his mom laughed thinking she was too old to give birth. And my parents were a bit old when I was born. The reason for my name is not my favorite but I can't imagine being called anything else. Except I will answer to Ike. I had a proffesor that insisted on shortening Isaac to Ike
Ive taken my mothers name and not my fathers, my mother is danish and the sursame is madsen. I took it because im mads his son. He is my ancestor. My dutch/christian name is schouten but it felt right to take madsen, im proud to have pagan ancestors!
Just an idea, but I think those who serve and help the gods, or really earn it, be it helping around the hall, or maybe building it. Or just being a well known pegan with a good reputation as, let's say a hunter or leather-worker. I think that we should have cerimonies at the hall in which the folk will select their new name. And that would be similar to a baptism. Just being officiated as a pegan to the folk and to the gods by earning their name. Skål!
I personal like the idea of the clash of the christian names with names that we get from the folk but what could i do with there not being a strong Nordic pagan community in Oklahoma? But i can also agree with the fact that you shouldn't be able to name yourself a traditional Nordic name just out of thin air it should be earned and given to you and in a way you being given that name is a form of being baptized by the folk and culture.
I'm from Sweden, and I can tell you we don't have many of those beautiful Pagan names anymore, unfortunately. Now we go by slighly Nordic versions of Biblical and other Western names, mostly. Like Linnea, Adam, Emma, Julia, Sara, Andreas, Niklas, Daniel, etc, are some of the most common Swedish names of today. Even Jakob is super common here. It's just pronounced slightly differently. I'm sure you recognise some if not all of those names. The Nordic countries got Christianised back then too, although there is still some legacy carried on from our ancestors to our modern culture in other ways, our names didn't follow suit. But sure, there are a few Swedes with names like Sigrid and Herbert, etc, but it's very rare and they're generally old people. Iceland is the only Nordic country that's still connected to the old language and names. Sweden, Norway and Denmark all modernised, and Finland was never really part of that culture to begin with. I would not personally take offense to if an American took on one of the Ancient Nordic names, that used to be popular here over a thousand years ago. As long as it's to honour my culture, and not just because of an "oh it looked pretty but idc about what it means lol" kinda attitude, you know. That would feel disrespectful. So as long as you're not being disrespectful about your name choice, I'd be totally fine with it. As for myself, I did actually try to take on a slightly more modern version of a Pagan name: Sigvard (derived from Sigurd, a hardly mentioned character, and is used as a name in Sweden even to this day, but has gone out of fashion, so is rare) which really speaks to me, but I noticed that being Sigvard made me start developing sort of a persona around how I wanted to be, as this cool viking guy, basically... instead of who I actually am. Which is that I'm a bearded, bald tranny with an affinity for certain viking culture. And that is sorta relevant, because although I'm happy with having medically "become" a man, as I was born female... I eventually decided to take back the name my parents gave me at birth, which is: Sara. Even though I'm so unlikely to connect to it, it's my name. I feel like it's MY name. And to me that is a far better way to honour my family and where I came from, than taking on an old Norse name. It's not just honouring my biological sex (although I still embrace my physical/medical transition as well. I mean, I'm sure there were a few women who lived as men back then too, or at least I know that female warriors were a thing, albeit rare.) But also accepting that it's not year 850 anymore, and it would be kinda strange to pretend that it is. The modern vikings watch youtube, wear jeans, work at offices and have names like Sara and Jakob. Whether they're American or Scandinavian. That's just kinda happened. So I don't think it should be necessary to change your name as a Norse Pagan, but by all means, do so if you want to.
I agree with you, I just want to add something about Swedish names - actually far more are Germanic/Nordic than we think, but they have changed from, like in my case, Fríða, to Frida. My middle name, Ulrica/Ulrika, isn't that rare either. Going to the page "Nordiska namn" at "kulturbilder" (can't type url here), I quickly find the following that are pretty common still today: Alva, Astrid, Britt/Britta, Ellen, Erika, Gudrun, Gun, Gunilla, Inger, Ingrid, Linda, Solveig, Ulla, Arvid, Birger (I actually didn't think it was that common, but there are 15k Birger in Sweden), Björn, Börje, Erik, Folke, Gunnar, Harald, Håkan, Ingemar, Ivar, Kjell, Leif, Sten, Stig, Sture, Sven, Tage, Ulf, Yngve, Åke. A lot of these are only really seen in the older generation (
I come from a atheist/heavy Christian family and most of my life has been a journey and still is and I have always in a way detoured by the Christian faith and most of my father's family are catholic and their churches always are asking for something from the worshiper like donation back to my point you and Einar selvic to Discover this path and wherever it takes me
I’ve personally been on the searching for a more Nordic nickname. And I want to be able to express my belief with a form or “baptism” but I believe oath rings or some ritual could kinda be that form of “baptism” I am looking for although I do not know much about either of them but I am seeking that knowledge. I’d like to know what everyone else thinks on the subject as well
If you're lucky enough to know a lot about your family, you can also take a family name of non-Biblical origins. Nobody's going to tell me I can't name myself after my own family member. That said, I won't be changing my name, but I've considered adding to it. I enjoy your idea about folk-granted names a great deal, and I agree with your take on it. re: baptism, it reminded me: there are occult traditions for ritually renouncing or your Christian baptism, but they rely on a sort of undoing of the rite using Christian forms, which many don't want to participate in. You also need to either believe in the devil, or believe in a pagan god that had been demonized by Christian practice to the point where early medieval devotees would indeed identify that they worshiped the devil. The rite involves interaction with said figure. I'm aware of this being a thing with some old gods in Britain, but not elsewhere. The occult tradition I'm aware of for undoing a baptism is based heavily British traditions and gods of witchcraft. The whole rite doesn't seem to work with norse paganism, in my opinion. (For those curious about it, look for the ritual in British Traditional Witchcraft; it involves stealing the Host, walking backwards around a church three times at midnight, and feeding the Host to the form of the devil that appears to you, usually a toad or a dog. Again, this rite is aimed specifically for interaction with certain gods of magic, witchcraft, and nature, and relies entirely on Christian forms and paradigms, so most pagans will probably not find it appropriate. I've brought it up here solely as a point of conversation and interest, and to show that there do exist some traditional rituals for renouncing Christian baptism.)
