Heitstrenging at Yule-evening is described in the prose of Helgakviða Hjörvarðssonar, involving placing one's hands on the bristles of the sónargöltr and drinking of the bragarfull: In Old Norse, the term heitstrenging or heit-strenging ('the swearing of a solemn vow') is derived from the verb 'heit-strengja' ('to vow'), in turn formed from the joining of heit ('a solemn vow') and the verb strengja ('to string', 'to fasten'). While originally containing heathen religious components such as prayers and worship of gods such as Freyr and Thor, the practice continued in an altered manner after the Christianisation of Scandinavia.Ĭlose similarities have been noted between heitstrengingar and Anglo-Saxon oath-swearing and boasting practices such as the beot, with both involving promises to accomplish tasks that would bring great honour if achieved. The oath-swearing practice varied significantly, sometimes involving ritualised drinking or placing hands on a holy pig (referred to as a sónargöltr) that could later be sacrificed. They were often performed at Yule and other large social events, where they played a role in establishing and maintaining good relationships principally between members of the aristocratic warrior elite. heitstrengingar) is an Old Norse term referring to the swearing of a solemn oath to perform a future action. Halfdan Egedius: Illustration for Olav Trygvasons saga (1899) Term for "oath swearing" in Old Norse Earl Sigvaldi swearing an oath to conquer Norway at the memorial feast of Harald Bluetooth.
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