Wisdom

It is best for man to be middle-wise,
Not over cunning and clever:
The learned man whose lore is deep
Is seldom happy at heart.
--The Havamal

The above quoted stanza is one of the first words of wisdom that I ahve taken from the Lore that has stuck with me. I think it has a couple pithy meanings. First, I think it says that modesty is a virtue to be taken seriously. The man who is middle-wise has shortcomings, and if he has such short comings, he should be more ready to accept limitations. Such limitations are what make us human. They are also what helps form kindred and community: once we realize we are not capable of being completely self-sufficient uebermenschen, we come to realize that reliance upon others is a necessity for a long, fruitful, and meaningful life. From what I have gathered thus far in my studies is that Asatru is about building kindred and community. We rely upon our Folk for guidance and strength. The family, the tribe, and community is sacred and the source of our strength. Without that, we are nothing. From our realization that we cannot be completely independent, despite independence being one of the Nine Noble Virtues, comes the source of strength.

I believe the passage also notes that intelligence can be dangerous. This is very applicable in our world. All sources of power are corruptable. The warrior could use his sword for noble deeds just as easily as villanous ones. The wise one can use his knowledge to help his community, but he can also use it to take advantage of those around him, which will always led to the ruin of the kindred and himself. In our modern era, this holds ever true. In a world where our great minds have created devastating weapons that could destroy the world over dozens of times, one questions whether that keen intellect was truly wise.

Finally, I believe it says something about our happiness. There is truth in the old maxim: "Ignorance in bliss." Knowledge, as I noted above, can be dangerous. It can lead to pain and suffering. Sometimes it can lead to fear. That fear can often lead to brash action. Brash action can lead to pain.

That last stanza sounds far too much like the teachings of a certain Jedi master.