“A thorough, highly accessible, and engaging work on one of the most significant of the Nordic goddesses. Durkan effectively blends solid research with intersectional analysis and spiritual practice in this compelling work. Frigg’s Twelvefold Flame is a welcome addition to any Heathen or Norse-curious seeker’s bookshelf.”
—Ryan Smith , author of The Way of Fire and Ice and Spinning Wyrd
“There is very little information out there about some of the goddesses in Frigg’s retinue; not only has Rev. Máire Durkan found a way to find little bits of information here and there, but she also creates a framework for a practitioner to develop their own relationship with these goddesses in a powerful and authentic way. Providing information in a clear and organic manner, she provides a path to being able to worship these goddesses in a much deeper way. As a disabled activist, I found the approach to these goddesses reaffirming and motivational. I can’t recommend it enough!”
—Stacey Lynne Stewart , Distelfink Sippschaft Godsperson, coauthor of Heathen Traditions of the Pennsylvania Dutch
“Frigg’s Twelvefold Flame is a wonderful resource. From the oldest textual mentions of Frigg to a modern-day understanding of her, Rev. Máire Durkan takes the reader on a journey in which she uncovers every aspect of this deity and her retinue of goddesses. The book highlights the relevance Frigg and her companions have for modern spiritual practice and daily life. … Rev. Durkan considers both Continental Germanic and Norse sources while beautifully weaving in her personal gnosis. Complete with
practical suggestions, this book presents readers with a complex yet friendly approach to learning about and from Frigg.”
—Daniela Simina , author of Where Fairies Meet, A Fairy Path, and Fairy Herbs for Fairy Magic
“I am not a Heathen, but I have been in friendship and community with Heathens for several decades. I have studied enough lore that I am sometimes presumed to be Heathen when I am at events and view it as an honor. My appreciation of this path and community has been reinvigorated by what I found in Frigg’s Twelvefold Flame. It is rooted in history and lore while also expressing a modern and progressive worldview. It blends devotional approaches with magick to create rituals and practices for social activism and personal freedom. In addition to a nuanced exploration of the goddess Frigg, we are introduced to the goddesses of Frigg’s retinue. There are so many sections in this book that are inspiring because the words are aglow with the author’s love and sincerity. I recommend this book for Pagans, polytheists, and Witches as strongly as I do for Heathens. It is a treasure trove of living practice.”
—Ivo Dominguez Jr , author of the Witch’s Sun Sign series
“Frigg’s Twelvefold Flame is both a wonderful introduction to the dynamic goddess of Norse myth and a platform for a deeper relationship with Frigg and her retinue of powerful goddesses. Rev. Máire Durkan expands past her firm grounding in history and lore into today’s world to offer empowerment, connection, and hope.”
—Ash Glasse , leader of Elk Ridge Kindred, Heathen presenter, and educator
FrIgg’S TwElvEfoLd
FLAME
About the Author
Rev. Máire Durkan is a Friggswoman, an ordained godsperson, and the clergy coordinator for the Troth, one of the oldest international Heathen organizations, as well as an interfaith hospital chaplain and a certified birth doula. She has researched Frigg’s court for over a decade, drawing on primary sources and modern practice. In addition to Frigg’s Twelvefold Flame, Rev. Durkan is the author of Circle of Frith and the children’s book Solstice Moon Solstice Sun. She has written about Frigg and related goddesses in magazines such as Idunna and has led workshops and ceremonies at conferences. Her work emphasizes justice, healing, and interfaith understanding. Learn more at RevMaireDurkanAuthor.com.
FrIgg’S TwElvEfoLd F L AME
Creating Justice & Healing with the Goddess & Her Court
Llewellyn Publications is a registered trademark of Llewellyn Worldwide Ltd.
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ISBN: 978-0-7387-8377-2
Llewellyn Worldwide Ltd. does not participate in, endorse, or have any authority or responsibility concerning private business transactions between our authors and the public.
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Llewellyn Publications
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Printed in the United States of America
GPSR Representation: UPI-2M PLUS d.o.o., Medulićeva 20, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia matt.parsons@upi2mbooks.hr
Other Books by Rev. Máire Durkan
Circle of Frith (The Troth, 2021)
Solstice Moon Solstice Sun (Brigid’s Hearth Press, 2012)
Dedication
For my darling daughters, Ellen and Colleen, and my precious granddaughter, Evelyn.
