Woden As Witchfather
You may have already met him: a tall figure in dark clothing, his face shadowed by the brim of his hat and his cloak like raven feathers, offering sorcerous secrets in exchange for service. A gift for a gift—you know, that old bargain. Maybe he appeared differently to you (no doubt still offering some kind of bargain all the same)? But however you first met him, if you are a magically inclined Heathen or Witch, Vitki or other kind of sorcerer, this class is for you.
In Woden As Witchfather, I explore a god of many names in his capacity as teacher and mentor of magic, focusing on three main areas of magical practice within his domain: the magic of making, the magic of charming, and the magic of navigating the liminal. Over the centuries, the Old Man has gone from god to Devil to god again (though he still continues in the minds of many as Old Nick). He’s presided over thrones and crossroads, bands of warriors and a seer’s high seat. He’s a god of hanged men and gallows, of healing, mounds, fertility, and charms. At times a queer god, he can be as sexually transgressive as any ælf. He’s a god of poets, inspiration, and word-craft, ever a reminder that the Devil is indeed in the details. A mad god. A possessed god. A path-making teacher of Witches.
This class combines lore and practice, experience and gnosis. The techniques taught within this class were gifted by the Old Man and transferable to a wide range of magical operations, albeit presented in a risk-reduced form. Those who wish to give them a try should have the following ready before hitting "play" on the recording.
- Pen and paper (preferably a notepad and something slightly thicker like an index card), or a suitable object with the rune ansuz painted/burned/engraved on it
- A candle and lighter/matches
- Water or anointing/blessing oil of your choice
What You Get When You Purchase This Class:
- Audio and video recordings of the class (2-3 hours long)
- Instructions for the Magic of Making
- "Galdralag á la Cat"
- A full bibliography