What Is Odenism and How Does It Relate To Delphi Murders?

Sep 25, 2023, 05:00 PM

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Could a misunderstood ancient religion be the key to unraveling the Delphi murder case?
In a recent episode of "Hidden Killers," Tony Brueski delves into the perplexing Delphi murder case with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott. The conversation centers around the arrest of Richard Allen and the potential involvement of a group practicing Odinism, an ancient Norse religion. But as the details unfold, the lines between pop culture, white supremacy, and genuine religious beliefs become increasingly blurred.
 
 "Odinism is what is in question," Brueski states, highlighting the defense's claim of a potential cover-up involving those guarding Richard Allen. He admits, "I've not known anything about Odinism," despite its Norse origins. Scott elaborates on the recent resurgence of Odinism in pop culture, attributing its popularity to TV shows like "Vikings." However, she points out a concerning trend: "The white supremacist movement did kind of latch on... to this pagan Norse God kind of thing."
 
 The conversation takes a turn when Brueski questions the attraction of extremist groups to ancient religions. Scott suggests that such groups often seek a sense of belonging and identity. "They reject traditional Christianity and Judaism... and they've just attached to this idea that they're somehow closer affiliated with the Norse gods," she explains. The influence of TV shows, she believes, can't be underestimated, especially on "weak-minded people."
 
 But how does this relate to the Delphi murder case? The defense's narrative suggests a ritualistic killing connected to Odinism. Brueski, taken aback by the term "sacrificial killing," asks Scott about the plausibility of such claims. Scott is skeptical: "I do think we would know... if there had been multiple murders committed by a pagan religious group or Odinists... This has never even been speculative before."
 
 Scott further questions the defense's strategy, suggesting that the introduction of Odinism might be a desperate attempt to introduce doubt. "Is this something that we really need to be looking into? Apparently, we need to look into it, but the odds are, in my view, that this is... another creative defense attorney trying to come up with something that's pretty indefensible," she opines.
 
 The episode concludes with both Brueski and Scott pondering the implications of the defense's claims. While the connection between Odinism, white supremacy, and the Delphi murder case remains tenuous, it's clear that the trial will be closely watched, with many awaiting answers to the myriad of questions raised.
 
 As the lines between ancient religions, pop culture, and criminal defense blur, one must wonder: How will the Delphi murder case reshape our understanding of these intersections?
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