Germanic paganism

Germanic paganism refers to the ancient spiritual beliefs and practices of the Germanic peoples before Christianity became dominant. It centered on a pantheon of gods like Odin, Thor, and Freyja, who governed aspects of nature, war, and fertility. Rituals often involved sacrifices, ceremonies, and honoring natural features such as trees and rivers. These beliefs emphasized heroism, family loyalty, and a sense of fate or destiny. Germanic paganism was orally transmitted, evolving over centuries across regions like Scandinavia, Germany, and the British Isles. It significantly influenced later folklore, mythology, and cultural identity in these areas.