The Galdrabók

The Galdrabók, like the subtitle says, is an Icelandic book of magic, as in a record of spells to use. The book's title is Icelandic for galdr and bók, so quite literally "magic book" although in Norse magic there are several words for magic depending on the type of magic. So galdr is magic but magic is not galdr. This book is a translation of an Icelandic book called the Galdrabók. In addition to the Galdrabók is a lengthy introduction to the book itself, with chapters on: Icelandic history, history of Icelandic magic, Icelandic books on magic, old gods, runes, and magic theory. I think Stephen Flowers should have mentioned sigil magic in addition to magical staves but it's okay. I never read the first edition of the author's published translation, not that I remember anyways, but the second edition is said to be better which makes sense given that's generally the purpose of new editions, aside from university textbooks but I won't get into those money mills.If you're new to the subject of magic, I want to start off by saying that grimoires are more like diaries or records of magical spells instead of being something divinely handed down by spirits, although there might be some claimed exceptions so maybe I'm wrong here but in general this seems to be the case. So this is not so much of a "how-to" book despite the instructions given in the book but more of a record. Those already familiar with the subject can use it as a how-to but they would likely just make new spells instead. So if you think, "why don't these work?" It is because it is not that straight-forward. Did they ever work at all? I wouldn't know. The Galdrabók's authors had traditions and sources before writing the manuscripts that would become this book. I also need to add that this book is not strictly Norse, by far actually, as there was already religious influences across northern Europe during this time. So books you should read in addition to this book are other medieval grimoires, maybe books on understanding the reasoning behind herbal magic as this could help if the author knows the background well, and books on Norse mythology, so this will help make a better understanding of this book.The only thing I don't like about this book is the book's small margins and small images. The text runs way too close to the top of the page and too close to the middle of the book. The spine of the book shows no title, it's just a blank spine. The format shows three spells per a page, I would have moved this to two or one per a page. This is a small book as it is so I don't know why the author designed this book as if there is paper shortage. Overall though, the book is printed well.

I've read through the text online but there's nothing quite like having a physical book. The size and ease of reading of the book is great, and will be ideal for referencing back to. I highly recommend it for anyone interested in Icelandic sorcery While the Galdrabók is a later medieval manuscript, it is nonetheless an example of how Norse magical practices evolved, and retains evidence of the syncretization of Heathen, Christian, Jewish, & Gnostic magical practices.

Love this book

I purchased this in hopes of a resourceful library of Icelandic staves/sigils. It doesn’t have an abundant amount, but surprisingly the historical information was very intriguing. It explains how Norse magic persevered and was influenced by Catholic and Protestant practices. A good read.

This edition seriously blew me away. I cannot describe how informative this book is and how easy it is to go through it so quickly!I appreciated the heavy detail on its history and the extensive information on all its magical aspects.If you are on the fence with ordering this, let me just reiterate how fascinating this book's information actually is, it will definitely surprise you and there is something in it for everyone!

I have studied the runes, the Norse traditions, and the modern faith of Asatru for over a decade and found this book to be positively invaluable to the serious student or practitioner. Don't waste time and money on new-age garbage, this is a TRUE GRIMOIRE worth its weight it gold! Like most volumes of this type there are judeo-christian elements but the real spirit remains. The syncretism and the proposed uses of the spells provide great insight into the lives of the people as well, and it is through this tangible connection to the living faith that the REAL magic happens!

Historical manuscript containing anything from pagan or heathen traditions are few and far between. If this subject interest you, this book is esstential to your collection and research.

I'm an Icelandic pagan and I wanted to practice according to my roots.