To my beloved Patrick, with love and thanks for your constant support.
Thanks to my editor, Elysia Gallo, for her direction.
Contents
Introduction … 1
Section 1: On Frigg and Foundations
Chapter 1: Who Is Frigg? … 7
Chapter 2: Wyrd, Orlög, Runes, and Galdr … 31
Chapter 3: Key Terms, Creating Sacred Space, and Personal Gnosis … 49
Chapter 4: Sacred Activism … 69
Section 2: The Many Aspects of Frigg
Chapter 5: All-Mother: Mothering as a Gender-Neutral Verb … 81
Chapter 6: Frigg as Queen: Sovereignty, Service, and the Sacred Feminine … 93
Chapter 7: Frigg as the Beloved: Love, Autonomy, and the Sacred Feminine … 101
Chapter 8: Frigg as Far-Seeing, Wyrd Spinner, and Magick Worker … 115
Chapter 9: Frigg as Key Keeper … 127
Chapter 10: Frigg and the Reclamation of Homemaking’s Sacred Role … 137
Chapter 11: Frigg’s General Correspondences for Daily Devotion … 147
Section 3: The Goddesses of Frigg’s Hearth
Chapter 12: Reclaiming Frigg’s Retinue … 155
Chapter 13: Saga: Chronicler of Suppressed Stories, Keeper of Ancestral Memories … 159
Contents
Chapter 14: Eir: Guardian of Wholeness, Mender of Body, Mind, and Spirit … 173
Chapter 15: Gefjun: Cultivator of Abundance, Guardian of Autonomy … 185
Chapter 16: Fulla: Protector of Hidden Abundance and Bold Resilience … 199
Chapter 17: Sjöfn: Weaver of Affection, Guardian of Sacred Bonds … 211
Chapter 18: Lofn: Guardian of Forbidden Unions Between Adults … 219
Chapter 19: Vár: Witness of Oaths and Weaver of Justice … 233
Chapter 20: Vör: Seeress and Revealer of Hidden Truths … 241
Chapter 21: Syn: Guardian of Thresholds and Sovereign Refusal … 251
Chapter 22: Hlín: Protector of the Persecuted, Embodiment of Sacred Shelter … 261
Chapter 23: Snotra: Builder of Social Harmony … 271
Chapter 24: Gná: Frigg’s Envoy, Bridger of Realms and Thresholds … 287
Section 4: Endings and Beginnings
Chapter 25: Sacred Alliances: Kindling the Twelvefold Flame Within … 299
Bibliography … 311 Index … 315
Introduction
Whether you are Heathen, coming from a different spiritual tradition, or exploring a path that respects ancient wisdom while engaging with contemporary issues, welcome! Frigg’s Twelvefold Flame is a call to action and a tool kit for social activism and connecting with the sacred feminine. This book is designed to help you explore, adapt, reclaim, and connect with Frigg and her related goddesses through practices, rituals, meditation, and stories.
The book is divided into four sections, each serving a unique purpose. Getting to know each other beforehand is helpful, so section 1 covers Frigg’s origins, examining her roots in primary sources and references in Heathen lore. It also introduces her twelve related goddesses, each of whom has a dedicated chapter in section 3. For those unfamiliar with terms such as frith (communal peace), wyrd (fate), blót (a heathen rite), or galdr (chanted magick), a chapter is included to explain these concepts. I also review the creation of sacred space and introduce the Elder Futhark runes used throughout the book. Before moving on to section 2, we explore the methods and approaches of sacred activism, highlighting how these goddesses can support your activism in various fields. If you’re already familiar with these topics, feel free to skip this section; however, you’re welcome
to review it again if needed. I also intentionally use the spelling magick to distinguish the movement of energy with intent and purpose from magic as sleight of hand.
The chapters in section 2 each examine a different aspect of Frigg’s power, highlighting how her energies in that area can help you today. Each chapter begins with an overview of a specific aspect, followed by a discussion of the vocations and professions associated with it that Frigg supports. Next I present magickal correspondences, prayers, rites, meditations, a message (charge) from the goddess, affirmations, and activities designed to help you connect with her in that aspect. I have tried these practices and found them to be effective, but as you become more familiar with Frigg and her allied goddesses, I encourage you to create your own rites and affirmations and explore associated correspondences.
