Within medieval culture, there is much talk about the existence of the Vikings, a people of Nordic origin and very superstitious, which is why they used many talismans and Viking symbols, containing supposed magical powers, which kept them protected in battles, scared away spirits and other evil creatures, and also to have success in business, in love, among others.
viking symbols
Viking culture is filled with the existence of mystical symbols, which are recorded in stones called runes, many others are engraved on battle shields, and even in several of the inscriptions that the ancient Norse carved in various regions of the ancient Europe.
These Viking symbols were used as a way to represent religion and faith, since through them, they invoked several of their gods and even many of the names of these symbols were placed in honor of their deities. In general, both these symbols and talismans were used as an element of protection against enemies.
Today, most of these Viking symbols are used as tattoo designs, and several of them remain to this day, being considered by the church as pagan symbols. Within the meaning of the Viking symbols, they were related to the way in which this culture or these peoples represented their ordinary life and also the supernatural world in which they faithfully believed.
Within the characteristics of these Viking symbols we have that they were used for magical and religious purposes, but also for protection in times of war and fight against enemies, in addition to celebrating victories, invoking the gods for luck and love. Currently, these symbols serve as decorations, preserving their mystery, magic and aesthetics.
These symbols, like others within Celtic culture, are composed of various geometric shapes, which produce an almost hypnotic effect, captivating the viewer's attention. Another characteristic of these Viking symbols is their intellectual significance, imbued with a profound intuitive meaning and deep ancestral meaning. If you are interested in symbols, you can also learn about Mayan symbols.
Who are the Vikings?
The Vikings are a people originating from the Scandinavian peninsula. Among their most outstanding features are that they are great warriors and sailors. It is said that during the XNUMXth century they were responsible for terrorizing all of Europe.
The different Viking groups were participants in a vision of the traditional world of the ancient peoples. Like other groups of communities of Nordic origin, the Vikings maintained a polytheistic pagan or animist vision, before the great monotheistic religions originated and spread.
With the arrival of the doctrine of Christianity, most of the native beliefs of these peoples were displaced, although some remained in popular culture and tradition. And it was thanks to these groups that preserve these traditions, which have been made known from generation to generation and from region to region, all over the world, where they have brought Nordic paganism.
The runes as viking symbols and alphabet
The runes are the letters that are part of the Viking alphabet or also known as the runic alphabet, which was designed by the Nordic peoples to communicate. In the British Isles and the regions of Scandinavia, this alphabet was used to make writings in the Germanic language.
This Viking alphabet or runic alphabet was used in ancient times, maintaining its use during the Middle Ages. But by the XNUMXth century, its use had lost interest and it was only used to make ornaments and calendars.
The Viking Futhark Alphabet
As has been pointed out, part of the Viking symbols is the alphabet, and this over time underwent different variations, one of them and the most used by the Vikings being the so-called Futhark alphabet.
Among its characteristics was that the letters of the Futhark alphabet or the runes were represented by boulders (fragments of polished stone), or in pieces of wood and stone. Today, this type of Viking runes are used as a method of prediction or omen, like runic calendars.
Another characteristic that the Futhark alphabet has is that, according to Nordic symbology, it contains a mystery regarding the rudimentary appearance of its letters, which are said to contain secrets and many believe they are true.
the tapestry of fate
Within Norse mythology, there are female spirits known as the Norns , who weave the tapestries of destiny in the lives of men and women. These tapestries are also considered Viking symbols.
These spirits, or Norns, are three: Urd, Skuld, and Verdandi , who weave the life of every person, man or woman, with the threads of the past, present, and future. Upon close and detailed observation of each of these tapestries, one can see that all the Viking runes, or letters, are present within them.
The meaning of this Viking symbol lies in its connection to the past, present, and future. It is said that the Norns dwell within the roots of the tree of life, Yggdrasil , which is itself another mystical symbol.
the viking letters
In certain letters and words contained in the Viking Futhark alphabet, the legacy left by the ancient Vikings is still preserved, despite the passage of time. This knowledge speaks about the existence of a people full of legends, rituals and divinities, which are described through Viking letters.
One of the most important writings in the history of mythology is the Hávamál , a text that expresses wisdom and was attributed to the god Odin , inhabitant of Valhalla , a famous castle where dead warriors were taken by the valkyries , female spirits in the service of said god.
Below is an illustrative image of the Viking letters and their equivalence in the conventional alphabet, with the intention of showing more clearly what is being talked about.
the drakkar, Viking ship
Within the Viking symbols is also the Drakkar, one of the most well-known warships and one of its most distinctive characteristics is that it has a dragon's head on its bow.
