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Loki Laufeyjarson
Trickster, shapeshifter, and the cause of—and solution to—Asgard’s greatest troubles. Famously known for his cunning and tricky nature, Loki is a Norse god who enjoys global popularity in not just entertainment media, but also amongst Norse Pagan spiritual circles. That’s right—Loki is still worshipped as a god in many parts of the world, including in the Nordic-Scandinavian countries from which he originates. While Loki himself is an old god, the term “Lokean Practice” is very new. Originating in North America sometime in the 1990’s, it is used to describe a form of neo-pagan practice that focuses on Loki and sometimes his family. People who follow this practice may call themselves Lokeans.
The specifics of this term, how it came about, and how Lokean practice is done, requires understanding the history of this deity and what he’s all about. So without further ado, it’s time we dive into a very important question…
Who is Loki Laufeyjarson?
Anyone who’s seen any Marvel movies are likely familiar with Tom Hiddleston’s portrayal of Loki. He’s a dashing, suave, and villainous figure constantly at odds with his brother Thor and the heroes of the world. If this is the Loki you’re familiar with, you may be surprised to learn this characterization is very different from the deity he’s inspired by.
Long before Christianity was brought to far-flung regions of Northern Europe, a group of societies collectively known as the Norse people venerated gods, ancestors, and spirits of the land and man-made dwellings. One of these figures was Loki, who began as a domestic spirit before developing into a full-fledged deity.
Loki Laufeyjarson is a clever, charismatic god known for his schemes and trickery. He’s a renowned shapeshifter who can turn into any sort of animal or person, and is known for regularly and willfully switching his gender. Like most tricksters, Loki’s actions are often morally ambiguous and highly transgressive, designed to push boundaries and test the status quo. He causes problems for the gods but also leaves them off better than before…after he’s cleaned up his mess, of course.
Stories about Loki can be found in Scandinavian oral tradition as well as many ancient texts found throughout Northern Europe. While Christianity became the dominant religion in Scandinavian countries, the stories of the gods were preserved and passed down from generation to generation. They and the Norse gods have found new life in neo-pagan movements all across the world within the past century.
Loki in the Modern-Day World
Loki is popular pretty much everywhere Norse Heathenry is practiced, including the Americas and different European countries. He’s taken on new roles as well as maintaining his old ones in modern times.
Trickster and Shapeshifter
Loki is still very much regarded as the same sneaky trickster and shapeshifter the old Norse took him for. His nature as a trickster doesn’t make him malicious by default, but some people might find his energy overwhelming. Like house parties, some people may enjoy Loki’s energy while others won’t.Subversion and deception are also still both part of Loki’s nature. Though he may be a god, Loki is like the rest of the Norse gods in that he isn’t a paragon of morality or virtuous behavior. But like the rest of the Norse gods, he’s known for benefiting those he likes and those who like him in turn.
LGBTQ+ Deity
Due to Loki’s frequent and voluntary gender-switching in Norse mythology, some modern-day Heathens and Lokeans consider Loki to be a genderqueer deity. He’s very popular amongst LGBTQ+ Norse pagans around the world for this reason… especially in Iceland, according to the Icelanders I’ve spoken to. Some pagans may refer to Loki with pronouns other than “he” out of respect for his gender-nonconformity, especially if he doesn’t always appear as a male deity to them.
Loki’s genderqueer nature is well-attested in many stories. Historically, this trait was considered “ragr,” which was a derogatory term for a feminine, submissive man. Today, Loki’s gender-nonconformity is something celebrated amongst Heathens.
Mover and Change-Maker
Loki is seen as an instigator of change. Many devotees of his have stories about how Loki got them out of stagnant and unfulfilling situations, simply by changing things up in their lives or by calling things into question. This has given Loki a reputation of being a “chaos” deity, which is neither wholly accurate nor inaccurate. Loki’s methods follow the same “house party” logic as the rest of him does: Whether someone finds him chaotic or exciting depends on the person. One thing’s for sure though—he’s certainly never boring!
So what is a ‘Lokean’?
As mentioned earlier, a Lokean is someone who works with, worships, and/or venerates the Norse god Loki, typically as a main deity. The term “Lokean” has two uses. The first describes patronage to Loki similar to saying “Lokisman” or “Odinswoman”, while the second implies a subcultural identity distinct from Heathenry. For this reason, not everyone who works with Loki may identify with the term Lokean or Lokean Heathen, and may opt to use “Heathen” or “Norse Pagan” instead.
The word “Lokean” originates in North America, growing out of controversy, superstition, and queerphobia sometime in the 1990’s.* Lokispeople were excluded from Heathen spaces and a division in the community occurred as a result. Whether “Lokean” was created by this division, or was simply propagated by it, is hard to say. Either way, it became something of its own identity as the years went by.Because its identity was separated from Heathenry in such a way, not all Lokeans think of themselves as Heathens; some may be Wiccan Lokeans, agnostic Lokeans, Left-hand Path Lokeans, or may otherwise work with Loki in a non-Heathen context. Lokean practice is unique in that it intersects with Heathenry at varying degrees.
What does Lokean Practice Look Like?