Each chapter in section 3 introduces one allied goddess from Frigg’s sovereign council, in the order in which they are listed in chapter 35 of the Prose Edda. The chapters in this section follow the same format as those in section 2, beginning with lore and scholarly references. Then I present the professions and vocations that the goddess supports in activism and self-development, along with correspondences, prayers, meditations, rites, a charge from that goddess, affirmations, and related activities.
The book ends with a traditional Heathen blót honoring Frigg and her council in section 4, though earlier rites are intentionally flexible, allowing for changes, reinterpretation, and personalization.
The goddesses are allies in our efforts and are ready to meet you where you are. Their goal is not to “fix” you but to support your activism and your ongoing journey toward greater self-awareness and fulfillment. As we work to improve our world,
we remain connected to the sacred feminine, a creative energy that transcends gender, emphasizing intuition, teamwork, and a deep commitment to authenticity. Today, patriarchal systems are doubling down. In the United States, women are often forced to carry nonviable pregnancies or risk bleeding out in emergency rooms as lawmakers debate their rights. BIPOC communities suffer from systemic neglect and increased anti-immigrant scrutiny, while trans individuals face criminalization. LGBTQIA+ youth are denied the right to self-identify, and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, first steps toward fairness, are now being dismantled and discarded. It is a battle against autonomy, whose goal is to weaken our collective power and instigate silence, fear, and mistrust. But remember, you are not alone in this fight. We are a community, united in our shared purpose.
As an intersectional feminist, witch, Heathen godswoman, and devotee of Frigg (Friggswoman) within an inclusive Heathen tradition, I am committed to honoring the earth, its seen and unseen beings, and the sacred diversity it holds. I deeply respect practices that bridge different worlds, cultures, and identities. This book serves as a practical guide to Frigg and her allied goddesses, crafted to resonate with you today, regardless of your spiritual background or current level of understanding.
SECTION 1 ON F r IGG AND FOUNDATIONS
This section covers the key questions—who, what, when, where, and why—that set the stage. Whether you are new to this material or revisiting it, I hope section 1 provides helpful context. It introduces Frigg and her goddess allies, then explores ideas such as wyrd, orlög, Elder Futhark runes, and galdr, which underpin the rites and meditations later in the book. It also discusses creating sacred space, blót, invocations, and altar crafting to honor Frigg and her allies. Finally, it covers sacred activism—activism, inclusivity, reimagining goddesses—to meet modern needs and support your spiritual journey.
CHApTer 1
Who Is Frigg?
frigg’s legacy goes beyond the lore. As a strategist, healer, magick worker, and mother mourning the death of her son Baldur, she is a complex goddess. Both kind and nurturing, as well as strong and commanding, Frigg is peaceful yet capable of strategizing and confronting adversities. Honoring Frigg means holding her keys, symbols of thresholds and access, as tools to decolonize our spirituality. Through rituals or activism, we can channel her influence.
Key Sources in Norse Mythology
Here are some key sources frequently referenced in Norse mythology.
The Poetic Edda (or Elder Edda)
The Poetic Edda, also called the Elder Edda, is a cornerstone of Old Norse literature, written between the ninth and twelfth centuries. It’s a collection of mythological and heroic poems passed down orally, exploring themes such as creation, fate, and the intricate relationships between humans and gods. This work is a treasure trove of ancient myths that might have been lost otherwise. It gives us a glimpse into the values, beliefs, and practices of the Norse
Chapter 1 people, shedding light on their worldview, including concepts of fate, honor, and the bond between humans and the divine.
The Prose Edda (or Younger Edda)
The Prose Edda, also called the Younger Edda, is a key source for understanding Norse mythology and the poetic traditions of the Viking Age. Written by Snorri Sturluson in the thirteenth century, it offers a detailed account of Norse myths, gods, and cosmology, and its second section, Skáldskaparmál (Old Norse for “poetic diction”),1 serves as a textbook for medieval Icelandic poets. Its significance is in maintaining oral traditions and shaping future literature and scholarship. Snorri’s works are invaluable, despite his Christian background and the patriarchal perspective of his time, because he treated the source material respectfully and preserved stories that would have otherwise been lost.
