The Anglo-Saxons, before the spread of Christianity, worshipped a pantheon of gods. These gods held great importance in their society and played a significant role in their daily lives. The principal deities worshipped by the Anglo-Saxons were Tiw, Woden, Thor, and Frig. These gods represented various aspects of life and nature and were venerated through rituals and offerings.
Tiw, also known as Týr in Old Norse mythology, was the god of war and justice. He was associated with courage, honor, and righteous warfare. The day dedicated to Tiw is Tuesday, derived from the Old English word “Tiwsdæg,” meaning “Tiw’s day.”
Woden, also known as Odin in Norse mythology, was the chief god of the Anglo-Saxons. He governed wisdom, knowledge, poetry, and the magic arts. Woden was also associated with death and the afterlife. The day dedicated to Woden is Wednesday, originating from the Old English term “Wodnesdæg,” meaning “Woden’s day.”
Thor, the god of thunder and strength, was highly revered by the Anglo-Saxons. He was seen as the protector of humanity and the defender against evil forces. Thor’s day is Thursday, derived from the Old English word “Þūnresdæg,” meaning “Thor’s day.”
Frig, also known as Frigg or Freyja in Norse mythology, was the goddess of love, marriage, and fertility. She was associated with beauty, motherhood, and domesticity. The day dedicated to Frig is Friday, originating from the Old English term “Frigedæg,” meaning “Frig’s day.”
These gods played a significant role in the Anglo-Saxon culture and beliefs. They were worshipped through rituals and sacrifices, and their favor was sought for protection, success in battle, fertility, and various aspects of life. Offerings were made at sacred sites, such as groves or mounds, and ceremonies were conducted by priests or religious leaders.
The Anglo-Saxons believed that their gods influenced natural phenomena like storms, crops, and seasons. They sought the gods’ blessings to ensure good harvests, prosperity, and overall well-being. The gods were also believed to guide and protect individuals, and their worship was seen as a way to establish a harmonious relationship with the divine.
It is important to note that the Anglo-Saxon religion was polytheistic, meaning they worshipped multiple gods simultaneously. The gods were not seen as all-powerful or all-knowing but rather as supernatural beings with specific domains of influence. Worship of these gods was deeply ingrained in the daily lives of the Anglo-Saxons, permeating their culture, customs, and rituals.
The Anglo-Saxons worshipped a pantheon of gods, including Tiw, Woden, Thor, and Frig. These gods represented different aspects of life and nature and were venerated through rituals and offerings. The days of the week, such as Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, are derived from the names of these gods, reflecting their significance in Anglo-Saxon society.