Lessons from the Havamal

The following is a list of host/guest responsibilities mentioned in the first chapter of the Havamal, 1 - 80. I have been asked a few times, what does the Havamal say about being a good host and a good guest. The first thing I always recommend is that they read the Havamal themselves. But I will always share a few of the following to give them a head start. I have found the following information to be very helpful in my life, and I hope it works well for you as well.

1.     How to be a good host.

a.     Take a guests coat and ask them to sit.

b.    Offer a guest a drink and food when they arrive.

c.     Make a guest comfortable and ensure they know they are welcome.

d.    In the winter months it is important for a host to make sure the guest is warm and dry.

e.     The host should listen to their guests and be charitable within their means.

f.      Meals do not need to lavish; a small gesture can mean a lot. Sharing a simple meal and a modest bottle of mead can cement a friendship.

g.     The hosts home should always be clean and neat.

h.    Avoid arguing with a guest, but do not let them harm you or others guests.

i.       Help a guest to your best ability.

j.       A great person is known by their ability to share, mot by how much they can horde. 

2.     How to be a good guest.

a.     When you travel, always keep your wits about you and always be polite.

b.    When you are a guest, remember to answer questions but never talk to much.

c.     The guest should avoid talking non-stop. Unrestrained blabbering can get one into a lot of trouble.

d.    Avoid drinking too much alcohol when you are a guest, always keep your good sense about you.

e.     Avoid overeating when you are a guest at someone’s home.

f.       Never talk bad about someone when you are a guest in someone’s home.

g.     The wise guest leaves early when people start arguing or slinging insults.

h.    Always wash before leaving for a friend’s home.

i.     It is a good idea to have something to eat before going to visit a friend. You should never show up a friends home and start asking for things.

j.       Do not outstay your welcome as a guest.

k.     When you can, bring a simple gift when visiting someone.

l.       Guests should wake up early and work hard to help their host.

m.  Always keep a neat and tidy appearance when you go out to visit a friend.

n.    Avoid being early or too late.

o.    You will find yourself welcome when you give more than you take.