History of the Danes (Gesta Danorum)
The work of Saxo Grammaticus, the Danish historian, is notorious for being a difficult read. Still, he is important for comparison and reference because he drew on similar source material, oral tradition, or an earlier manuscript collection. Nevertheless, his accounts do not accurately depict the Old Norse material he references. Saxo Grammaticus, a Christian who rejected the old gods, extensively modified and edited sources to match his own narrative and ideological goals, a practice known as euhemerization. He appears to have no trouble inserting aspects of his ideology, such as intense misogyny, while avoiding mentioning figures he despises, such as the goddess Freyja.
1. Sturluson, The Prose Edda, 80.
Recommended Translations
There are many translations of these works, but here are the ones I recommend:
• Carolyne Larrington’s or Jackson Crawford’s translation of the Poetic Edda
• Jesse Byock’s translation of the Prose Edda
• Hávamál: A New Translation by Ben Waggoner, an excellent pocket-size version of the Poetic Edda’s Hávamál, or “the counsel of Odin”
• Peter Jensen (translator) and Karsten Friis-Jensen (editor), Gesta Danorum: The History of the Danes, 2015
• Peter Fisher (translator) and Hilda Ellis Davidson (editor), Saxo Grammaticus: The History of the Danes, Books I–IX, 1979
For further academic study, I recommend works by scholars such as H. R. Ellis Davidson and Jesse Byock, as well as Patricia Lafayllve’s A Practical Heathen’s Guide to Asatru, which connects historical analysis and modern spiritual practice. Additionally, consider Rudolf Simek’s Dictionary of Norse Mythology , Ben Waggoner’s Our Troth, Volume II: Heathen Gods, John Lindow’s Norse Mythology: A Guide to the Gods, Heroes, Rituals and Beliefs, and Kevin Crossley-Holland’s classic anthology The Norse Myths.
Frigg’s Name, Origins, and Associations
Understanding a deity’s name, its origins, and its historical background offers valuable insights into the being’s identity, personality, and domains of power. Based on the history of Frigg’s name, we know that she is an ancient goddess worshiped across continental Germanic regions, Anglo-Saxon Britain, and Scandinavia. Frigg
(Old Norse), Frija (Old High German), and Fri (Old Saxon) can be traced to the Proto-Indo-European root word *priya-, “beloved,” which is also connected to Old Norse’s frið, “peace,” frja, “love,” and frændi, “relative,” as well as to Old English’s freo, “free,” and freond, “friend,” and to Old Norse’s Fríð-leikr, “beauty.” 2 Frigg’s name suggests that she is connected to various Scandinavian, German, and English words for peace, love, freedom, family, friendship, and beauty, all qualities attributed to her in mythology.
In its Proto-Germanic form, Frigg’s name can be traced back to the Germanic tribes before the Common Era, and her veneration was so significant across Germanic regions that third- and fourth-century Romans equated Frigg with Venus. The Roman dies Veneris (Day of Venus) equates to the Old Norse friadagr and the Old English frīgedaeg, or Friday.3 Frigg’s name is associated with many Scandinavian place names, such as Friggeraker in Sweden, indicating widespread cult activity at one time.4 Medieval Vikings called the planet Venus (the “morning star”) Friggjarstjarna, or “Frigg’s star.” 5 In Swedish folk tradition, Friggerock, literally “Frigg’s distaff,” is the name of the constellation Orion’s Belt, suggesting that Frigg was associated with spinning.6 A beautiful green orchid of Iceland’s fertile heathland is still called Friggjargras.7 Icelanders used this orchid’s roots to increase fer-
2. Cleasby and Vigfusson, “Cleasby & Vigfusson Old Norse Dictionary,” “friðleikr,” accessed February 2026, https://cleasby-vigfusson-dictionary .vercel.app/word/frid-leikr.
3. Simek, Dictionary of Northern Mythology, 94.
4. Lindow, Norse Mythology, 129.
5. Bender, “Anglo-Saxon and Viking Individual Star Names,” 51.
6. Bender, “Anglo-Saxon and Viking Individual Star Names,” 51.
7. Vuijk, “Flora of Iceland Elements: Platanthera hyperborea, Northern Green Orchid, Friggjargras.”
Who Is Frigg? 11
tility, enhance male potency, alleviate menstrual problems, and aid in childbirth, all aspects of Frigg’s purview.8
Frigg in Myths and Other Sources
Just as Odin is the All-Father, Frigg is the All-Mother and Odin’s only official wife. In Snorri Sturluson’s The Prose Edda, High (Odin) tells us that Frigg is the foremost of the goddesses. 9 In Egil’s Saga, the gods collectively are referred to as her descendants.10 In relatively modern times, the letter a was added to Frigg’s name to make it appear more feminine, and it is a matter of preference which name you choose.
