Self Reliance

[bobthesane]

actually find the idea of a Jesus-watches-over-me kind of creepy.

LOL "Call the cops, Jahweh's at the window again watching me brush mah teeth!"

But seriously, the lengths people take it to show an incredible lack of comprehension on the nature of frith, and inner-yards. Close, personal relationships were the purview of your inner-yard. So... by placing so much onto a deity, it can be argued that the person is neglecting their own inner. Likewise, they are making claims of that god, claims that practically declare they are forcing the god to do their will. The gods have their own inner-yard. We aren't in it, nor should we be. Inner-yards are small, of necessity and by the very nature of their being.

[Friendly_Viking]

Again though, as was said above: why would you ask the gods for something when your ancestors actually care about you on a personal level? Sure, if it makes you feel better, ask Thor for personal protection, there's no harm in that. But you may find better results if you also beseech those who have an interest in your well-being.

 
One more thing about asking ancestors for help, protection, etc. How does one actually do it? is there a certain way to do it? How do you do it?

Thanks

[bobthesane]

One more thing about asking ancestors for help, protection, etc. How does one actually do it? is there a certain way to do it? How do you do it?

Thanks

 
Most people that I know will make an offering of an ancestor's favored food or drink, or other consumable item such as tobacco.

Keep in mind the "3 up, 3 down rule": most people only really have a reasonable chance of knowing, and being known by, 3 generations above ground and 3 below. So while I may certainly beseech the great Disir and Alfar of me line (for example, I've been known to hail my great-great-grandfather who was a cavalry officer in the Civil War), I could only reasonably expect back to my great-grandfather to really know me personally.

Beyond that, the great ancestors will know me by my works. Did my actions further the family fortunes? Did I increase our luck? Did I enhance (or possibly repair) our family reputation? They will take less personal interest and more familial regard, whereas my grandmother I could possibly expect to act in my personal interest over that of the family (assuming the two were in conflict), provided that does not cause any great harm to the family line overall. It is up to me, though, to try and ensure that my personal interests align with those of my family and tribe.

[Friendly_Viking]

Most people that I know will make an offering of an ancestor's favored food or drink, or other consumable item such as tobacco.

Keep in mind the "3 up, 3 down rule": most people only really have a reasonable chance of knowing, and being known by, 3 generations above ground and 3 below. So while I may certainly beseech the great Disir and Alfar of me line (for example, I've been known to hail my great-great-grandfather who was a cavalry officer in the Civil War), I could only reasonably expect back to my great-grandfather to really know me personally.

Beyond that, the great ancestors will know me by my works. Did my actions further the family fortunes? Did I increase our luck? Did I enhance (or possibly repair) our family reputation? They will take less personal interest and more familial regard, whereas my grandmother I could possibly expect to act in my personal interest over that of the family (assuming the two were in conflict), provided that does not cause any great harm to the family line overall. It is up to me, though, to try and ensure that my personal interests align with those of my family and tribe.

That was helpful, thank you!