(Image source: https://www.rationalheathen.com/2020/02/26/the-elder-futhark-wunjo/)

Today, we ponder the rune Wunjo, which means "Joy." Joy is an important aspect of life as it motivates and rejuvenates us. As such, Wunjo both reminds us to enjoy our successes and to always keep in mind what we are striving for and why.

The joy of Wunjo is often associated with social or familial success. Much Norse lore speaks of success and joy in terms of having a full home full of love and support for one another. However, such love and success may be found in a broader context, even in online communities. Wherever you find the comfort and support of others, there is Wunjo.

#runes #wunjo #joy #RunicMusings #PaganMusings

I'm just theologically opinionated. Don't let that stop you from disagreeing with me. (Exploring differing views respectfully can be awesome!) But since I'm the one writing this toot, here's an opinion of mine! 🤣

From what I've read, I feel like the Pagan understanding of reincarnation has changed over time and it kind of makes me sad.

Today, a lot of Pagans seem to think of reincarnation as a cycle of spiritual progression and learning. Even something to be transcended eventually.

And I just wonder what happened to the idea that life is so important that we WANT to keep going round and round. What happened to the idea that a necessary component of the fulfillment of love is to being reborn, remembering, and loving again? I'm far more interested in that than becoming an "advanced soul."

Now I will see reincarnation as being about progression in one sense. But to me, it's about the progression of the world. Not only does the thought of being reborn mean I get to celebrate life, but that I get to make more contributions to that work I love: the work of making this world a better place. To bring more love into the world. To work towards making societies more just. To clean up whatever messes I might have contributed to this time around.

#PaganTheology #PaganMusings #reincarnation #paganism

(Image source: https://www.amazon.com/Ansuz-Personal-Journal-Futhark-Background/dp/B09HLKMJKK)

As today is Wednesday, consider the rune Ansuz. It's name means "the Ase" or "the god," commonly accepted as meaning the god Odin specifically. The rune draws on images of Odin as the Allfather and a force to bring order. The Aesir in general are seen as agents of order, as opposed to the jotun or giants, who are more primal and chaotic.

Yet, it is important to remember that too much order can be a problem as well. Life requires creativity and freedom and even a modicum of chaos. This is why the myths and lore speak of marriages between various Ases and members of etinkind.

If left unchecked, order becomes crystallization, which chokes the life out of everything. So when pondering the order implied by the rune Ansuz, think instead of a loose order that allows for flexibility and freedom.

#runes #PaganMusings #RunicMusings #Odin #NorseMythology #NorseCosmology