Questions about Æsir

Short answers, pulled from the story.

What is the origin of the term Aesir in Germanic paganism?

The modern English term Aesir derives from the plural Old Norse word aesir with a singular form ass. Scholars trace the ultimate origin to the Proto-Indo-European root h2ems-u- which links the term to words for god or lord.

Who were the main figures involved in the Aesir-Vanir war according to Snorri Sturluson?

Hoenir and Mimir went to the Vanir while Njordr, Freyr, and Kvasir came to the Aesir during the conflict. Skaldskaparmal adds that the groups mixed spit in a vat to create Kvasir after exchanging hostages.

Which deities are listed as Aesir in Snorri Sturlusons Prose Edda Gylfaginning?

Gylfaginning names Odin, Thor, Njordr, Freyr, Tyr, Heimdallr, Bragi, Vidarr, Vali, Ullr, Forseti, and Loki as male Aesir. It lists female Aesir including Frigg, Saga, Eir, Gefjon, Fulla, Freyja, Sjon, Lofn, Var, Vor, Syn, Hlin, Snotra, Gna, Sol, Bil, Skadi, Sigyn, Hnoss, Gerdr, Jord, Iduin, Ilmr, Njorun, Nanna, Rindr, Thrudr, and Ran.

What does the 9th century Engstad whalebone pin reveal about local Aesir worship?

The 9th century Engstad whalebone pin contains a runic inscription referencing an yard-ass which might refer to a local god of a specific farmstead. Barar saga describes Bardr Snafellsass as an ass worshipped in the region who received worship from those living around Snaefell.

When was Asatru officially recognized by governments in Northern Europe?

By 2007, governments of Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden officially recognized Asatru as a religious movement. Asatru UK registered as a community interest company for religious activities in the United Kingdom after this recognition period.