Odinic Rite

What it is

The Odinic Rite operates as a religious body dedicated to Germanic polytheism. It centers on the worship of Odin and other figures from Norse mythology. The group defines itself as a folkish movement, meaning it views its faith as tied to specific ethnic heritage. Practitioners hold that this tradition belongs exclusively to people of Northern European descent. They engage in rituals and study folklore to maintain their cultural identity.

Where it comes from

The organization began in 1973 in England under the name Committee for the Restoration of the Odinic Rite. Founders John Gibbs-Bailey and John Yeowell established the group to promote Odinist beliefs. In 1980, they changed the name to the Odinic Rite as interest grew. Earlier influences included Australian fascist Alexander Rud Mills, who adapted Ariosophy in the 1930s. Mills viewed Odinism as a native religion for the British race, distinct from Christianity.

How it is done

Members follow the Nine Noble Virtues and the Nine Charges as ethical guides. These codes emphasize courage, truth, honor, and self-reliance. Leadership decisions are made by the Court of Gothar. Initiates may be professed by existing members. The group holds gatherings to practice their faith and discuss racial preservation. They view these activities as essential for maintaining their spiritual and biological integrity.

Tools and materials

Runes serve as key symbols within the Odinic Rite. Members chant rune names during ceremonies. The Nine Noble Virtues provide a moral framework for daily life. The group uses these tools to reinforce their connection to ancestral traditions. Symbols of Norse mythology help practitioners identify with their perceived heritage.

What it is for

The primary goal is the preservation and promotion of the European race. Members believe that nationality is biological rather than geographical. They seek to prevent what they see as the erosion of racial identity. The group discourages mixed-race relationships to maintain purity. They view their faith as a vehicle for the evolution of their people.

Who does it

Membership is restricted to polytheistic individuals of European ancestry. The group actively discourages non-European participation. Leadership roles are held by figures like Jeffrey Holley, known as Heimgest. He was elected Director of the Court of Gothar in 1989. Previous leaders included John Yeowell and John Gibbs-Bailey. The group claims to be religious but is often analyzed as political.

Peoples and places

The Odinic Rite started in the United Kingdom. It expanded to Germany, France, and North America in the 1990s. The German branch, Odinic Rite Deutschland, formed in 1994. It later became independent and changed its name to Verein für germanisches Heidentum in 2006. The French and American branches also developed separate structures. Each branch adapts the core ideology to local contexts while maintaining racial restrictions.

What people believe

The Odinic Rite believes Odinism is the natural religion of Northern Europeans. They view the Norse gods as symbols of divine archetypes. Odin represents a father figure, while others like Thor have minor roles. The group asserts that racial barriers should not be broken. They consider Christianity unnatural because it encourages mixing races. Their theology emphasizes the superiority of their own racial traditions.

When it is done

The group focuses on daily adherence to the Nine Noble Virtues. Rituals may occur at significant sites like the White Horse Stone in Kent. Members gather to profess their faith and elect leaders. These events mark important transitions within the organization.

How scholars and sceptics see it

Researchers classify the Odinic Rite as an extreme-right group due to its racial nationalism. Scholars note that its worldview aligns with far-right ideologies. The group denies being political, claiming to be purely religious. Analysts point out the contradiction between their stated goals and their exclusionary practices. Studies highlight the influence of early Ariosophists on modern folkish Heathenry.

Compare and confuse

The Odinic Rite is part of the broader Heathen movement. It differs from universalist Asatru groups by its racial focus. Other folkish organizations share similar ideologies. The term Odinism was used by Thomas Carlyle in 1841 but was revived by fascists in the 1930s. Modern practitioners distinguish themselves from earlier interpretations.

Questions people ask about Odinic Rite

Good reading and sources

• Odinic Rite on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data