Practical Magic in the Northern Tradition

In Practical Magic in the Northern Tradition, Nigel Pennick gives us an indepth introduction to the beliefs and spiritual techniques indigenous to the Northern People. The Northern Tradition encompasses the Germanic, Norse, Celtic and Baltic Lands, ranging from Austria and Bohemia, through Switzerland, Germany, and Northern France, and including Ireland, Britain, Iceland, Scandinavia, and the Baltic Countries, Northern Poland and Western Russia. We begin by looking at the perceptions of space, time and direction. Nigel Pennick explains the solar year and the lunar cycles, and then the day and its tides. Next we learn the Natural Lore of the Northern Tradition. Crystals, Metals and Stones. Lore of the Living World ~ Bird Lore, the Raven, Robin and Crow. The Lore of Trees ~ Alder, Apple, Ash, Oak and Thorn, Mistletoe, Rowan, Willow and Yew. Nigel Pennick then goes on to explain the Mystic Mandrake, the Earth Spirits, Ley Lines, Fairy Paths and Holy Ground. The Magic of the North is the third section of this book. Here we learn of Seidr and techniques of meditation. We also learn of magic in the Northern Martial Arts tradition... the Beserkers, the Ulfhednar, and the Svinfylking. This martial arts tradition also reveals techniques of the quarter staff and of the French "Canne and Baton". Of course no discussion of magic in the Northern Tradition would be complete without a discussion of the Runes, and here Nigel Pennick offers a well-written introduction as well. Protective techniques and objects are next discussed, including talismans and amulets, sacred pillars and wooden temples. Finally we learn of ceremony and rituals of the Northern Tradition. This includes Yule, Wassailing, and the Wild Hunt as well as the Equinoxes, Imbolic and May Day. For those who follow the Northern Tradition, Practical Magic in the Northern Tradition is a "must have" resource. Herein we find the spirit of the Northern People as it has been for a thousand years. Both well-researched and well written, Nigel Pennick has given us a guidebook for our journey on the road north. A most informative, enjoyable and highly recommended book!

This book is an excellent study of the folk magic practices of the Germanic peoples. Most books on Germanic magic and religion talk more about the structure and form of the Germans, not what they practiced. In Pennick's book he talks about specific folk traditions and customs that have been practiced for hundreds of years, some of which are still observed. This book is more an interesting collection of folk magic than anything else and as far as I know, the only one on the Germans. It is and enjoyable read and an invaluable source for the Germanic praticitioner.