34 of 34 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars
The Basics, plain and simple, Mar 5 2004
By Rachel Watkins "Rachel Watkins" - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Living Asatru (Paperback)
Greg Shetler's "Living Asatru" is a concise introduction to Asatru. Begining with an explination of what Asatru is not by debunking some common enough misconceptions, Shetler then goes on to give explination of what Asatru actually is; starting with where we are today in reconstructing a religion which we know mostly from archeology and mythology. He stresses the importance of Oaths, Honor, and Ethics through the section on 'Lessons from the Lore' and even includes modern day life hypothetical examples of application of ethics and oaths.
A basic introduction to the Aesir and Vanir, the holy tides of the year, the runes and a few cerimonies follow. While not meant as a thorough resource, it does fill it's intended niche quite well as a basic handbook of Asatru, perfect for the beginner, and a book any kindred would do well to have on hand as a basic introduction to Asatru for new seekers.
22 of 22 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
A great overview, Feb 20 2005
By Ren - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Living Asatru (Paperback)
This little book is very direct and to the point. It goes over alot of main topics which are very essential to Asatru: what Asatru is and is not, the Nine Noble Virtues, ethics, Orlog, Frith, oaths, a basic introduction to the Gods and Goddesses, the Blots, ceremonies, and even a little bit about the runes and different types of magic. He gives very good modern day examples, focusing less on abstract concepts and more on how one can apply them and really "live" Asatru, as the title says.
I didn't agree with some of what he had to say, but he clearly stated that the book contains his own interpretations and opinions. The author encourages the reader to learn more about Asatru through different sources.
That said, I'd recommend this book to anyone. It's a great introduction to Asatru and it's well worth a read.
22 of 23 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great Basic Review of Asatru, April 26 2004
By A Customer - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Living Asatru (Paperback)
This book, although it does not delve very deeply into the religion, does give a good overview of the belief system of Asatru. The author claims only to give the reader ideas for their own research. A great jumping off point for the beginner. Also a wonderful resource for those who are exploring the many religions out there.
I gave this book to my family when they were interested in what I believed. It is a great resource for them to understand my religion, even though they are not interested in becoming Asatru themselves. It makes a great resource for explaing Heathenism when you get tongue-tied and don't know where to begin answering people's questions.