Nithing pole facts for kids
A Nithing pole was a special kind of pole used a long, long time ago in Scandinavia and by people with Germanic pagan beliefs. It was like a magical tool used to put a curse on enemies or people who had done something wrong. People believed it could bring bad luck or shame to someone.
The word "Nithing" meant a very cowardly or dishonorable person. And "Nith" was the terrible shame or dishonor that person felt.
What Was a Nithing Pole?
A Nithing pole was usually a wooden pole. The most striking part was often a horse's head placed on top of it. Sometimes, the head of another animal might be used instead. People would also carve special words or symbols, called runes, into the wood of the pole. These carvings were part of the curse.
Why Was It Used?
People in ancient times believed strongly in magic and curses. A Nithing pole was used to target someone who was considered a "Nithing." This could be someone who broke a promise, acted like a coward, or was an enemy. The goal was to bring them great misfortune or public shame. It was a way to get revenge or scare someone into doing what was right.
How Did It Work?
The ritual of making a Nithing pole was quite dramatic. First, a horse's head would be cut off. Then, it was placed on top of the pole. The person making the pole would carve powerful cursing words or runes into the wood. They would then point the pole towards the home of the person they wanted to curse. People believed that the spirits of the land or other magical forces would then carry the curse to the target. It was meant to cause them bad luck, illness, or even death. It also created a lot of fear and public shame for the person being cursed.