Frigg’s hall is Fensalir, Old Norse for “marsh hall,” a place of liminality between solid land and sea. During the Iron Age, Scandinavian bogs were sacrificial sites of human remains, weapons, gold jewelry, hair locks, spinning instruments, and items spun from flax.11 In Old Norse, fen (plural: fenja) is a general term for any boggy, marshy area.12 Frigg’s connection to marshy Fensalir indicates that she received offerings such as these. Frigg’s connection to the wetlands reflects her fluidity, contrasting with the patriarchal warrior violence of Odin’s Valhalla (the hall where slain warriors battle and feast) and the domestic passivity of a lady’s bower. Much like the waters of Fensalir, Frigg employs fluidity and adaptability to advance her objectives and gradually overcome what appear to be insurmountable obstacles.
11. Davidson, The Lost Beliefs of Northern Europe, 117.
12. Cleasby and Vigfusson, “Cleasby & Vigfusson Old Norse Dictionary,” “fen,” accessed February 2026, https://cleasby-vigfusson-dictionary.vercel.app /word/fen.
Chapter 1
Because the Elder (Poetic) Edda, the Younger (Prose) Edda, the Icelandic Sagas, and other sources, such as Saxo Grammaticus’s The History of the Danes, were written as Heathenry was declining or well into the Christianization process, much of the oral tradition has been lost or interpreted through a Christian perspective. These sources come from different traditions (such as Icelandic versus Danish) and have varying spellings that can alter relationships. Some of Frigg’s relationships are open to debate because they are preserved in only a single source.
Frigg is depicted in the Poetic and Prose Eddas as a goddess of great complexity. In the second section of the Prose Edda, known as Skáldskaparmál (“poetic diction”), aspiring skalds (“poets”) are advised to refer to Frigg as Queen of the Aesir and Fensalir (her realm), as well as Fjörgynn’s daughter, Odin’s wife, and mother of Baldur. Frigg is Nanna’s mother-in-law and holder of the falcon feather cloak, and she is seen as a “rival” of Odin’s lovers Jord, Rind, Gunnlod, and Grid.13 As Odin’s equal consort, Frigg shares his high seat, Hliðskjálf, and advises him on matters of statecraft and fate. However, her power is unique. While Odin seeks knowledge through conquest, Frigg’s wisdom comes from foresight, diplomacy, strategy, and the quiet work of weaving bonds within family and across societies and worlds. The following myths give us a deeper understanding of Frigg.
Baldur’s Dreams (Poetic Edda), Baldur’s Death (Prose Edda), and Hermod’s Ride (Prose Edda)
Baldur the Beautiful, beloved son of Odin and Frigg, paced through Asgard’s halls, haunted by nightmares of his death. Frigg
13. Sturluson, The Prose Edda, 111.
Is Frigg? 13
was deeply troubled and asked the Aesir (gods) and Ásynjur (goddesses) to gather in council. Answers were needed, and Odin, the All-Father, knew who to consult to discover what was hidden even from his wise wife. He mounted his eightlegged steed Sleipnir, which could soar across the worlds, and descended into the cold, misty realm of the goddess Hel, ruler of the underworld. There he called upon a long-dead seeress, who revealed that Baldur would die.
Filled with dread but determined to prevent her beloved son’s doom, Frigg traveled across the nine realms. She extracted oaths from everything—fire, water, stone, metal, beasts, and even illness—ensuring they would never harm Baldur. Only a young mistletoe, hanging from an oak west of Valhalla, seemed too innocent to harm Baldur, so she did not ask for its oath. The gods celebrated by throwing weapons at Baldur, laughing as axes broke and spears splintered against him, rejoicing that they could not hurt him.
Loki, the son of the Jotun Fárbauti (“far striker”) and the Ásynja Laufey (“foliage island”), was a wanderer who moved between worlds with a cleverness that made him a master shape-shifter.14
Bonded to Odin through blood-brotherhood, he was accepted into Frigg’s household. Always restless, Loki loved mischief and found joy in disguises. One day he dressed as an old woman and approached Frigg. The genial old lady skillfully coaxed the truth
14. There is some debate about Laufey’s status as a goddess. Loki is always called “Loki Laufeyjarson,” with Laufey possibly meaning “foliage island” or “nál” (needle), suggesting that she could be a tree goddess. Loki uses the matronymic because his mother’s status might be higher than his Jotun father’s. In the Prose Edda, Loki is considered an Aesir, even though kinship is usually traced through paternal lines. Simek, Dictionary of Northern Mythology, 186; Lindow, Norse Mythology, 216.