My name is chase after the name hunter which i was supposed to be named.. And my wife has been calling me veidr for a few months now and really has grown on me
One of the commenters compared the taking of a Nordic name to the taking of a magical name in Wicca. I'm not sure I agree with that. I would say that the taking on of a Nordic name would be more aptly compared to when a person chooses a middle name at their confirmation ceremony in Catholicism. The will choose the name of a saint, or a family member, or some historic personage that has some meaning to them. When I ran a kindred back in the 90's (I've been walking the Nordic path for about 30 years) and part of the ceremony of dedication for becoming a full member was the OPTION of taking on a Nordic name. Some already had one before they joined because they have been involved in Asatru for some time before Joining the Kindred, others took on after joining us and some didn't see the need and so didn't take one at all. For me, for us it really came down to whether or not we felt that taking on such a name made on feel more connected to the Gods. For me, it did, for others they felt their connection was strong enough without it. I don't personally know of anyone that has legally changed their name to their chosen Nordic, although I do not doubt that there are some that have. I even flirted with the idea myself for a time, but ultimately decided against it, despite my distasted for my first name (which is why I use my middle name, Alex). Ultimately, it really does come down to a personal preference and I don't know that whether a person should, or should not take on such a name as part of their religious life is a call that anyone can, or should make for another. We can explain to them why we, as individuals have, or have not done that, but the decision really is one that each of us has to make for themselves. The name I took, Kveldulf, I feel is an expression of a part of myself that the name my parents gave me does not reflect, and in some ways my given name is almost antithetical to who and what I understand myself to be. (For the record my given first name is Tracy so you can understand why I have such a distaste for it and why use my middle name as much as possible). Basically, it's what ever the individual is more comfortable with and what makes them feel more connected to the gods.
Names are just that.. A man/woman are defined by actions not words.. Be proud of what we have earned.. The gods just point us in the right direction and it's up to us to make it magical. Skal!
I agree that a name should be given by the community. That name should be chosen for you for something you’ve done or known for. Baptisms on the other hand I don’t think is needed. If a ritual is needed to accept someone into the community then maybe present that person with an arm ring, which I’m pretty sure were used to symbolize coming of age and being welcomed by the folk
I think a Tattoo is a great indoctrination into this faith. It's a show of strength and commitment. You gave me an idea, I think I might get the Raido rune tattoo to show my journey has begun.
So, my significant other is Norse Pagan and I am Jewish. It is important that my children are raised knowing about both my beliefs and my significant others as well. I want to maybe talk to you all who are Pagan about how you feel with a "mixed faith" name a (Jewish first name and Norse middle name for example) as their line goes back being Jewish for hundreds of years on my side and is traceable back similarly on my significant others side from what I understand. I just want to be as respectful of BOTH cultures and histories as possible. Any thoughts? or people who you think would be open to talking to me and explaining things to me?
Viking culture held very closely to their ancestors and it was very central to them. So I think if we choose names because of our ancestors. The gods will forgive us. My name is Sean. Which is a Gaelic word for gift from god/the gods. My great grandma came from Ireland. Before that Norway Denmark area
I dont know if anyone will read this but if am being honest i agree with what you are saying im still new to this and im still trying to fined my footing so hears hoping i get a cool nickname, but on a series note i just cant wait to meet people who are on the same path and well lets see where it gos and what we as the folk take it. also if anyone knows where i can get good reading for this stuff in aoudo book form as im dislexic would be a grat help thanks
When it come to baptism i think there is a need to renounce it that seems like nonsense. But there is also no need have a new one that is in the name of goal or a pantheon of deities or just the ones you feel closest to. These are just personal choices people can make.
Im only just begining my journey, so my opinion may bear little weight. I, personally, do want a pagan name. My 'real name' sounds foreign to me, it has for well over a decade. I'm named for my grandfather, someone i never connected to. From a culture not mine. I'm adopted you see, and i've known since i was 4. I knew the cultures i was being raised in were not mine, and maybe as a side effect of my autism, i never did connect to them, i never felt apart. I never felt right. Now, after tracing my DNA, and finding out who my ancestors were, i want to connect, to any place, to someplace, and my connection is in that distant past. I want to feel, for the first time, like i have a people. I want a name, that i feel, i own, that is me, at this moment.
I don't think we should have a baptism but an unbaptism would be good. Because to me, baptism is a ceremony, a ritual that isn't that far away from witchcraft in general and I think an unbaptism to release it would be good.
I use two names one in my craft and one in the world. My worldy name is rin however if im giving an offering to the nature spirits or working on meditation/practicing seidr i prefer the name fridda.. Its also more safer using a spiritual name so no negitive entities could connect to your worldy name.. So norse pagans who dont know me well will call me fridda however once we get close and become friends ill tell them my actual name thats rin
My name isn’t Christian-affiliated and I’m a pretty new pagan so I don’t really have any interest in changing my name, legally or otherwise, right now. Maybe that’ll change as I progress through this journey.
I am becoming a norse pagan a few months ago form an atheist path. and i personally think we don't need a new name when we take a different path into or life our name carrying our legacy its can help to release you of your of your path before butt i feel not needed form my previous path! I can understand that people with an other background will choice for a pagan name.
wasn't a way of "baptism" in the Norse kinda like the youth or new comers receiving their arm bands? I know it was to show loyalty to the Jarl but isn't it also kinda like showing loyalty to the Gods because they are technically the ones who chose the Jarls?
I am an AA guy that has been a seeker for years. I was called be odin while in meditation, and have been following the Aesir gods' advice for improving my health and expanding my knowledge(by reading the poetic edda )on this religion. There are a lot of things i must learn, but i am determined to seek wisdom. Am i welcome? regardless, i will continue to seek the old ways with odin's blessing. But im curious of what you guys think.
im named like my father, Hærvarðr, but the German government changed it to Herwarth, because ,æ and ð are symbols and its not allowed in a passport. I feel restrained in my heritage.
If Christians baptised the pagans back them, how fitting for us to re-baptise ourself back to paganism. I think it would be a great modern Norse way of taking our faith back, and funny to read back on in history of how we brought back Norse paganism & now have a form of blot/ritual for new people who are new
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I was born catholic and when I was young my dad gave me a wooden cross. Throughout my life I have carved different things on it depicting my spiritual and religious journey. When I got into Germanic Peganism I chopped the bottom part of the cross to create a mjolnir and in a way I felt like a new person.
Thats actually pretty badass!
