The Wise Head and the Hostage Oath - An Alfablót Story
Long ago, the Æsir and the Vanir waged war — not with mere skirmishes, but with the fury of Gods. Walls fell, fields burned, and even the sky seemed to bruise from the clash of their might.
Eventually it became clear neither side could claim victory. War wearied even the war-loving. So they made peace in the way of ancient kings; they traded hostages.
From the Æsir, went Hœnir, broad-shouldered and comely, swift of stride. With him went Mímir, the wise, whose thoughts ran deep as roots beneath the World Tree. To the Vanir, it seemed a fair trade — one leader, one counselor.
For a time, peace held. The Vanir made Hœnir a chieftain, trusting his decisions. But Hœnir, though strong and handsome, had little wit without Mímir’s counsel. Whenever a choice weighed heavy, he said only: "Let another decide — Mímir knows best."
The Vanir saw this and grew wroth. They felt cheated. So they took Mímir and struck off his head, sending it back to the Æsir with bitter words.
Odin, High One, took the head into his keeping. But he would not lay it to rest. Instead, he worked seiðr and sang galdr over it, anointing it with herbs and speaking secret runes. Thus Mímir’s head spoke again, and its counsel poured into Odin’s ear, guiding his steps in all the ages to come.
So it is that wisdom can outlast flesh, that the voice of the dead may still serve the living. Odin claimed that counsel for himself — not for war alone, but for the shaping of the future, as a farmer saves the best seed from one harvest to plant in the next.
On this night, we pour the ale and call to the Alfar — the spirits of our fathers, forefathers, and their fathers before them.
We say:
“Hail Fathers and Grandfathers,
Hæl and well ancestors.
You and your wisdom are welcome
At our tables and in our hall.”
The End.