In addition to this, this famous ship was used for trade and was one of the vessels used in the Viking ritual of the journey to the afterlife. According to tradition, the bodies of the deceased were transported on this ship to the afterlife while the vessel burned. The Lang Ship, Knar , and Snekkar were also other Viking ships.
shields as Symbols
Other Viking symbols are their colorful shields, as they stand out for their designs, shapes and colors. Among its characteristics we find that there is a wide variety of models, some round and robust, but at the same time they are quite light.
They also have a defensive function, so it is usual to see them during fierce battles and, like other objects in mythology, they contain great symbolism.
The Nordic symbology as decoration of the shields
Generally, the shields of the Vikings were painted and decorated with colors in very bright tones. There were also designs with lighter colors, one of the most used being aquamarine.
Among the shapes and motifs were swastikas, triskeles, spirals and crosses, geometric shapes that made up the different designs. In the same way, in many the figures of animals such as eagles, wolves, ravens, dragons, among others, were used, arranged in a very stylized way. Also some runes were part of the decoration of the shields.
types of viking shields
Within the Viking symbols, different types of shields are found, most used to defend themselves in battle, and for this reason, they were round in shape, and built with linden or fir wood material.
Its measurements were between 60 and 70 centimeters, which were used mostly inside ships. There were also some that were part of the funerary attire, known as tribute shields, measuring 90 centimeters in diameter.
round shields
The majority of Viking shields were round in shape, a quality that until now is not known why this preference, instead of the kite-shaped ones. What is clear is that the use of the circle was used to represent a whole. These shields were reinforced in their central part, made of iron material and bulky.
As in other cases, these shields used designs with bright colors for decoration and to facilitate the intentions of each participant or opponent during battles. An example of this was that for war, the representative colors were black and red, while to denote peace, it is white.
Thor's Shield Knot
The shield knot, also known as Thor's shield knot , is a widely used Viking symbol of protection. It appears in various cultures and traditions. This protective symbol, shaped like a solar cross, is associated with designs from other cultures, such as Chinese and Celtic.
This knot has been well known thanks, in part to the film industry and partly thanks to the passage of stories from person to person over the years.
Viking symbols of war and strength
Given the characteristics of the Viking people, it was not surprising that they had numerous Viking symbols representing warriors and strength. When going into battle, Viking groups always carried a banner called a Merki at the head of their troops.
They also used a special triangular flag, called the Gunnefane , when going to war. Its design depicted a raven, the bird of the god Odin . Tradition held that if the raven fluttered happily and opened its beak several times, it was a good omen. However, if it remained motionless, it meant the warriors would lose the battle.
The aegishjalmur or ægishjálmur
The aegishjalmur or ægishjálmur stands out among Viking war symbols. According to Viking beliefs, this symbol of strength provided them with protection and also served to frighten enemies during battle.
This warrior symbol of Icelandic origin was painted on the face of the fighters, specifically between the eyes, and great magical powers were attributed to it, which is why it was known as the mask of terror.
Today, many people get this symbol of protection tattooed to identify themselves and also recognize themselves as members of the Ásatrú religion , who are faithful to the doctrines of Germanic paganism.
The Hraethigaldur and the Ottastafur
The Hraethigaldur and the Ottastafur were Viking warrior symbols used to terrify enemies in battle. These symbols were carved or painted on weapons and shields to frighten the opponent.
The mere fact of carrying this symbol inspired value and courage in those who wore it, and at the same time terror in the opponent, this meant that it fulfilled its function for Viking battles. 
The gungnir or terrible spear
The gungnir , also known as the terrible spear, is a representation of the spear of the god Odin . It is another symbol of Viking power, which was painted on the tips of spears and harpoons to ensure they always hit their target.
It is said that this spear was forged by the dwarves especially for the god Odin . This weapon possessed the attribute of always hitting its target, and of returning to the god's hand after being thrown. The spear Gungnir is a mystical symbol linked to the god Odin and distinguishes him as the god of war.
The Vegvísir: the Viking compass
The Vegvísir was one of the Viking symbols considered the Viking compass, as it was believed to guide sailors during storms. This symbol holds a mystery: when opened, its arms unfurl in all directions, similar to a compass rose. This design remains particularly prominent in shamanic cultures.
This symbol appears in the Icelandic book Galdrabók , a grimoire or book of magic, dating from around 1.600. It is often confused with the Aegishjalmur . Its characteristics include being a runic pattern.
