Why I Honor Frey
Frey is not honored as much as some other gods in modern practice. This is understandable, as Odin and Thor are superstars of the Eddas, and their stories are well known. Frey has far less coverage, yet historically, He was honored far more than today. One one goes beyond the amount of primary sources describing the gods, and looks at the spheres of influence of the gods, it becomes apparent that Frey is more relevant. People value having enough to eat, living comfortably, and having peaceful relations with others. Frey is directly involved in all of these, and the involvement goes deeper in interesting ways.
Frey is known for prosperity, although the forms of that today are a bit different than in the past. The basis of survival was agriculture, which in turn depended on good weather. These things are still important, as we all need to eat, but there was more. Various goods come from animal and plant sources, so a good year usually brought additional products. Today wealth is measured with money, but the reason money is valued is because of all the things it can get. And some things haven't changed over time--we wish to eat well, live in comfortable places, have items of quality, and so on. Survival and prosperity still depend on good weather and peaceful settings, as disruptions of either of these affect our quality of life. The kind of peaceful abundance that Frey represents makes everyone's lives better, and it's worth remembering Him when enjoying these things.
There are many male gods, and multiple ways to look at masculinity. Yet among these, Frey is distinctive in representing male sensuality, as He's the one who is depicted phallicly. I find that in this modern age, there aren't that many healthy models of masculinity. Sure, there are tough guys, but many of them are narrow in focus and lack empathy. There are sensitive guys, but many of them aren't exactly the image of strength and protection. There are intelligent guys, but many of them aren't "men's men". And many gods don't seem to be well-rounded. To me, Frey embodies the idea of one who is healthy, sexual, and fertile (seen by phallic imagery), one who is a formidable warrior (and had the best sword in the Nine Worlds), yet also one who bestows peace and pleasure on others, as well as prosperity. He represents what could be considered a complete male in a very positive way.
Frey's skill as a warrior is something that is rather understated in the lore. He's a swordsman, yet He can also kill with by other means, such as with an antler and bare-handed. Normally, one would think that a mighty warrior in the old stories would be remembered for various killing sprees, either against many foes, strong foes, or both. For one to be that strong and capable, yet judicious and disciplined enough to use that power only when necessary, gives a picture of an almost hidden protector, rather than yet another conquerer. Also, during the Dark Ages, many people learned to use weapons, such as an axe or spear, but learning the more sophisticated sword was the mark of a warrior. And swords were (and still are) relatively expensive, so one would usually not go to the trouble and expense of getting one unless one knew how to use it well. Looking at Frey's prowess and possessions, it becomes apparent that He is one who trains well in martial arts, both in breadth and depth, but doesn't feel the need to be flashy or dramatic about it. If only more people followed Frey's example as a warrior, many of today's peacekeepers would have a better reputation.
One area where Frey is not as well known is with relationships. He is known for bringing peace, but there is more. His marriage to Gerda is a symbol of domestic stability. He valued Her enough to make very valuable bridal offerings. And there is a lack of promiscuity, despite being known for his virility. This gives the image of a dedicated husband, one who takes good care of His wife and household. Indeed, He was invoked at weddings. This is notable, as an emphasis on male sexuality alone would not make for stable relationships. It's also in sharp contrast to His sister, Freya, who is known for sexual activity with many partners. There are many gods known for strength and prowess, but not many known for healthy masculinity in a committed relationship. Frey can be looked to for guidance in this area, as proper attention to it can make for a happier home.
Frey is known for many things. Peace, prosperity, abundance, protection, strength, sensuality, stability, and other things are within His influence. We all want these things, and it's a good idea to give honor to the God that can help provide them. The foundations of healthy and happy living can help not only with our own lives, but also can help spread good cheer among others. Maintaining peace in the household helps everyone feel better. Healthy sexuality enlivens relationships. Sharing food and drink with companions helps friendships grow. Looking forward to the best while being prepared for the worst, both with resources and protection, ensures both optimism and recovery from problems.
Frey is a god that adds to the quality of life, and that is why I honor Him.
picture by Nornoriel
Frey is known for prosperity, although the forms of that today are a bit different than in the past. The basis of survival was agriculture, which in turn depended on good weather. These things are still important, as we all need to eat, but there was more. Various goods come from animal and plant sources, so a good year usually brought additional products. Today wealth is measured with money, but the reason money is valued is because of all the things it can get. And some things haven't changed over time--we wish to eat well, live in comfortable places, have items of quality, and so on. Survival and prosperity still depend on good weather and peaceful settings, as disruptions of either of these affect our quality of life. The kind of peaceful abundance that Frey represents makes everyone's lives better, and it's worth remembering Him when enjoying these things.
There are many male gods, and multiple ways to look at masculinity. Yet among these, Frey is distinctive in representing male sensuality, as He's the one who is depicted phallicly. I find that in this modern age, there aren't that many healthy models of masculinity. Sure, there are tough guys, but many of them are narrow in focus and lack empathy. There are sensitive guys, but many of them aren't exactly the image of strength and protection. There are intelligent guys, but many of them aren't "men's men". And many gods don't seem to be well-rounded. To me, Frey embodies the idea of one who is healthy, sexual, and fertile (seen by phallic imagery), one who is a formidable warrior (and had the best sword in the Nine Worlds), yet also one who bestows peace and pleasure on others, as well as prosperity. He represents what could be considered a complete male in a very positive way.
Frey's skill as a warrior is something that is rather understated in the lore. He's a swordsman, yet He can also kill with by other means, such as with an antler and bare-handed. Normally, one would think that a mighty warrior in the old stories would be remembered for various killing sprees, either against many foes, strong foes, or both. For one to be that strong and capable, yet judicious and disciplined enough to use that power only when necessary, gives a picture of an almost hidden protector, rather than yet another conquerer. Also, during the Dark Ages, many people learned to use weapons, such as an axe or spear, but learning the more sophisticated sword was the mark of a warrior. And swords were (and still are) relatively expensive, so one would usually not go to the trouble and expense of getting one unless one knew how to use it well. Looking at Frey's prowess and possessions, it becomes apparent that He is one who trains well in martial arts, both in breadth and depth, but doesn't feel the need to be flashy or dramatic about it. If only more people followed Frey's example as a warrior, many of today's peacekeepers would have a better reputation.
One area where Frey is not as well known is with relationships. He is known for bringing peace, but there is more. His marriage to Gerda is a symbol of domestic stability. He valued Her enough to make very valuable bridal offerings. And there is a lack of promiscuity, despite being known for his virility. This gives the image of a dedicated husband, one who takes good care of His wife and household. Indeed, He was invoked at weddings. This is notable, as an emphasis on male sexuality alone would not make for stable relationships. It's also in sharp contrast to His sister, Freya, who is known for sexual activity with many partners. There are many gods known for strength and prowess, but not many known for healthy masculinity in a committed relationship. Frey can be looked to for guidance in this area, as proper attention to it can make for a happier home.
Frey is known for many things. Peace, prosperity, abundance, protection, strength, sensuality, stability, and other things are within His influence. We all want these things, and it's a good idea to give honor to the God that can help provide them. The foundations of healthy and happy living can help not only with our own lives, but also can help spread good cheer among others. Maintaining peace in the household helps everyone feel better. Healthy sexuality enlivens relationships. Sharing food and drink with companions helps friendships grow. Looking forward to the best while being prepared for the worst, both with resources and protection, ensures both optimism and recovery from problems.
Frey is a god that adds to the quality of life, and that is why I honor Him.
picture by Nornoriel