Svantovit

Svantovit

Strong Lord

ORIGIN:

Slavic

Svantovit, spirit of war and victory, was revered by Balts and Slavs alike and petitioned for abundance, protection, and military success. He is a spirit of prophecy. A sacred white horse, kept in his temple, served as Svantovit’s oracle. The horse was led through lanes of upright spears. If he did not knock over any spears, the oracle was favourable. Svantovit also delivers oracles via divination dice. Post-Christianity, Svantovit was identified with Saint Vitus.

MANIFESTATION:

Svantovit has four faces, gazing in different directions.

ATTRIBUTES:

Drinking horn, bow and arrows, sword

Sacred site:

Rügen Island in the Baltic Sea—Svantovit was venerated in the beech groves on the island.

OFFERINGS:

Beverages including mead and foods, including a special honey cake the size of a man

SEE ALSO:

Herta

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses – Written by : Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.