That’s so beautiful! Wow
Cool story. Thanks for sharing
Now that's an pretty epic gaming moment. But all jokes aside that's kinda badass. Good for you man
Awesome story
I am very proud to have the same name as my forefather Önundur Víkingsson who took land in my fjord the year 925 and named it Önundarfjörður. I have always related very strongly to Ásatrú. It is my religion. It is my heritage witch makes me proud. Being Icelandic also makes it easy for me to read and understand the old language, that brings me closer to my ancestors. Thank you for these videos you are doing a great job spreading the wisdom of Odin.
I was born in Keflavik, Iceland. Even with dual citizenship (usa ) I've always felt called to Odin. Called to my motherland and wish to return one day. Id love to converse with someone both of my faith and my homeland!
Önundur, how do you feel when people mispronounce the Icelandic names?
@@QuiltingCrow it's usually just funny. But Hollywood has just flat out taken the names and butchered them again and again.
I am devoting my life to Norse paganism. I left Hinduism to follow Odin. I feel connected to Norse gods more than I've felt connected to anyone
Hinduism?
@@Brillsama Religion from India. Distant relative of Germanic Paganism.
Spot on. When a name fits, it fits. It will come to anyone who is looking for it.
I honestly agree with you. We should get them from our community/kin. However, the Christian's did re name pagans when they converted so I don't see an issue with taking a pagan name tbh. 🤷♂️ I think, that it should be up to the individual.
No, to baptism. That is too associated with Christianity, indicating that a child's soul is lost unless they're baptized. I really doubt the Norse felt that way about babies. So why bother? As for names, who in the world actually said "No,you have to earn them. those aren't your names." Fuck that. Most of us have names from the bible and we're not Jewish, so why do pagan names have to be 'earned'? If people say they're pagan, they're pagan. Period. They can choose whatever name they'd like. As for the community naming, made me chuckle. Reminds me of that line from Pirates of the Caribbean, "I once sailed with a geezer who had one eye, and one arm." "What'd you call him?" "Larry". The community doesn't often give nicknames, unless you standout in some way. Good or bad. Look at the Romans - Cicero - named after a chickpea, Caesar - hairy, Africanus - named after a famous battle, Cato - wise, Cassius - vain. You may not get any nickname from the community or you may get one you don't like. If you want one, give yourself one. Don't rely on others. And some people are still in the pagan closet, so to speak, so they may not want to bandy around their real names.
I use names that I earned. I have 2 of them
I dont think that we should change our legal names for the disrespect to our family and our own ancestors.
But having it be something from the folk for the folk as like you said a nickname. That seems more appropriate.
Yes, I see people legally changing their whole name in the kundalini community and I don’t think it’s right. A nickname bestowed by the community is the way forward
I'm changing mine but that's because I don't want to associate with what my family line has become, coupled with a long history of abuse. But my chosen name change won't be intrinsically pagan, either.
I’m legally changing my name soon from [REDACTED] to Lazarus Black. I know it’s changing from one judeochristian name to another but coming from my family I feel comfortable identifying with a man who in Christian lore rose from the dead. It’s my new beginning outside of my family
Well personally, i think changing names could be beneficial. Its not necessarily disrespect if you keep your last name the same or take on the last name of a family member. So in that way it still respects the ancestors. I changed my name from Nathen to Floki. However kept my last name of Wells
In my opinion changing your name for religious reasons like this seems more like larping. And is in my opinion kind of disrespectful. I mean eat our food, use our inventions and worship our gods. But changing your name to one of ours while you live on the other side of the globe just feels like you're trying to be one of us because you think its kind of cool.
Neither do I think the gods would be proud of someone forsaking their birth name for some character they want to play pretend as; and disrespecting your own lineage.
I go by Torsten, which is derived from Thorstein, and is the old version of my legal name. I was raised Christian, and I knew nothing about the old Germanic/Norse Gods. Years ago, via an intense dream/vision I encountered something so intense. I as a Christian was conversing with pagan friends of my wife back then. They were stunned and told me that I encountered Thor. That's what inspired my conversion so to speak. I didn't pick this religion from a book as many have, I had an experience ( along with several throughout the years since) and I was seeking an explanation of it. My name essentially means "stone of Thor" a warrior name. As a lifelong martial artist and former soldier, this fits. Me adopting the old version of my name is a homecoming, a reminder of who I really am.
My mother’s maiden name was Thursten. I always wondered if it was originally Thorstein and changed when coming to America. I always liked the name Torsten.
@@PJAndersson733 in light of my experiences with Thor, the name feels right to me.
Torsten Wyrmsblood that’s amazing.
Stein means strong, not stone. Torsten is the swedish/latvian version of the norse þorstein.
@@geirarnehelland7271 thanks for the correction, I had read it long ago somewhere else. Either way makes sense, though strong seems better.
I forgot about this until you brought it up, but there's a very similar thing in ASL and the Deaf community. Most Deaf people will get a sign name based on who they are or something incredible they've done. Usually it will be the first letter of their name, and then a sign to represent that thing. And when Deaf people come to an ASL class and get asked to assign sign names, they often do a basic name because they don't really know those students. My teacher's name is Brenda, and her sign name is a B going across her cheek because she's always smiling. One of her students was Greg, and he wore an earring. So the Deaf person gave him the sign name of G at the ear, like an earring. Which is also very similar to the sign for gay/homosexual at the time, so he wasn't very happy with it. And since there aren't that many Deaf people they have a very close community. They can tell almost immediately if you made up a sign name, and they'll ask who gave it to you and why, since they will most likely know everyone else in the community and they've never heard of you. And it's very offensive to them for you to just make up a sign name for yourself because they only give them to trusted and respected outsiders who have joined their community. I could see a similar thing here where if you suddenly say your pagan name is "Grey Mane" because you thought it was cool, I would ask how you obtained that name and how it fits, especially if you don't have grey hair or a beard. That could even be your "baptism" if you like, because it shows you have done so much for our community that you're formally accepted, like how Jacob earned Fiery Priest. And I agree, it's badass and very fitting.
Amazing! Tank you for sharing that, I would of never known about that otherwise!
@@TheWisdomOfOdin Also fun fact, if you were curious the community uses Deaf with a capital D to refer to people who are deaf or hard of hearing, and also use sign language. They also take it very personally if you treat them as disabled, and get very offended if they see beggars asking for change just because they're deaf, especially if they claim to be Deaf. Also, they have their own genre/form of music. Since they can't hear their music is instead comprised entirely of bass because they can feel it in their body. I've never heard/felt their music personally but if you've been near the speakers at a concert, rave or school dance I assume it's something similar to that but with varying strengths to differentiate the notes.
