
The Draugadrottin bindrune is used to venerate Odin’s form as “Lord of the Undead,” or as I see it, “Lord of the Twice Born.” This is a shamanic form of Odin; one that walks between the veil of worlds. Draugadrottin is a master of death, but also a conductor of new and improved life. Therefor, by taking the form of Draugadrottin, we can achieve and conjure visions of death for our spiritual benefit and development; while also traveling to other realms without needing a physical death of the body. This form (or energy) of Odin is less emphasized by the aspects of fury and “madness,” as is the case with the Wōdaz or Wōdanaz archetype, but more-so steeped in meditation, sacrifice, and the traveling between the different realms of existence.
However, Draugadrottin keeps strong the Wodenic archetype of the Wanderer. This old, wise, and powerful wizard -like incarnation stays consistent in this form; although holding a more Necromantic and dreary ambience. He brings us the secrets of death in order to bring us into a second, more enlightened existence. I like to imagine Draugadrottin clad in bones, reeking of death, and quite ethereal in appearance. This archetype is a physical manifestation of death, and it brings the associated secrets to the thirsty living; allowing us passage between worlds. Draugadrottin is a force of resurrection and restored life-force, a rejuvenation of the Shamanic spirit.

This face of Odin is Vampyric in spirit; surviving off the energies of humans, creatures, and the forces of nature it encounters. Draugadrottin feeds and absorbs powers from all directions of the wind; from everything that surrounds it. The stronger a person or creatures life force is, the more Draugadrottin will try and absorb it; incorporating it into its’ power and ability. This absorption will aid the shaman in his journey, and all powers he absorbs will replace weaker ones within himself; cultivating the soul and quality of the one who has “Willed to Power.”

My personal vision of Draugadrottin is as shown; sitting upon his throne accompanied by his two ravens. On his hat (the classic witches or wizards hat) is an exaggerated death rune. This rune consists of a central Mannaz rune with inverted Algiz and Ansuz runes as its’ legs; symbolizing the death of the self, the blood, and the spirit. He holds a skull adorned by the Draugadrottin bindrune, which he uses to transport between worlds and drink wisdom from.
His vampyric elements are highly exaggerated to show his darker extreme; a distant shadow of his Asgardian or Apollonian form. In this Draugadrottin form, he is uninterested in order and the affairs of justice; only with the ethereal existence of the wandering “death celebrant.” Like the Aghori of India, the devotee of Draugadrottin will worship death in order to celebrate life; and gain its’ secrets. In this form, the “darker” areas of spirituality are mirrored and revered in higher regard than the “lighter” areas. Adversity hails as high as honor, and comfort is frowned upon. The wanderer must never become stagnant in his quest for knowledge.
This type of Odinic devotion is difficult (and almost impractical) to procure year round; unless your lifestyle and goals allow such a thing. However, a year or two of this type of devotion is very beneficial; if practiced zealously and vigorously. Even if you cannot dedicate a years energy (or lifetime) to this form it can be beneficial to add into your spiritual cycle; or to use strictly for circumstantial magical purposes. The fall and winter are good times to emulate this Draugadrottin force, and to attempt to walk between the worlds of existence.
Draugadrottin can be deceptive at times, which makes this form a difficult one to venerate for long periods of time. However, if skilled enough, you can manage this uncertain and unpredictable treachery; using it to your advantage and enjoyment. Use the chaotic impulses for art, music, and creation; instead of lashing out at the world around you in destructive or ignorant ways. If we allow the chaotic “madness” of Odin to consume us, it becomes very difficult and dangerous to overcome and recover from; if one ever does…

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