Snorta: Diplomacy, Frigga Handmaiden

 At her hall of Fensalir, Frigga, the Norse All-Mother, has twelve Handmaidens (Note 1) or ladies-in-waiting to attend to Her. Not much is known about who these Handmaidens were since the Lore is scanty about Norse Goddesses in general. Much of what is known today is by Group Verified Gnosis.

 

Snorta in brief

Wise and prudent, Snotra encourages basic civility and courtesy towards others. She understands why there exists rules of conduct. Snotra can be regarded as the Goddess of Diplomats.

 

Snorri Sturluson writes in the Gylfaginning, “Snotra, who is wise and courtly. After her, men and women who are wise are called Snotras.” In his writing, Snorri stresses this Goddess’ sound decision-making and clear judgment. Hence, Snorta presides over the rules that govern good-behavior within societies. Therefore, a “snorta” is someone who has self-control and possess civility. In fact, a snorta could be thought of as a mediator.

 

Among the Gods, Snorta mediates disputes and offers diplomatic solutions. Besides Frigga, Snorta is also a Frithweaver. As with the All-Mother, this Goddess is known as the Lady of Frith. Although Frigga is better known as the Peace-keeper, Snorta also engages with feuding parties to establish a truce.

 

“Frith,” in Norse Paganism, is “peace based on mutual trust and respect.” Moreover, honorable deeds are a part of frith. This concept encompasses kinship, bonds between people living in communities, and relations between people and their Gods. (Note 2) Frith can be regarded as piety since it relates to keeping the relations between individuals, communities, and the Gods fruitful.

 

Because of Snorta’s importance in frith-weaving, modern Norse Pagans think of Her as a symbol of female empowerment. Since She makes astute judgements, She is also revered for her intellectual prowess. These qualities make Snorta a powerful Goddess, in her own right.

 

Prayers to Snorta will result with knowledge of the proper course of action in a situation. Moreover, her prayers are answered by self-restraint and prudence. With today’s world of information overwhelming people, Snorta will guide them through it. To those who desire it, She offers thoughtful analysis and responsible use of knowledge.

 

Notes:

Note 1. Saga (seer), Eir (healer), Gefjun (unmarried girls), Fulla (plenty), Sjofn (love), Lofn (forbidden love), Var (oaths), Vor (wisdom), Syn (truth), Hlin (protector), Snorta (diplomacy), Gna (travelers).

 

Note 2. A “frithgarth” or “frithstead” is an area dedicated to the Gods, Ancestors, and Wights.