Verein für germanisches Heidentum
German neopagan organisation / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Dear Wikiwand AI, let's keep it short by simply answering these key questions:
Can you list the top facts and stats about Verein für germanisches Heidentum?
Summarize this article for a 10 year old
The Verein für germanisches Heidentum (lit. 'Association for Germanic paganism'), abbreviated VfGH, is a Germanic neopagan organisation in Germany. It began in 1994 as the German chapter of the British Odinic Rite and was called the Odinic Rite Deutschland. It became independent in 2004 and changed its name in 2006. Though it has never had many members, it is nonetheless influential among German neopagans. Prominent people within the organisation have included Bernd Hicker, who was its first leader, and Fritz Steinbock, who has managed and influenced its religious practice.
Abbreviation | VfGH |
---|---|
Formation | 1994; 30 years ago (1994) |
Type | Religious organisation |
Purpose | Germanic neopaganism |
Location |
|
Website | www |
Formerly called | Odinic Rite Deutschland |
The VfGH practices Germanic paganism conceived as a polytheistic religion connected to the region of Central and Northern Europe. By tying the practice to a geographic location, it rejects both völkisch religiosity and universalist approaches. Central to the practice are reinvented blóts—ceremonies that may involve invocations of gods, drinking and sacrificial gifts—which are held by local groups. Members are allowed to have varying beliefs and priestly functions are limited to performing rituals. The organisation explicitly abstains from politics but allows members who are politically engaged elsewhere, which has led to some controversy over individual members with far-right views.