Its origin is not very clear since it is mentioned little, that is, there is not enough information about it. In addition to being known as the Viking compass, it is also called the runic compass. Previously, there was a belief that it served so that people did not lose their way. Before leaving, the Viking sailors painted their figure on the ships as a way of protection and to ensure their return.
svefnthorn
This powerful symbol appears in numerous Viking sagas with slightly different meanings. However, most agree that the Svefnthorn was used to put enemies to sleep. For this reason, it was frequently used by warriors and deities to induce a deep sleep in their opponents.
Imagine the ease with which the Vikings could win a battle against an enemy who was completely asleep, a perfect and powerful tool for those who knew how to use it.
Viking and Norse symbols of the divinities
The emblems that are part of the identification of the gods of Norse mythology, are part of the Viking symbology. Among the main ones are:
Odin's mask
The mask of Odin is one of the most important Viking symbols within the culture and history of this Nordic people, and its interpretation has two bases:
1.- What the god Odin represents
This mask embodies everything that characterizes the god Odin , considered in Norse mythology to be the father of all gods. The mask is known as Wotan , although it has many other names.
Within Norse symbolism, Odin is considered the god of wisdom and knowledge, as well as a calm and affectionate old man, but in the blink of an eye, he can become the god of war and death.
When this happened, even the appearance of the mask became hideous, to the point where the enemies fled in terror, deserting the battle.
2.- Representing the Spirits of nature
As a second basis to explain its meaning, the mask is taken as a symbol where the representation of all the spirits that protect planet Earth converges, called within mythology as "the landvaettir ".
Valknut or Odin's Knot
This symbol is also known as the Heart of Hrungnir or the Heart of the Fallen. It symbolizes the power that the god Odin wielded over the minds of humans, having the authority to decide whether to favor or harm them.
It was not advisable to be painted or tattooed, since, according to tradition, those who did it ended up having a violent death. Its shape of three united triangles embodies the creation of the three levels or worlds.
It is considered one of the most well-known Viking symbols, mostly called Odin 's knot or the knot of death, since in ancient times the term Valknut was not used. This name was created later, as etymologically, the words are composed of vair, meaning slain warrior, and knut, meaning knot.
The symbol signifies power in battle and the ability to strike fear and madness into enemies. It is considered a funerary element, linked to ancient religious practices associated with death.
Triceps
This Norse symbol is composed of three equal parts, like Odin 's knot . In this case, it represents three Inguz runes joined together, taking the traditional shape of diamonds. It is considered a protective symbol, and within the religious sphere, it symbolizes the neo-pagan faith Ásatrú.
Curiously, its name, also alluding to the area of the body, made it common for the place where this symbol was tattooed to be precisely on that part of the arm.
The triple horn of Odin
The triple horn of Odin is one of the Viking symbols that appeared during the 9th century in Denmark, carved on the Snoldelev runestone . This symbol takes the form of three crossed horns, representing the god Odin 's quest for a magical mead, also known as the mead of poetry.
According to the story, this precious treasure was guarded by a giantess, whom Odin had to convince to allow him to drink a sip from each of the horns where the mead was contained.
But with each sip, he managed to completely empty the horns, fleeing from the giant by turning into an eagle. It is generally used to represent wisdom and poetic inspiration. It is said that whoever tastes this drink becomes a wise poet.
Mjolnir, Thor's Hammer
This symbol is considered a lethal weapon, which belonged to Thor , a warrior who was the son of the god Odin . It is one of the Viking symbols of protection in war, the most powerful in Norse mythology.
This hammer was called Mjölnir , a name of Germanic origin, meaning to pulverize and crush. It was crafted by the dwarves Eitri and Brokkr as a gift for Thor . Among its properties was its ability to return to its owner after being thrown, as well as its power to control lightning and thunder, of which Thor was said to be the god.
Despite their conversion to Christianity, this hammer continued to be used by the Norse as a pagan symbol of protection. During battles, Viking warriors wore it around their necks alongside Christian crosses as an amulet to invoke Thor 's protection.
The Ravens Hugin and Munin
Huginn and Muninn were two ravens who appear alongside the god Odin in several Norse depictions. Their role was to warn and inform him about dangers and other events.
On one hand, Munin represents memory, while Hugin represents thought. They were also known as the messenger ravens of the god Odin . They usually appear alongside some symbol representing the god or perched on his shoulders.
Their role is to travel the world during the day in search of information, and then at night, bring it back to Odin . It is said that these ravens have the ability to understand and communicate using human language.