I think choosing a pagan name is a carry over from wicca. Where they chose a magical name.
Witches do it in general, especially for those who deal with the occult and other worlds. I think the most important is to have a magical name when you astral travel because there's no guarantee you'll only meet good entities with no harmful intentions. Giving them your actual name would be a mistake, so that's when a magical name comes in handy
Alchemy does the same thing. Herbal names, mine is weird
My Tribe gave me the name "Talon" right after my initiation as an adult in the eyes of my Tribe. I chose to keep Talon as my Magickal name when I started down my Witchcraft journey about 30yrs ago
I think there's barely any coven who still do this
As a witch following a Norse pagan path I find this a really interesting debate as it’s common for witches to choose a magical name they will use for spiritual work, spell castings and ceremonies to connect with their higher rather than just earthly selves. Sometimes this name will be kept very private and sacred as some believe that to know the secret name of another could give that person power over them if used in their own workings (think of the tales of rumplestilskin). Others openly declare it and feel it more truly reflects who they are both in their soul and their community. Most often times people will find this name themselves through meditation and sedir work, others will be given it by their deity or ancestors. I am really enjoying hearing all these alternative opinions. It’s a different and valid truth for everyone. Some people take deep pride in their roots and want to segment or enhance the different areas of their lives; others don’t want to be associated with their family, or feel if anyone has a right to name them it could only ever be themselves. Really interesting topic! Also that tree is an AMAZING spot for filming!
Great video Jacob, deffo agree with you, our name should be given by our community if we choose to have a name
When I read the title I thought you meant naming our children and pets after the gods, and norse history, but I see what you mean now. I feel it's what you're comfortable with. My name's Thomas, which is christian, but I like the sound of the name, so I'm happy to stick with it, but if I'm given a norse nickname, I'd happily take it up. Same with kids and pets. I was actually thinking of the name Skaldi if I have a kid one day
Pets is not a bad idea either. ^_^
I'm nearly 30 now, Swedish, but when I was eleven and started getting into birds, I gave all my birds old Norse names. The first was Fenris (our name for Fenrir), a cockatiel, Freja, a lovebird, then Idun, another cockatiel (who turned out to be a boy...), and Saga, a Meyer's parrot I still have.
I wanted to get an amazon and name it Balder or Birka (an viking trading town in central Sweden), but that did not happen. I decided also not to name my dog "Balder" because of how it's read by English speakers... "more bald". (We pronounce Balder with a light "ah" sound that English doesn't really have.)
While I want to give my children Norse names, and they don't stick out here in Norway, my husband will have to agree on those. Norse names are interesting because they're often made of two parts.
My grandfathers were named Edvin and Ulric. Approximately, "Ed-vin" means "prosperity-friend", and "Ul-ric" means "wolf-power/wealth/ruler". I had the name "Edric" laying around for a while, and realized it was my grandfathers' names, switched around. Ed-ric.
I thought, what if I switch it the other way around? Ulvin - wolf friend. I can't find that name on any name site, even nordic ones, but there are a handful of Ulvins here in Norway, according to the national registry. :D
When naming a newborn child, the Patriarch (I think) or someone similar would sprinkle water on their head and say the child's name. The person who "Names" the child would also be expected to give a Naming Gift. I learned of this ceremony from reading the Icelandic Sagas, and it seemed to be common in Norway, and was continued after people had moved to Iceland.
Well, my surname is O'Dunn from the Gaelic ODuinn so..... I kinda' almost do. Say it with a cold and it comes out like Odin.
I think you hit the nail on the head regarding the names there. I always found giving yourself a name was slightly too presumptuous especially if you name yourself after a god or hero. But instead to me, I see names the same way I see tattoos, theyre there for life (once you start having people call you that) and they should really mean somethings to you. So I think having your folk and community name you, it fits in with the whole gifting cycle of Paganism in general, because it's like being gifted a name based on the reputation you've carved for yourself, but also you've already done the work to earn that name. It also works in the sense you can have multiple names given to you by multiple communities that you interact with. To one community you might be the Red Priest but to another group you might be...Thunder voice... or Odin kin or something I dont know. But it gives you the chance to show your different attributes in different situations. To one group of people you could be a healer, to another group you're a fighter. It also helps when gaining reputation which was important in lots of forms of pagan life.
Skal.
Such a wonderful topic! I have been Pagan for 20 years and the concept of a other name was one of the first things I remember really sinking into when I first started reading books on the topic. However, it never felt right. It felt wrong to give myself a name and I have never truly known what I would call myself. However, having a name bestowed upon me in the community would feel more natural. So for now, I will just stick with Daina. :) However, interestingly enough while I was pregnant with my youngest son my connection to the Norse gods became strong. I ended up naming him Arthor. Partly for that and also because my husband and I are both mostly of Scandinavian decent. In regards to baptism, that is something I have never been drawn to either. I was not myself so when I became a pagan I didn't see the need. However, my getting the runes tattooed on my opened up the gods coming to me, I believe. Because everything became stronger after that. (Including becoming pregnant with my second son.)
I love that you give coffee to the tree I thought I was the only one. I take a cup of coffee out to Homgar my landvaettir friend and home protector every Sunday morning and sit and just enjoy what that day has brought us.
Love this! Could we possibly explore some conversion rituals at the gathering? I haven’t done one yet, and seems like good timing.
Many conversations will happen at the gathering! I am sure this can be one of them!
I’ve had a pagan name for a long time, it’s not something I’d legally change but it’s also not something anyone else gets to call me besides other pagans. Not everyone has good relationships with their family so I can understand changing your name for personal reasons, just be ready for the consequences of your actions.
Hi Jacob. I am pleased with my name, it was given by my 6 yr old sister when I was born as she was learning about Vikings and Norway.
My name is an old Scottish name that dates back to pagan times so although I consider myself a Norse pagan I am not going to change it
Celtic Paganism and Germanic Paganism are closely related.
I have not been baptized but in a way it makes sense to be baptized into this faith.
It does? I thought baptism was to purge an individual of previous sin. Since we have no form of sin, and baptism can't restore your honor, it serves no purpose.
@@asherdevinit may serve no purpose to you maybe. I see it as more of a ritual to show you are devoted to this faith, I dont have the same definition of baptism as you do.