Chapter 1
from Frigg, learning that the small mistletoe had not sworn an oath. Loki enjoyed the chaos he would create. Carving a dart from the mistletoe’s stem, he found Baldur’s blind brother, Höðr, on the edge of the revelers. “Join the fun and honor your brother,” Loki urged. Loki guided Höðr’s hand and the dart pierced Baldur’s heart. Baldur fell to the ground dead. Then the gods and goddesses mourned in Asgard.
Baldur’s funeral pyre blazed upon his great ship Hringhorni, which only the giantess Hyrrokkin could launch. Baldur’s wife, Nanna, collapsing from grief, joined him in death. Odin placed his golden ring, Draupnir, which creates eight new rings every ninth night, on the pyre while whispering into Baldur’s ear.
Unable to accept her shining son’s death, Frigg pleaded for one of the gods to ride to Hel’s hall to secure Baldur’s release. Odin’s son Hermod the Bold volunteered. Hermod rode Odin’s steed Sleipnir across raging rivers into the cold, dark underworld. After nine nights, Hermod crossed the echoing bridge of Gjöll, guarded by the giantess Modgud, and soared over the gates of Hel’s realm. He found Baldur and Nanna in Hel’s gloomy hall. Hel, half-corpse and half-queen, decreed that Baldur could walk free only if all things wept for him.
Frigg sent messengers racing through the nine worlds. So loved was Baldur that everyone agreed. Stones wept dew, metals rusted, and beasts howled their grief. But in a cold cave, the giantess Thokk, perhaps Loki in disguise, snarled, “Let Hel hold what she has! Baldur never gave me joy.” Baldur remained bound to the shadows until his return after the final battle of Ragnarök.
Frigg in the Baldur Myth
Role Action
Limitation
Queen Secures oaths from all creation Overlooks mistletoe as trivial
Grieving mother Begs for Hermod’s quest Cannot alter Hel’s conditions
Seeress Knows Baldur’s wyrd Cannot bend Baldur’s wyrd
Protector Seeks oaths not to harm Baldur and petitions for his return
Does not anticipate Loki’s duplicity
Grímnismál (Frigg’s Gambit in the Poetic Edda)
The air crackled with tension as Odin and Frigg gazed across the nine worlds. Below them, two royal brothers, Agnar (Frigg’s mortal foster son) and Geirröth (Odin’s mortal foster son), lived starkly different lives. Agnar, Frigg’s foster son, dwelled humbly in a cave with a giantess, while Odin’s protégé, Geirröth, sat arrogantly on a throne that he had stolen from his older brother and rightful heir through Odin’s cunning counsel. “See how your Agnar scrapes like a beggar?” Odin taunted. “My Geirröth commands kingdoms!”
Frigg’s eyes widened, saying, “Your foster son’s a miser who breaks hospitality, letting his guests go hungry, and rules through fear!” Odin denied this as outrageous, so Frigg crafted a strategy. “Prove me wrong and visit him in disguise!” she declared. Sure that he would win the argument, Odin agreed.
Frigg sent her sister goddess Fulla to the king’s hall, where she whispered to Geirröth, “Beware! A sorcerer is coming to enchant you. You’ll know him by his blue cloak and because none of your guard dogs will bark at him.”
Chapter 1
When Odin arrived as Grímnir, a cloaked and hooded traveler, the dogs were silent, so Geirröth ordered his guards to seize the dreaded wizard. “Bind him! He will reveal his identity or suffer my wrath!” The guards bound Odin between two roaring fires, where he suffered without food, drink, or relief for eight nights. Geirröth demanded that he reveal his identity and secrets to no avail.
As flames singed Odin’s cloak, only Geirröth’s young son Agnar, named after his uncle, showed mercy. He offered water to Odin, a small act of kindness that sealed Geirröth’s fate. Odin revealed his true form, blessing young Agnar and dooming Geirröth for his breach of hospitality. The All-Father’s eyes blazed with fury, and Geirröth could not meet his gaze. “Now your life is forfeit!” Leaping up in panic to make amends, Geirröth stumbled onto his sword, which pierced him through the heart. With his father dead, Agnar, the namesake of Frigg’s foster son, rose to rule. Odin imparted much wisdom to the young ruler, and Frigg blessed his rule.