Within the Viking culture, ravens were revered, and even several counts and kings used their figure as an emblem of their empires. It is said that ravens were also used to find land when sailing in unknown waters.
Sleipnir, Odin's horse
Sleipnir was the name of the horse of the god Odin . Its distinctive feature was that it was an eight-legged animal, allowing the god to move in eight different directions through the air or on the ground.
It is considered one of the Viking symbols of protection for journeys and also an emblem of great wisdom. In Norse mythology, the name Sleipnir means elusive, and it is described as the best of all horses.
It was a distinctive gray color, and several theories link it to shamanic practices among Norse pagans. Today, the figure of Sleipnir appears in Icelandic folklore, appearing in artwork, literature, and even in the names of ships.
Jörmungandr, the symbol of the cycles
Jörmungandr , also known as the ouroboros, is a winged serpent or dragon depicted biting its own tail. Its imagery relates to the cyclical nature of time.
It is related to the god Odin , because according to tradition, he cast the monster Jörgmungandr into the ocean to protect the people from danger. It is said that confined to the ocean, it grew so large that it eventually encircled the entire earth, biting its own tail.
Viking symbols of protection
Just as the Vikings have a wide variety of war symbols, they also have protection, based on the superstitiousness of their culture. Some of these Viking symbols of protection are:
The Gapaldur and the Ginfaxi, protection for the feet
Regarding Viking symbols of protection, there are two very particular runes that Vikings used to engrave on the soles of their shoes. These were Gapaldur and Ginfaxi.
The first was placed on the heel of the right shoe, while the Ginfaxi was placed on the toe of the left. The function of these protective symbols was to give warriors strength during battle, ultimately granting them victory.
The tree of courage or Vergrdrassil
The Vergrdrassil is the symbol known as the tree of courage. It is said that priests wore it on their foreheads, as did anyone who had to face important challenges or overcome great tasks.
It was used by those who were going to undertake important companies, and for this they required a lot of sacrifice and courage. It was painted in black or red, unlike other cultures where it appears reflected in a mineral jade green color.
The Angurgapi
The Angurgapi was one of the Viking symbols of medieval Iceland. It was said to possess supernatural properties, and, as a peculiar characteristic, it was engraved on the base of barrels.
Apparently, its use in the barrels responded to the way in which the Vikings kept these objects safe. On the other hand, there is another theory where it is pointed out that it was only a method so that the content of the drinks that were in the barrels would not be damaged.
This rune is closely related to the drinks contained in the barrels, due to the importance and pleasure that the Vikings gave to drinking, and this rune offered protection to their drinks.
The Vatnahlífir
The Vatnahlífir was a symbol that protected Vikings from water as they crossed dangerous rivers. It was usually tattooed under the right arm as protection against drowning. It proved to be very helpful during the long voyages across the open sea, which were often quite lengthy.
the troll cross
The Troll Cross is another Viking symbol that offers protection. Its name derives from its use, as it served to protect against trolls and elves and their dark magic. This symbol was used as a protective amulet within Swedish tradition.
The Troll Cross is usually made of iron, shaped like a circle with a cross at the bottom, and in the form of the Odal Othalaz rune. It is also believed to protect against witchcraft, thanks to the properties of iron. Scandinavian peoples used it as a talisman, as did other Germanic tribes, as evidenced by the discovery of Saxon Troll Crosses in England.
In ancient Europe, it was believed that crosses and iron were symbols of protection against evil creatures, making this amulet one of the most powerful. This symbol can serve as protection for people, animals or buildings.
The Yggdrasil tree and the nine worlds
The Yggdrasil tree , or tree of life, holds within its branches the nine worlds or realms of the universe that comprise Norse mythology. It is one of the most important Viking symbols, as it serves as a link or connection to all the elements of the universe.
It is said that two of its roots are fed by the springs of Hvergelmir and Mimir , while the third and last one rests in the home of the Norns , who are the weavers of Destiny, the past, present and future.
Its branches also serve as a habitat for a variety of animals, while its fruits grant youth to the gods. As already mentioned, Yggdrasil unites the nine worlds of the universe within Norse mythology.
- The world of the giants (The Jötunheim)
- The territory of fire, refuge of the giants of fire (muspelheim)
- The kingdom of eleven rivers and eternal ice (niflheim)
- the world of god Odin and other gods and goddesses (Asgard).
