The Vikings did not see their formidable gods as the most important factor in success or failure. In their forays, they relied more on themselves and on fate. And the gods were honored just in case.
Nor did the Vikings look to their pantheon for moral bonds, nor did they expect the gods to punish transgressors.
Scientists from Uppsala University in Sweden came to this conclusion after analyzing Viking artifacts found by archaeologists and numerous ancient texts, including the Scandinavian epics "Elder Edda", "Younger Edda", as well as sagas and stories of travelers.
As scientists note, Thor, Odin and other Scandinavian gods are known even today, but it is rather difficult for them to find out what the Vikings really thought about them, and what value they gave to worship. Before the arrival of Christian missionaries and travelers, the inhabitants of Scandinavia transmitted their legends and beliefs only orally.
Sagas, poems and ballads that tell of the Scandinavian pantheon were recorded relatively late, between the 12th and 14th centuries. They were written down by Christians or people who came into contact with Christians.
"Therefore, it is difficult to say to what extent the ancient sagas were subjected to Christian editing, and how Christian values were colored in Scandinavian legends,"
- note the scientists in their study.
However, in combination with archaeological finds, the ancient epics and sagas suggest that the Vikings were still sure that supernatural beings were watching them. But the Viking gods are no longer the gods of modern religions. They were not omnipotent and immortal.
Promotional video:
Furthermore, they were not particularly concerned about upholding moral standards or punishing people who violated them.
The Vikings also believed in a number of supernatural powers not associated with a deity. Among them were elves, dwarves, ogres, trolls and giants, each of whom could intervene in the affairs of people along with the gods. At the same time, the ancient Scandinavians took into account the influence of supernatural forces. They did not worship them, but they still thought it wise not to anger anyone.
"This points to a belief system that is completely different from most modern world religions," the scientists note.