Frigg in the Grímnismál (Frigg’s Gambit)
Role Action Subversion of Norms
Queen Provokes Odin’s wager Uses the male ego to expose corruption
Strategist Deploys Fulla as a secret messenger Turns divine omens against patriarchy and uses gossip as a weapon to achieve justice
Foster mother
Elevates Agnar, her foster son’s nephew, because of his empathy
Challenges the idea that might makes right and establishes rule with empathy
The Lombard Origin Myth (Paul the Deacon’s Historia Langobardorum)
In his six-book work Historia Langobardorum, Paul the Deacon, an eighth-century historian, described the origins and tribes of the Lombards. Originally known as the Winnili, they were a Germanic tribe from northern Europe that migrated south and established themselves in Italy, ruling from the sixth to the eighth centuries. Their legendary leader and wise woman was Gambara. The Vandals, an East Germanic tribe mentioned by Paul the Deacon as the Winnili’s formidable rivals, also migrated across Europe.
The warrior queen Gambara’s tribe, the Winnilis, faced battle because they defied the Vandal leaders’ demand for tribute. The Vandals, confident in their might, prayed to Godan (Odin), who promised that the first army he saw at dawn would be victorious. Unbeknownst to the Winnili, Odin was already planning to award victory to the Vandals by waking up in the direction of their army.
Queen Gambara invoked Frigg. Moved by Gambara’s courage, Frigg concocted a bold plan. “Let your women ride out at sunrise beside their menfolk,” she advised, “with their long hair tied in front like beards across their chins and face the east.”
Just before the break of dawn, Frigg turned Odin’s bed to face the Winnili camp. As the sun’s first rays touched the earth, Odin awoke and saw rank upon rank of long-bearded warriors. “Who are these Longbeards?” he exclaimed.
Frigg replied, “You named them! Now you must give them victory!” Bound by his own words, Odin consented and cast his spear over the Vandals. The Winnili triumphed over the Vandals and were known from then on as Langobards (Longbeards).
Chapter 1
Frigg in the Lombard Myth
Role Action Result
All-Mother and queen Takes Gambara’s tribe under her wing Empowers mortal female leadership
Strategist Manipulates Odin’s view at dawn Challenges male authority
Bender of perceptions Hair as a beard Redefines gender norms
Lokasenna (Loki’s Quarrel in the Poetic Edda)
Long after Baldur and his wife, Nanna, died, when the grief of the Aesir and Ásynjur had lessened, the old sea god Aegir invited the Aesir, Ásynjur, and many radiant light elves to a feast in his golden hall beneath the waves. With his trusted servants, Fimafang and Eldir, Aegir brewed the best ale in a mighty cauldron provided by Thor. All attended except Thor, who was battling giants in the East, and Loki, who was shunned and uninvited because of his part in Baldur’s death. The hall was filled with laughter and goodwill as the guests drank, feasted, and enjoyed each other’s company.
Loki lurked outside the hall, thinking, “They’ll all pay dearly for shutting me out! I’ll sow such discord that Aegir’s excellent ale will sour!”
Loki strutted into the room, sneering. He grew angrier, and the gods and goddesses praised Aegir’s excellent servants. In a fit of malice, Loki caught Fimafang and killed him, breaking the sacred peace of the hall. The gods quickly stood up and chased him out, where he escaped, and they resumed the feast.
But Loki sneaked back into the hall and insulted each god’s courage while accusing the goddesses of being oversexed strumpets. Knowing that Aegir’s Hall was sacrosanct, the gods and goddesses tried to calm Loki, but to no avail. He insulted Freyr, Freyja, Braggi, and even Odin himself, whom he accused (with some truth) of abandoning his champions in battle so he could harvest them for Valhalla.
As the insults between Odin and his blood brother continued, Frigg the Frith Weaver intervened, saying, “What the two of you did in the past should stay in the past and not be argued about here!”
“Shut up, Frigg!” Loki snapped. “You’re so horny that you slept with both of Odin’s brothers while he was off rambling.”
Frigg’s voice was soft, but her eyes blazed. “If my Baldur were here, you’d never escape the beating he’d give you.”