@@creeker230 Yeah sorry, my internet sucks over here and I commented while waiting for the video to load. I just finished it and was like "Shit, I should probably go apologize to that guy because I am way off"
@@asherdevin no worries. Skål 🍻
I work in sales and was upgrading a phone for a young lady who was heavily pregnant who told me she was in two minds whether to name her child Odin or Loki! The couple were clearly Norse Pagans and were pleasantly surprised when I showed them my Mjollnir amulet. I don't know about the US but in the UK Norse Paganism is becoming more & more visable.
UK Norse pagan here !
I'm sorry but I do have to judge the character of anyone naming their kid Loki. XD Sounds more like they watched some Marvel movies. Loki was never worshiped, why name a child after him?
My grandmother suggested I be named Matthew from the Apostle and my mother went with that, Gordon is the middle name of my dad and the first name of my paternal grandfather.
Personally I like my names, whether they be Judeo Christian or not. They don't take away from the fact that I am a Pagan or that I am the first Pagan (that I am aware of), in my family for centuries. I think if someone wants to take on a Germanic name they should be allowed, I have always been partial to Old English names myself.
If it helps someone connect with their path and or heritage, I say more power to em.
I think in the same way religions, from Wicca to Judaism, have specific religious names it’s followers choose, it’s perfectly appropriate for a Norse pagan to pick a spiritual name
I am from northern Germany and grew up around Ole's, Ragnar's, Lasse's, Hauke's and Fenya's, and ever since I was quite young I've lived the name Ragnar so much xD
I haven't been baptized either. I believe it was a good way to so my dedication to paganism. I've been happy finding this faith and hope more come into this faith feeling the same!
Having "pagan names", is not only a weird concept, but also seems to be just copying Judaism's Hebrew names. Norse pagans didnt choose their names due to paganism, they did it due to culture, just like today. And since its connected to culture, there wont be a name that belongs to paganism any more than it belongs to Christianity.
I'm a heathen, my first name is more connected to anglo-saxon roots, and my middle name roots in old norse. But I love both, because both originated from my great grandfather on both sides.
Hey loving the videos!! I believe the gods set me on a path to find them and to find you I have been thrown signs and I kinda just knew without actually consciously knowing myself I am from a Christian back ground I was baptised as a child and attended church but was never drawn to it so to say I never had an attachment To the Christian god but have felt a pull towards the gods and Norse paganism i am still very early on in my journey but your videos are certainly something that I think any young pagan beginning there journey should watch your videos educationally and recreationally as there so binge worthy 😂 but I was curious as to how you managed to retrace your family history to Scandinavia over hundreds of years I wonder if my ancestors were also from there and that is why I feel a pull towards it
If you have a last name ending in son then you most definitely have at least a little Scandinavian ancestry.
I was born with my father's last name and middle name came from his grandfather. Well, my father wasn't in my life and was abusive towards me as a toddler. So when I was 20 I felt this urge, this calling to change the middle and last name. I had grown up with stories about my great uncle Samuel, him serving in WW2 and raising my mother. I grew up with stories about my mother's grandfather and how he shouldered the burden of raising not only his children but his brother's children during the depression. So with my mother's permission I legally changed my name to Jason Samuel Harvey. Not particularly pagan....(well except for the name Jason)...but it has a deep meaning for me. And now I have passed those names onto my children.
This is a great video! I totally agree with you. I went with a pagan name that's broadly western that works with my language and current culture. Though my family does have scandinavian names, they certainly arent quite as fantastical as most pagan names 😉 I chose my own pagan name, but I "go by" my birth name. Our people have a great dichotomy between the ancient pagan urges and the more recent christianization, but the truth of our history lies in *both*. I do hope my family leads our lineage away from christianity.
Additionally, I love to observe how consistent we all are w symbolic tattoos and names. 💖
Thank you your videos thought me how to understand our gods and how to comprehend the faith
Also a interesting story, some stuff happened between the family and my mothers name got changed and she put it back to madsen, mads is her ancestor and not the other name, when she reversed it back to madsen when se was 18 she saw her grandpa and other ancestors that now guard her
My name is Aurora, but my last name is Erikson and I'm from Minnesota which has some of the largest populations of Norwegians in the US.
I'm kind of on an ancestral journey right now, trying to learn about my history 😄
Not sure what to call myself other than a Norse Pagan(originally a Wiccan) who happens to be a Native American with 3 Tribal cultures in my ancestry. That mixed with tons of German in my background. I chose the name " Talon" for myself over 30yrs ago when I worked as a Vet.Tech at a zoo working around predatory birds.
My first word was bird
My name is Jay(a type of bird)
I am from the Hummingbird Clan within my Tribe. I don't know why but I kept gravitating back to Talon after my 1st° initiation.
As for a Baptism no need if that person has gone thru initiation into a ritual group or into a Tradition itself. Unlike most Wiccans I offer my people only 1 initiation but teach materials and techniques taught at all 3 initials in most Covens. I mean you are either in or your not. So only one is really necessary
I'm new to paganism love your videos
Yo.. that bird in the beginning haha
My father was given the name Steve Glen ( last names omitted) by his Aunt and never felt loved or involved in the typical Christian pathways and nor did he have a great childhood by his adopted family. He officially changed his name, legally changed his name to Bjorn Baldur at the age of 55. It took him several years to feel connected to a name and commit to it. He officially did it and felt free and of his own self. It was very profound but in his case, I think it was very acceptable to change his name.
My dad always told me my first name came from a Viking known as "Eric the Red"
I understand the nickname for the folk. Because my family has nicknames based off personality and things we do and are good at, so I could get behind the baptism by naming.
I agree with everything you said after giving it some thought
In my opinion a sort of pagan baptism is the first time you hear the voice of gods, becouse like the Christian baptism you met for the first time the faith and the gods
Ironic!! ... But I'm glad that you found peace within yourself. I congrats you on your name.
I was searching for my North peg and name instead of my Christian name And I was granted my name by the God's they came to me in a vision I am so much happier now and feel more awake in life
So here is my own take on it... I have my family who has been learning with me and finding our selves and our path. My wife stared calling me veidr because my name is chase and was gonna be hunt at birth so she decided it fit because we are creating the begining of our family tree as norse pagans and since i got into my grandfather died i haven't stopped thinking about his stories i am proud of my German ancestors and wish to continue a long lost tradition
Honor comes from the names we were given. You are just a piece of a bigger story.
I find it funny that you say that we should not give us our new names.
