Hail Odin

White Wandering Visitor
In Northern Europe, commemorated was what is known as the Wild Hunt, during which Odin and his Valkyries and other spirit beings cross stormy Winter skies.

In anticipation of the Wild Hunt, in many places people would put out food or treats for Odin and for his eight-legged steed, Sleipnir.

Centuries later, before retiring to bed and in anticipation of his visit, children would come to leave out treats for Santa Claus and his reindeer.

Prior to the early 20th Century when ad campaigns created our modern popular image of Santa Claus, he was sometimes portrayed as slimmer with a flowing beard, wearing a broadbrimmed hat, and a cloak that was often blue rather than red.

The earlier Santa was shown riding a horse in more illustrations than he was riding in a sleigh.

In the guise of the wanderer, Odin is often shown with a white beard and wearing a blue cloak and a wide brimmed hat.

Odin was among the various Deities especially honored during this season.

In some areas, among his many other names, he was called Jolnir, Jolfudr, Julfadr, each of which translates into modern English as Yule Father.

In some countries the character we call Santa is known as Father Christmas. In the lore Odin is known to wander throughout the Nine Realms, including this our Midgard or Middle Earth.

His visits were usually in disguise. Those who hospitably welcomed him didn’t know their guest was none other than the Allfather.

Some have identified the spirit of the wandering Odin as an inspiration for what eventually came to be our modern Santa Claus.

We honor Odin and benefit ourselves when we emulate him in the pursuit of this quest in our own lives.