Harp

In every religion there stands out an instrument that is seen as the most sacred, as the one that is used to invoke the Gods or recite the sacred poetry. For us this is the harp or the lyre. It is mentioned in many sources as having a magical ability to create emotion and move people to impossible deeds. It is the instrument of the skald, and is one that can and should be employed in our modern practice. Here are some of the sources for the use of the harp:

“There on a hall sat,
striking a harp,
the giantess’ watch,
the joyous Eggther.”

-Voluspa 37

“I had gone
yet once again
to Geirmundr,
to prepare a banquet.
The brave king began 
to strike the harp;
for the prince
of noble race
hoped that I 
might come to his aid.

“I heard it
from Hlesey
how there the harp-strings
sang of trouble.”

-Oddrunargratr 29-30

“He seized a harp,
the warrior king
displayed his skill, 
his foot-branches 
sweetly touched 
and moved the harp-strings:
that art had not been practiced,
save by the king’s son.

“Then Gunnar sang
in these strains:
the harp gained a voice,
as if it had been a man:
not a sweeter sound yet,
had it been a swan;
the hall of serpents
echoed to the golden strings.

-Gunnars Slagr 2-3

“No one was a more expert harpist or lute player (than Hodr), as well as which he was dexterous in the whole art of psaltery, lyre and fiddle. By performing in different modes he could excite in men’s breasts whatever emotions he wished, joy, sorrow, pity, or hatred, and by delighting or dismaying their ears could capture their minds.”

-Saxo bk. 3