ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Anglo-Saxon paganism

Anglo-Saxon paganism is a type of religion that people in England used to practice a really long time ago, before Christianity became popular there. It was a different way of understanding the world and how it worked, and the people who practiced it believed in many different gods and goddesses.

These gods and goddesses were said to have special powers and responsibilities. For example, there was a god named Thor who was really strong and could control lightning and thunder. There was also a goddess named Freyja who was in charge of love and fertility.

People who followed Anglo-Saxon paganism believed that these gods and goddesses could help them in their daily lives. They would make offerings and sacrifices to them, like food or weapons, in the hopes of gaining their favor and blessings.

Anglo-Saxon paganism also included things like magic and rituals. For example, people might make special charms or spells to protect themselves from harm or to bring them good luck. They might also have certain ceremonies or celebrations to honor the gods and goddesses.

Today, most people in England practice different religions like Christianity or Islam, and very few people still believe in Anglo-Saxon paganism. However, it is still an important part of the history and culture of England, and people continue to study and learn about it.