My name Nuna was given me by my niece when she was two years old.
And i sticked with it since 😊
My name was passed to me...its of old Gealic from our scottish irish ancestors...SKÅL
It is an interesting idea, particularly the baptism as formal parting of ways. Here is a gamer's perspective. I was named David by my parents, a name I have never liked but it is what I am known as legally and in most circles of my life. Many years ago when online gaming replaced single player for me I had to choose a name to be known by in that community. At the time I worked at a pool company that was very much viking themed. I chose a name for myself, Knarr. It is an Old Norse term for a type of ship built for long sea voyages. It seemed fitting to me and I have been using it for nearly 20 years. I have friends that only call me Knarr. If ever I were to change my name it would be only to make what I already called my name to those in all the other circles. It is who I am. The point is we, like Odin, can wear different names for different audiences and they don't need to all be down on paper to make it real.
Personally I think the names are a way to involve yourself a bit more, to submerge, but I don't think I would change it permanently as of right now just because I chose the name Aðakán because it means fire, Aidan means fire, they both tie back to the Celts, but the Eth (ð) I don't thing (maybe I'm wrong) is not a valid character to be in an English or American name, so I don't think it's possible. (Of course you can change it to th instead of ð but still)
In turkey there's a name called atakan and it surprised me that you've chosed a similar name to it btw it's meaning is "the man who rules"
I know that the State of California doesn't allow anything not in the ASCII encoding to be registered as an official name because it would be too expensive to modify all the systems to handle it, so for example all surnames containing Ñ are officially spelled with an N instead, and that state has a bunch of people with names containing that character. Unless the state you live in does allow non-ASCII in names, you could just transcribe the ð to th.
In this day and age your allowed to change your name to whatever you want it to be, have the name you want period don't be to eager to change it though don't let your name define you doesn't make you any less of anything
I personally would not change my name because you should honour what you're given by your family. My surname is Scottish derived and I am proud of that heritage. If you have children then you can think of a more Scandinavian name to give them. I haven't, so our cat is called Loki! I can understand having a pagan name for ritual purposes though.
The last few days i was wondering and looking for a Pagan name for myself... i stumbled on this video and did some research about my name.
Since i was a young kid i new the meaning of my name... and it is a name mostly used in Germany. This is what i found on the web: Rolf is a Germanic boy name. The name Rolf is a shortened version of the name Rudolf. The name came and is common in Saxon regions. In the German-speaking countries, the name was popularized by Rudolf I of the Holy Roman Empire (1273-1291). The name comes from the Germanic language of the old Germanic Hrodulf, made up of the tribes Ru(d)-, Ro(d)- and -(w)olf. The name means something like 'glorious wolf'. Other variants of Rudolf include the shortened forms Roelf, Roelof, Ruud, Rudy, Rudi, Dolf, Frans Raoul, and the English Rudyard...
After reading this on the web and watching this video... No i don't need a Pagan name... My name is a more modern version of an old name used by the Germanic tribes...
Thanks for the informative video's! I started as an Atheist than decided to be a Pagan, tried Wicca, fun but not my thing, became a Pagan again, in the broadest of the word. Looking to the Celts, Norse, Hellenic, and of course Egyptian Gods and Godesses. I don't know why but in 2015 i was looking around in Asatru but not practicing. Watching your video's here on TH-cam i am learning!
Thanks again!
I was raised Christian, and identify as such, but my middle name (which, according to my mother, was chosen by my dad because it was the name of an actress he liked at the time) is the name of both a Celtic goddess and an Irish saint, and also has equivalents in the Nordic languages.
I also know a Christian couple where the dad has Scandinavian roots (not sure how far back), and they named their kids Freyja and Ragnar.
I have gone by Nomadis for years.
My family's surnames are still pretty close to our origins in their respective countries. My maiden name came from my great grandfather immigrating to America from Norway. When he came over he took his home village's name and used it as his surname. On my mother's side, my grandmother held the Cameron surname until she married - the name of our Scottish clan.
Personally i feel like our names are weaved in fate although I'm fairly new to norse paganism so I'm not going to judge anyone else. I feel like this is a situation like we have to use our intuition however if you feel the need to change your name and you cannot shake that feeling then something may be there to explore more. I've been into paganism itself for a few years and the cool thing about paganism is that there are no set rules carved in stone so that allows the gods to speak to you directly and if you get a feeling you can't shake then go and explore that feeling, whether it be a name, baptism, ritual, or any other aspect of norse paganism because it will strengthen your relationship with the gods
I personally think we as Americans should keep our names. I feel it wrong to keep taking culture away from others like we did when we colonized America. I also see it as disrespect to our parents that chose that name for us.
I completely understand if it's a nickname. But as a permanent name I'm going to say no
I think the whole point behind it is to used that name in pagan gathering or something like that
If I were to change my name at all it would be my last name, because for some reason when my 4th great grandfather came over to America he changed it to Anderson , instead of Andersson with two S.
Then after a few years he literally went back to 🇸🇪, had a baby then stayed in 🇸🇪 lmao. His son Olaf was the one who would come back to America in the later years lmao.
My brothers name was Torsten. Im a german (Bavarian), living in canada, headed south to the desert of arizona to live off grid, getting back to my grandparents roots of self reliance. I have always been proud of my germanic ancestry and ancestors. Lately been finding my self drawn more to the pagan religion. I can relate to it better then christianity especially with whats going on in modern society and this covid19, un agenda 2030, the great reset etc stuff going on.
My name is Isaac because of the bible story. It means laughter. He was called that because his mom laughed thinking she was too old to give birth. And my parents were a bit old when I was born. The reason for my name is not my favorite but I can't imagine being called anything else. Except I will answer to Ike. I had a proffesor that insisted on shortening Isaac to Ike
Ive taken my mothers name and not my fathers, my mother is danish and the sursame is madsen. I took it because im mads his son. He is my ancestor. My dutch/christian name is schouten but it felt right to take madsen, im proud to have pagan ancestors!
As a wildland/structural firefighter we are given nicknames by the crew/teams. I like the idea of the folk gifting a member with a name.
At the gathering we had over the weekend two people definitely earned themselves some nicknames! It was a great process
Just an idea, but I think those who serve and help the gods, or really earn it, be it helping around the hall, or maybe building it. Or just being a well known pegan with a good reputation as, let's say a hunter or leather-worker. I think that we should have cerimonies at the hall in which the folk will select their new name. And that would be similar to a baptism. Just being officiated as a pegan to the folk and to the gods by earning their name. Skål!