The only needed component of Lokean practice is Loki, so it can be whatever a Lokean would like it to be. Generally it’s marked by very typical staples of neo-Paganism, such as deity-work, offerings, holiday observances, and even creating an altar or sacred space for him. But again, this is all up to the practitioner and there’s no right or wrong way to venerate Loki. The purpose of this spiritual practice is to foster a relationship with Loki that feels fulfilling, so everything about it can and should be tailored to your needs.
Communicating with Loki
In Norse Paganism—and Lokean practice by extension—the gods aren’t mysterious and distant beings, nor are they only available to us after long-time dedication. We can interact with gods on a one-to-one basis without the need for mediators. Additionally, the relationships Lokeans form with Loki can be as various as the relationships that we have with each other. It doesn’t need to look a specific way to be genuine, nor does it need to have a Lord/Servant dynamic.
Altars and Offerings
Building an altar for Loki means carving out a space to serve as a place for him in your living environment. An altar can be large or small, plain or elaborate, prominent or subtle. Altars are not necessary to work with Loki, nor is he going to be upset if you can’t build one. If anything, this concept of “creating a space” for Loki doesn’t even have to be physical; the largest space I personally have for Loki is in my art and creative endeavors. It’s up to you to decide what feels right for you in your practice.Offering food and beverages to deities, including Loki, is also a process with a lot of variation. Some people choose to leave a bit of food on the altar before throwing it out or consuming it, while others eat offerings to give to deities. The purpose of the offering is to build further relations. Loki is a known food-lover so it’s hard to go wrong with him.
Devotional Acts
In pagan practice, devotional acts are used to build a relationship with a deity, as opposed to being something that glorifies a deity. Deity work is a collaboration, not a duty of servitude, so devotional acts are not meant to feel difficult, sacrificial, or obligatory, unless that is something you personally want and need in your practice.We can think of devotional acts similar to how we give gifts and do favors for each other, in that we do so out of appreciation and affection. Many Lokeans will consider acts of personal health a devotional act, since Loki wants his human friends to be happy and well. Other devotional acts can include creative endeavors such as art, music, and writing.
Incantation to Invoke Loki
"Loki, the Trickster, the Shapeshifter, hear our call
In the twilight of mystery, where shadows fall
We seek your cunning, your wit, your jest
Guide us through chaos, to the path that's best
Mischief-maker, rule breaker, we invite you now
With your laughter and your clever brow
Teach us the art of change and surprise
In your dance of fire, let wisdom arise
By the flame of transformation, we summon thee
In the riddle and the enigma, set our spirits free
Lend us your insight, your playful delight
To see beyond the veil of night
With gratitude, we offer our praise
For your presence and your mischievous ways
We honor your spirit in this sacred rite
Loki, be with us, in the darkness and light
We will call to you through laughter and play
In the echoes of joy, hear what we say
When you hear the call, come swift and fleet
Loki, Trickster, your presence we greet
Thank you, Loki, for your embrace
In the chaos, we find our place
Until we call again, in the dance of the new
We honor the journey, with gratitude true.'
Setting Up a Lokean Altar: A Guide to Honoring Loki
Setting up a Lokean altar is a personal and meaningful process for those who wish to honor Loki, the Norse god known for his complexity, mischief, and transformation. Whether you're new to Norse paganism or looking to deepen your practice, creating an altar dedicated to Loki can be a rewarding experience. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to set up a Lokean altar and what to include.
1. Choose the Right Space
Select a location for your altar that feels special and private to you. This could be a small table, a shelf, or even a designated corner in a room. Make sure it's a space where you can interact with the altar regularly and comfortably.
2. Symbols of Loki
Incorporate symbols that represent Loki and his multifaceted nature. These might include:
Snakes: Often associated with Loki, snakes symbolize both danger and transformation.
Foxes: Known for their cunning and trickery, foxes are another animal often linked to Loki.
Fire: As a symbol of change and chaos, fire represents Loki's unpredictable and transformative qualities.
3. Statues or Images
Place a statue or image of Loki on your altar. This can be a traditional depiction from Norse mythology or a more modern artistic interpretation. Choose something that resonates with your understanding of Loki.
4. Offerings
Offerings are a way to show respect and gratitude. Consider including:
Candles: Red, orange, or yellow candles can symbolize Loki's fiery nature.
Alcohol and Food: Mead, beer, or spicy foods are traditional offerings.
Personal Items: Objects that represent change or personal transformation in your life.
5. Ritual Tools
Include tools that you might use in rituals or meditations. This can be:
Athame or Wand: For directing energy and intentions.
Chalices: For holding offerings or ritual drinks.
Crystals: Such as carnelian or citrine, for their associations with creativity and transformation.
6. Personal Touches
Add personal items or decorations that reflect your relationship with Loki. These might include:
Journal or Notebook: For recording dreams, insights, or messages received during meditation.
Poetry or Writings: Include texts or poems that speak to Loki’s influence in your life.
Music or Instruments: If music is part of your practice, consider placing an instrument or sheet music on the altar.
7. Maintenance and Interaction
Regularly maintain your altar by dusting, changing offerings, and refreshing candles. Spend time at your altar, whether through meditation, prayer, or simply reflecting on Loki’s presence in your life.
By setting up a Lokean altar, you create a sacred space for honoring Loki and exploring the dynamic aspects of his character. This can foster a deeper understanding and connection to this intriguing deity within Norse mythology.
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Check out these Loki items, great for your altar:
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