- The land of the light elves (Alfheim)
- The realm of the seer gods vanir (Vanaheim)
- The world of the dwarves hidden in caves and under rocks (Svartálfaheim)
- The land of the treacherous and murderous gods (Helheim)
- The world located in the center of all, habitat of humans (Midgard)
Similarly, other creatures inhabit this mystical tree, such as a dragon, who lives at the base of the tree, and an eagle, who lives at the top of it, and who use the squirrel Ratatosk as a messenger between both worlds.
Viking symbols of love
Similarly, the Vikings had symbols for love, including popular runes that represented the noblest feelings. You can find other topics related to symbols of love in the meaning of the Major Arcana in love.
Viking rune of love
The original meaning of this rune of love, it is not certain that its meaning was like that from the beginning of its creation, or if rather it was an invention of the times of the New Age. However, it continues to symbolize love with it today.
Its structure is made up of a circle, which is divided in half, forming two halves, which symbolize the union of two people in love.
talismans of love
There are a number of runes that have been used as talismans for love. Many of these rune designs could be placed as pendants or engraved on an object that was to be given to a loved one.
family viking symbols
In Viking times, it was important to have good offspring or offspring, a tradition that led women to use some symbols to get pregnant. A curious fact within this culture was that the woman, after drawing one of the family symbols, had to eat a piece of cheese.
Inguz: "Wanting is power"
This is one of the Viking symbols related to the mythological god Ing . It refers to the Earth's ability to generate life, and also to the human capacity to create life and drive projects forward.
That's why it was given the name "where there's a will, there's a way." Inguz , also known as Ingwaz , is a symbol of fertility, embodying great beauty and mystery. In divination, it's one of the most auspicious symbols, and also one of the most popular designs for tattoos.
It was designed to honor the God Frey, and serves to convey certain qualities among which are:
- start something new
- creative ability
- favorable associations
Viking symbols for good luck
The Vikings also believed in good luck and for this reason, they sought to make a large number of Viking symbols to attract great opportunities and benefits to their lives. Among them are:
The Tyrlogsofur
The Tyrlogsofur is a Viking symbol of Swedish origin, used to ensure favorable outcomes in legal proceedings. It consists of the TYR runes joined at the bottom, forming an inverted Y shape. Tyr is the rune equivalent to the letter "T" in the Viking alphabet, and it is said to have been named after the Norse god Tyr.
The Kaupaloki
The Kaupaloki is another Viking symbol used to invoke good fortune, especially in trade and various businesses. It also served as a way to ward off scams.
It is also considered one of the magical symbols of Iceland, invoking prosperity in trade and commercial exchanges, according to a record that appears within a manuscript in the XNUMXth century. In addition to being great warriors, the Vikings also worked as farmers and seafarers.
That is why the sea was the channel through which they could conduct their trade. They considered the Kaupaloki a talisman for business, ensuring the success of their commercial transactions.
Norse Viking Symbol Tattoos
The use of tattoos was used very frequently within the Viking symbology, being part of their culture, particularly the warriors, being a traditional practice among the Nordic peoples.
Where were Viking amulets tattooed?
Both nobles and warriors were painted on different parts of the body with symbols characteristic of them, which had the function of protecting themselves from danger or obtaining certain favors from the gods.
The men were the ones who chose which part of the body the tattoos were going to be made, so it could be anyone with a preference for the back, the back, the arms, the face and even the hands. In the case of women, they preferred to get tattoos on the wrists and shoulders.
Nowadays it is natural to find these Viking symbols engraved on personal objects. Among the preferred Viking symbols for tattooing were runic symbols, which enjoyed authenticity as Viking magical symbols.
Favorite Viking Tattoos
Currently, there is a growing interest in the use of runes among lovers of Nordic and Viking culture, so they seek to get tattoos , drawings and pagan Viking symbols, whose designs are taken from stories and legends.
Among the favorite designs are the wings of the ravens, which was an animal worshiped by the Vikings, as well as the spiral or the cross, which are elements with which the world of gods and Nordic legends are identified.
Generally, the symbolism and meaning of tattoos are not the same as in ancient times. However, elements such as subjectivity and aesthetics prevail over the rigidity of the various designs. Many of these tattoos are done as a manifestation of friendship or love.
Vikings were not Nazis
Despite the propagandistic use that the Nazis made of various Norse Viking symbols, this did not mean that the Scandinavian peoples were in favor of the policies and doctrines of this group.
The symbol most commonly used by the Nazis was the swastika, which originally formed part of Nordic culture, as well as that of China, India, and Tibet, where it was even considered a very positive symbol. If you enjoyed this article, we invite you to view Water Signs.
