Seaxnēat Sword God of the Saxons


Seaxnēat or Saxnot is a sword god or war god of the Saxons. Seaxnēat’s name is usually interpreted as “sword-companion”, or more precisely “companion of the long knife”. We know that Seaxnēat is specifically a Saxon god, but we know little else about him. In two Old English king lists, Seaxnēat appears as the founder of the royal line of Essex as the son of Odin, with his name spelled Seaxnēat.

There has been a lot of speculation about Seaxnēat. Since we know so little about this Saxon God. Scholars have suggested that he is Tyr or possibly Odin. However, he has been specifically mentioned alongside there two Gods. While others argue Seaxnēat is Freyr. Some credit Seaxnēat as the creator of the world and Lord of Yggdrasil. This would put him squarely in Odin’s seat, but because the written record is sparse at best, this is not likely true. However, Seaxnēat most likely held a high place with the Saxon tribes.

As a Heathen I can assure you Seaxnēat is a God and not an archetype for another deity. Seaxnēat is the “God of the family or tribe”. Seaxnēat is the father of the Saxons, who wants his people to be strong, so that the exchange of gifts between god and men may be reestablished. In this role he a kingship god, but also a god of the working people, ruling over daily affairs. Seaxnēat is the path back to the tribe and protector of the family.

Seaxnēat as the founder god, responsible for the basic features of Saxon culture and ethics or þēaw (thew). In this role of keeping þēaw he can be linked to the language, music, storytelling, and the keeper of tribal tradition. Seaxnēat is a war god who uses war as a means for peace for his people. He also rules over allegiance, oaths and any social ties between his people.

Seaxnēat was depicted as riding on a white horse, wielding a sword and wearing a helmet in the shape of a boar’s head. The boar’s tusks were pointed skyward, giving the impression that he wore a “horned helmet”. The Bárhelm Þeod holds Seaxnēat in high regard alongside Woden, Thor, and Freyja. He is our tribal protector and High God of the Tribe.

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