The Figure of Holda, Through the Ages
One of the most frequent associations with winter in heathenry is the Wild Hunt. But who is the leader of the Wild Hunt? Could it be Odin, or perhaps a more female host? You may have heard the names Perchta, Hulle, Holda, Berchta, and many other variations. Sometimes she is even called “Frau Gode,” suggesting she is Odin’s wife. Many scholars argue she is an all-mother goddess from the Proto-Indo Europeans. Holda comes from the Proto-Germanic "hulþaz" meaning "favourable, gracious, or loyal." And if we look at the Grimm’s Fairy Tale “Mother Holle” we see that she rewards those who are humble and loyal, and punishes those who act contrary to these ideals. It seems in particular that she dislikes greedy or lazy people. Mother Holle is associated with snow. When her quilt is shaken, it snows in the world. And some say Holda is associated with the first snowfall in particular. But is she a goddess or some sort of spirit who rewards hard work? Holda is associated with...