Disting Blessings

Sæl og vel mætt! This month we celebrated Disting in the Ásatrú tradition. Other traditions call it many things, from Oimelc to Imbolg, but the important points are there for all.

This is a time of rebirth and renewal, a connection between what was and what is coming. The earth is waking from her slumber, and many are beginning to plant their spring herbs and gardens.

I'd like to take a moment to acknowledge the Gods in all their forms, and to say to those who may be reading this the following prayer:

Icelandic:

Dísir og forfeður,

Við heiðrum ykkur á þessum helga degi.

Veitið okkur visku og styrk,

Blessið landið og fólkið.

Megi þetta Disting færa okkur frið og gnægð.

English Pronunciation Guide:

DEE-sir og FOR-fe-thur,

Vith HAY-thrum IK-kur aw THES-sum HEL-ga DE-gi.

VAY-tith OK-kur VIS-ku og STIRK,

BLES-sith LAN-dith og FOLK-ith.

MEY-yi THET-ta DIS-ting FIE-ra OK-kur frith og GNAYG-th.

English Translation:

Disir and ancestors,

We honor you on this sacred day.

Grant us wisdom and strength,

Bless the land and the people.

May this Disting bring us peace and abundance.

When reciting this prayer, remember that Icelandic pronunciation can be challenging for non-native speakers. The 'ð' sound (represented as 'th' in the pronunciation guide) is similar to the 'th' in "the," and the 'þ' sound is like the 'th' in "think." The rolled 'r' and the aspiration of certain consonants are also distinctive features of Icelandic pronunciation.

This prayer acknowledges the Disir (female ancestral spirits) and ancestors, which are important in Norse tradition. It asks for their blessings and honors the significance of Disting as a time of reflection and renewal.

No matter what tradition you cleave to in this time, it's also important to remember that there are many of our sisters and brothers who are incarcerated, and have difficulties celebrating this and other holidays in their tradition's calendar. Whatever we may think of what they've been incarcerated for, our role is neither to judge nor to play gatekeeper. 

With that in mind, if any might be interested in donating to fellow Pagans in need, or are willing to offer their time as volunteers, please reach out and we'll provide you with the information necessary to do so.

Blessaður Sé! (Blessed Be!)