One corner of Loki’s mouth pulled into a sour grin. “Do you want to stir this up when I’m the reason you’ll never again see Baldur ride into these halls?”
Freyja stepped forward. “With all the wicked deeds you’ve committed, you’re insane to insult Frigg! She knows all fate, including yours, though she chooses not to speak about it.”
“Shut up, you witch!” Loki snarled. His insults continued until the hall shook as Thor entered.
Thor gripped his hammer. “Be silent, wicked creature, or Mjölnir will shorten your speech and life.”
Loki cringed and stepped back toward the door. “I wouldn’t be quiet for these Aesir, but I’ll keep my mouth shut for you because I know you mean business. May flame take this hall!”
Chapter 1
Frigg in the Lokasenna (Loki’s Quarrel)
Role Loki’s Accusation Actions
Frith keeper Odin betrays his champions. Frigg advises that they keep the past in the past and not argue about past deeds in a frithstead.
Grieving mother
Baldur is dead by Loki’s hand.
Lady Sovereignty 15
Frigg mourns the loss of Baldur and wishes he were there to punish Loki.
Frigg slept with Odin’s brothers. Frigg does not dispute this. As queen, she embodies the realm.
Seeress Loki asks Frigg if she wants him to discuss the evil he’s done.
Frigg remains silent. She knows Loki’s punishment is coming. Freyja reminds him that Frigg knows all fates.
The Lay of Vafthrudnir (Odin’s Contest with the Jotun Riddle-Weaver in the Poetic Edda)
Odin and Frigg surveyed the nine worlds from Hliðskjálf, the high seat of all-seeing, upon which only they were permitted to sit. Odin rose and passed restlessly.
“Advise me, beloved. I’ve a powerful urge to pit my wits against old Riddle-Weaver, the wisest of Jotuns.” Frigg studied her pacing husband and sighed. She knew the Wanderer’s passion for knowledge all too well!
“My advice is that you remain in Asgard. To my knowledge, Riddle-Weaver is the wisest and most powerful of all giants, and I fear trouble lies in that direction.”
Odin stopped pacing and regarded Frigg with affection. “I’ve wandered far and gained much wisdom across the nine worlds, and all that the gods know, I know. Now I greatly desire to test my wits against that old riddle-master Vafthrudnir.”
Frigg sighed softly. When Odin itched for wisdom, even her counsel would not hold him from his quest. She could not prevent his journey, but with her holy might she could bless him and his travels. “Then may you journey safely and return to me safely. May the paths you travel always be safe for you. Keep your wits at their sharpest, All-Father, when you contend with this Jotun!”
Then, disguised as “Good Advisor,” Odin journeyed to RiddleWeaver’s hall atop a mountain in Jotunheim. Long Odin sat in that hall, matching wit and wisdom with the wise and crafty giant. The winner of that battle of wits would take the other’s head, and they were well matched in wisdom. Finally, Odin asked, “Tell me this, Riddle-Weaver. What did I whisper in my son Baldur’s ear before the pyre was lit and he took the road to Hel’s Hall?”
Riddle-Weaver had no answer. Odin won the contest and returned to Frigg’s arms to celebrate his victory.
Body, Mind & Spirit / Magical Studies
“A thorough, highly accessible, and engaging work. ... Durkan effectively blends solid research with intersectional analysis and spiritual practice in this compelling work.”
—Ryan Smith, author of The Way of Fire and Ice
This is not just a devotional but a call to action. Join Rev. Máire Durkan as she introduces Frigg and her retinue of goddesses who specialize in confronting patriarchal violence, systemic racism, queer erasure, and every other form of oppression that exists.
By blending Heathen and Neo-Pagan practices with intersectional feminism, Rev. Durkan has created rituals, meditations, and prayers that equip the reader to form deep connections with the goddesses to reclaim autonomy, heal trauma, and rebuild kinship through sacred action. She also provides practical tools, such as workings for digital activism and equitable wealth flow, to assist you on every level. Whether you worship alone or as part of a community, this book helps tend the hearth within and around you for a more just world.
Rev. Máire Durkan is an ordained minister, clergy coordinator, and Friggswoman within the Troth, one of the oldest Heathen organizations in the US. She has researched Frigg’s court in primary sources and modern practice for over a decade. Through teaching ventures and her book Circle of Frith, she has shared this knowledge with the world. Learn more at TheTroth.org/clergy.
