The silver amulet of the Viking period associated with the Norwegian goddess Freya was discovered in Aska, in the parish of Hagebyhöga, in the hundred of Aska, located in the municipality of Vadstena, Östergötland, Sweden.
Freya is a multifaceted goddess in Norse mythology, with two of her main aspects being love and fertility. She is also associated with erotic poetry and is often linked to the concept of prostitution, which was common among goddesses of love in various ancient mythologies. Additionally, Freya is known for practicing seidr, a form of Scandinavian magic. In fact, she is credited with introducing magic to both the gods and humans in Norse mythology.
One of the distinctive forms of magic associated with Freya is known as divination or fortune-telling. She is believed to have the ability to change destiny, which is a significant aspect of her character. This connection to fate and magic is intriguing because it aligns with the existence of magical practitioners in Norse culture, known as Volvas.
Volvas were women who practiced sorcery and divination. They traveled from place to place, offering their magical services in exchange for accommodation and food. The status of Volvas in society was complex; they were simultaneously esteemed, feared, sought after, celebrated, and sometimes scorned. Archaeological findings from the tomb of a Volva in Öland, Sweden, displayed at the Swedish Museum of National Antiquities in Stockholm, include various artifacts, such as an 82 cm iron rod with bronze details, a likely Persian jug, and a Western European bronze bowl. These items illustrate the extensive travels undertaken by Volvas.
One of the most famous Volvas appears in the epic poem "Beowulf." According to Roman historian Tacitus, the Queen of Denmark, known as Veleda, held a similar role. As the wife of a chieftain, it was her duty to predict the outcomes of proposed military actions through divination. During ritual feasts, Veleda would serve a special drink to the warriors, believed to aid them in their upcoming quests.
This rich tapestry of mythology, magic, and historical references adds depth to the complex character of Freya and the cultural context in which she was revered.
