Nov 02 2009
A History of Mjollnir
For a number of years, we have had stories of people with superhuman powers battling for control in one way of another. We have Superman, Spiderman, Batman, Wonder Woman and many more. These are stories most of us a familiar with us from comic books and movies.
Thousands of years ago, ancient people had the same thing. They told stories of gods with superhuman powers fighting monsters and traveling to far away lands. Each culture had it’s particular gods and stories to tell about them. In the far north in ancient Scandanavia tales were told of Thor and his hammer, Mjollnir.
Thor’s hammer is said to have the power to level mountains. If thrown it would return to Thor’s hand. To wield Mjollnir, special gauntlets had to be worn and a belt that would increase the power of the hammer. There are many stories about how the hammer was forged and not everyone agrees which is the most accurate.
Today, the stories are told in comic books and soon to be in the movies. Thor and Mjollnir have endured the centuries and is still today a major icon. Scandanavian people still pray to Thor just as some people pray to a saint. The symbol of Mjollnir is found in many places all over Scandanavia, in towns and on the crest of many families of Nordic descent.
Germanic Neopagans are fond of wearing pendants depicting Mjollnir as a sign of their faith. There has been some controversy in the United States as to it’s religious undertones since it resembles an upside down cross. These are usually the rantings of overzealous Christians who have little or no understanding of cultures outside their small town.
Mystical Charm hopes you have a wonderful Autumn season and looks forward to your comments and insights.
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