The Völva's Staff: Symbolism and Significance

Philip Lufolk is a blacksmith in Storvik, Sweden inspired by the archeology & mythology of Scandinavia. We begin on the role of the Viking blacksmith & how bog iron was processed.  Philip describes objects & jewelry that he forges based on historical artifacts: the seeress' völva staff; a charm known as a Thor's hammer; a landowner's Viking key; and oath rings inscribed with law. We switch to mythology with the tale of Mjölnir [Thor's hammer] & the rest of the gods' treasures, fashioned by the industrious & highly-skilled dwarves. Then there's the vengeful blacksmith, Völund. We discuss burial mounds & rock art: picture stones, rune stones & a petroglyph just outside of Oslo's city center. Approaching the end Philip tells an archaic divination technique called Årsgång or "The Year Walk."

Follow Lufolk on Instagram and check out his wares at Lufolk.com.

Reading excerpts from The Viking Spirit: An Introduction to Norse Mythology & Religion by Daniel McCoy

Music provided by Lyre of the Crossroads

"Sigurd and Fafnir'"
Written & Performed by Lyre of the Crossroads

"Bass Jouhikko / Basssharpa / Bass Tagelharpa"
Written & Performed by Lyre of the Crossroads

"Helm of Awe"
Written & Performed by Lyre of the Crossroads

"Talharpa/Tagelharpa/Stråkharpa"
Written & Performed by Lyre of the Crossroads

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