I personal like the idea of the clash of the christian names with names that we get from the folk but what could i do with there not being a strong Nordic pagan community in Oklahoma? But i can also agree with the fact that you shouldn't be able to name yourself a traditional Nordic name just out of thin air it should be earned and given to you and in a way you being given that name is a form of being baptized by the folk and culture.
I'm from Sweden, and I can tell you we don't have many of those beautiful Pagan names anymore, unfortunately. Now we go by slighly Nordic versions of Biblical and other Western names, mostly. Like Linnea, Adam, Emma, Julia, Sara, Andreas, Niklas, Daniel, etc, are some of the most common Swedish names of today. Even Jakob is super common here. It's just pronounced slightly differently. I'm sure you recognise some if not all of those names. The Nordic countries got Christianised back then too, although there is still some legacy carried on from our ancestors to our modern culture in other ways, our names didn't follow suit. But sure, there are a few Swedes with names like Sigrid and Herbert, etc, but it's very rare and they're generally old people.
Iceland is the only Nordic country that's still connected to the old language and names. Sweden, Norway and Denmark all modernised, and Finland was never really part of that culture to begin with.
I would not personally take offense to if an American took on one of the Ancient Nordic names, that used to be popular here over a thousand years ago. As long as it's to honour my culture, and not just because of an "oh it looked pretty but idc about what it means lol" kinda attitude, you know. That would feel disrespectful. So as long as you're not being disrespectful about your name choice, I'd be totally fine with it.
As for myself, I did actually try to take on a slightly more modern version of a Pagan name: Sigvard (derived from Sigurd, a hardly mentioned character, and is used as a name in Sweden even to this day, but has gone out of fashion, so is rare) which really speaks to me, but I noticed that being Sigvard made me start developing sort of a persona around how I wanted to be, as this cool viking guy, basically... instead of who I actually am. Which is that I'm a bearded, bald tranny with an affinity for certain viking culture. And that is sorta relevant, because although I'm happy with having medically "become" a man, as I was born female... I eventually decided to take back the name my parents gave me at birth, which is: Sara.
Even though I'm so unlikely to connect to it, it's my name. I feel like it's MY name. And to me that is a far better way to honour my family and where I came from, than taking on an old Norse name. It's not just honouring my biological sex (although I still embrace my physical/medical transition as well. I mean, I'm sure there were a few women who lived as men back then too, or at least I know that female warriors were a thing, albeit rare.) But also accepting that it's not year 850 anymore, and it would be kinda strange to pretend that it is.
The modern vikings watch youtube, wear jeans, work at offices and have names like Sara and Jakob. Whether they're American or Scandinavian. That's just kinda happened. So I don't think it should be necessary to change your name as a Norse Pagan, but by all means, do so if you want to.
Well said
I agree with you, I just want to add something about Swedish names - actually far more are Germanic/Nordic than we think, but they have changed from, like in my case, Fríða, to Frida. My middle name, Ulrica/Ulrika, isn't that rare either.
Going to the page "Nordiska namn" at "kulturbilder" (can't type url here), I quickly find the following that are pretty common still today:
Alva, Astrid, Britt/Britta, Ellen, Erika, Gudrun, Gun, Gunilla, Inger, Ingrid, Linda, Solveig, Ulla, Arvid, Birger (I actually didn't think it was that common, but there are 15k Birger in Sweden), Björn, Börje, Erik, Folke, Gunnar, Harald, Håkan, Ingemar, Ivar, Kjell, Leif, Sten, Stig, Sture, Sven, Tage, Ulf, Yngve, Åke.
A lot of these are only really seen in the older generation (
I come from a atheist/heavy Christian family and most of my life has been a journey and still is and I have always in a way detoured by the Christian faith and most of my father's family are catholic and their churches always are asking for something from the worshiper like donation back to my point you and Einar selvic to Discover this path and wherever it takes me
I have tried out a lot of names. They come to me and I use them for a while until another one wants me to try it on.
I’ve personally been on the searching for a more Nordic nickname. And I want to be able to express my belief with a form or “baptism” but I believe oath rings or some ritual could kinda be that form of “baptism” I am looking for although I do not know much about either of them but I am seeking that knowledge.
I’d like to know what everyone else thinks on the subject as well
If you're lucky enough to know a lot about your family, you can also take a family name of non-Biblical origins. Nobody's going to tell me I can't name myself after my own family member. That said, I won't be changing my name, but I've considered adding to it. I enjoy your idea about folk-granted names a great deal, and I agree with your take on it.
re: baptism, it reminded me: there are occult traditions for ritually renouncing or your Christian baptism, but they rely on a sort of undoing of the rite using Christian forms, which many don't want to participate in. You also need to either believe in the devil, or believe in a pagan god that had been demonized by Christian practice to the point where early medieval devotees would indeed identify that they worshiped the devil. The rite involves interaction with said figure. I'm aware of this being a thing with some old gods in Britain, but not elsewhere. The occult tradition I'm aware of for undoing a baptism is based heavily British traditions and gods of witchcraft. The whole rite doesn't seem to work with norse paganism, in my opinion.
(For those curious about it, look for the ritual in British Traditional Witchcraft; it involves stealing the Host, walking backwards around a church three times at midnight, and feeding the Host to the form of the devil that appears to you, usually a toad or a dog. Again, this rite is aimed specifically for interaction with certain gods of magic, witchcraft, and nature, and relies entirely on Christian forms and paradigms, so most pagans will probably not find it appropriate. I've brought it up here solely as a point of conversation and interest, and to show that there do exist some traditional rituals for renouncing Christian baptism.)
My name is chase after the name hunter which i was supposed to be named.. And my wife has been calling me veidr for a few months now and really has grown on me
Iceland is still like this. It’s called a patronymic naming system. I think it’s pretty cool. HAIL ODIN!!! #UntilTheHallSkal.
One of the commenters compared the taking of a Nordic name to the taking of a magical name in Wicca. I'm not sure I agree with that. I would say that the taking on of a Nordic name would be more aptly compared to when a person chooses a middle name at their confirmation ceremony in Catholicism. The will choose the name of a saint, or a family member, or some historic personage that has some meaning to them. When I ran a kindred back in the 90's (I've been walking the Nordic path for about 30 years) and part of the ceremony of dedication for becoming a full member was the OPTION of taking on a Nordic name. Some already had one before they joined because they have been involved in Asatru for some time before Joining the Kindred, others took on after joining us and some didn't see the need and so didn't take one at all. For me, for us it really came down to whether or not we felt that taking on such a name made on feel more connected to the Gods. For me, it did, for others they felt their connection was strong enough without it. I don't personally know of anyone that has legally changed their name to their chosen Nordic, although I do not doubt that there are some that have. I even flirted with the idea myself for a time, but ultimately decided against it, despite my distasted for my first name (which is why I use my middle name, Alex). Ultimately, it really does come down to a personal preference and I don't know that whether a person should, or should not take on such a name as part of their religious life is a call that anyone can, or should make for another. We can explain to them why we, as individuals have, or have not done that, but the decision really is one that each of us has to make for themselves. The name I took, Kveldulf, I feel is an expression of a part of myself that the name my parents gave me does not reflect, and in some ways my given name is almost antithetical to who and what I understand myself to be. (For the record my given first name is Tracy so you can understand why I have such a distaste for it and why use my middle name as much as possible).
Basically, it's what ever the individual is more comfortable with and what makes them feel more connected to the gods.
Names are just that.. A man/woman are defined by actions not words.. Be proud of what we have earned.. The gods just point us in the right direction and it's up to us to make it magical. Skal!
To each is own, I suppose.
I think if we take a new name, it should be given to us during some sort of oath taking and not just picked out from a norse dictionary or something.
I agree that a name should be given by the community. That name should be chosen for you for something you’ve done or known for. Baptisms on the other hand I don’t think is needed. If a ritual is needed to accept someone into the community then maybe present that person with an arm ring, which I’m pretty sure were used to symbolize coming of age and being welcomed by the folk
I think a Tattoo is a great indoctrination into this faith. It's a show of strength and commitment. You gave me an idea, I think I might get the Raido rune tattoo to show my journey has begun.
So, my significant other is Norse Pagan and I am Jewish. It is important that my children are raised knowing about both my beliefs and my significant others as well. I want to maybe talk to you all who are Pagan about how you feel with a "mixed faith" name a (Jewish first name and Norse middle name for example) as their line goes back being Jewish for hundreds of years on my side and is traceable back similarly on my significant others side from what I understand. I just want to be as respectful of BOTH cultures and histories as possible. Any thoughts? or people who you think would be open to talking to me and explaining things to me?
I just had a son 14 months ago we named him wolfgang and we get a bit shit for it some time but most thinks is really cool
Viking culture held very closely to their ancestors and it was very central to them. So I think if we choose names because of our ancestors. The gods will forgive us. My name is Sean. Which is a Gaelic word for gift from god/the gods. My great grandma came from Ireland. Before that Norway Denmark area
I chose a name with the same root meaning. Robert means famed so I chose Roald which means fame
can you send me a link or directions on how to read n then carve on Blue Slate I'd like to use them in my garden
Given names from other people are fun toi
I think lothbrok is leather pants. I could be wrong
My ancestors came from one of Scandinavian countries. My last name means son of kone
I dont know if anyone will read this but if am being honest i agree with what you are saying im still new to this and im still trying to fined my footing so hears hoping i get a cool nickname, but on a series note i just cant wait to meet people who are on the same path and well lets see where it gos and what we as the folk take it.
also if anyone knows where i can get good reading for this stuff in aoudo book form as im dislexic would be a grat help thanks
"It should be given to you by your fellow heathen community"
*cries in lonely heathen*
When it come to baptism i think there is a need to renounce it that seems like nonsense. But there is also no need have a new one that is in the name of goal or a pantheon of deities or just the ones you feel closest to. These are just personal choices people can make.
Im only just begining my journey, so my opinion may bear little weight. I, personally, do want a pagan name. My 'real name' sounds foreign to me, it has for well over a decade. I'm named for my grandfather, someone i never connected to. From a culture not mine. I'm adopted you see, and i've known since i was 4. I knew the cultures i was being raised in were not mine, and maybe as a side effect of my autism, i never did connect to them, i never felt apart. I never felt right.
Now, after tracing my DNA, and finding out who my ancestors were, i want to connect, to any place, to someplace, and my connection is in that distant past. I want to feel, for the first time, like i have a people. I want a name, that i feel, i own, that is me, at this moment.
I don't think we should have a baptism but an unbaptism would be good. Because to me, baptism is a ceremony, a ritual that isn't that far away from witchcraft in general and I think an unbaptism to release it would be good.
I use two names one in my craft and one in the world. My worldy name is rin however if im giving an offering to the nature spirits or working on meditation/practicing seidr i prefer the name fridda.. Its also more safer using a spiritual name so no negitive entities could connect to your worldy name.. So norse pagans who dont know me well will call me fridda however once we get close and become friends ill tell them my actual name thats rin
My name isn’t Christian-affiliated and I’m a pretty new pagan so I don’t really have any interest in changing my name, legally or otherwise, right now. Maybe that’ll change as I progress through this journey.
My first name is sven but i always used my second name and because of this video i realised that my first name is nordic
I think that the folk should choose your pagan name, and this name being a nickname.
You covered many aspects. 🎉really good points to think about.
I am becoming a norse pagan a few months ago form an atheist path. and i personally think we don't need a new name when we take a different path into or life our name carrying our legacy its can help to release you of your of your path before butt i feel not needed form my previous path! I can understand that people with an other background will choice for a pagan name.
wasn't a way of "baptism" in the Norse kinda like the youth or new comers receiving their arm bands? I know it was to show loyalty to the Jarl but isn't it also kinda like showing loyalty to the Gods because they are technically the ones who chose the Jarls?
might just be over thinking it
I am an AA guy that has been a seeker for years. I was called be odin while in meditation, and have been following the Aesir gods' advice for improving my health and expanding my knowledge(by reading the poetic edda )on this religion. There are a lot of things i must learn, but i am determined to seek wisdom. Am i welcome? regardless, i will continue to seek the old ways with odin's blessing. But im curious of what you guys think.
im named like my father, Hærvarðr, but the German government changed it to Herwarth, because ,æ and ð are symbols and its not allowed in a passport. I feel restrained in my heritage.
If Christians baptised the pagans back them, how fitting for us to re-baptise ourself back to paganism.
I think it would be a great modern Norse way of taking our faith back, and funny to read back on in history of how we brought back Norse paganism & now have a form of blot/ritual for new people who are new