If you are considering getting a Viking tattoo, here is some essential information you must remember. We hope this article can provide the background behind these necessary symbols and designs so you can make an informed decision.
The Valknut
The Valknut is a triple triangle knot that symbolizes life and death. Typically seen at burial sites and accompanied by Odin, who guides souls between this world and beyond.
Yggdrasil
Yggdrasil, or the World Tree, is one of the most iconic symbols from Norse mythology and modern pop culture alike. Representing interconnectivity, its roots extend through Jotunheimr and Asgard into all corners of Earth – feeding off Mimisbrunnr (Well of Wisdom), which it is said that Mimir gained wisdom by drinking. Yggdrasil derives from two Norse words for fear: Yggr and drill, terror and horse, respectively. This may refer to Odin hanging himself from Yggdrasil for knowledge of runes.
Valknut
The Valknut is an enigmatic symbol with multiple interpretations; some believe it represents death, while others associate it with Odin’s hall of Valhalla. The logo represents the knot of a fallen warrior and can be found on runestones and picture stones (large limestone slabs incised with bands of figurative scenes). It can be created using one line to create three interconnecting triangles, or each triangle can have its shape. The symbol has also become associated with Valkyries, female figures who were believed to gather and transport fallen warriors back to Odin’s hall after they had been killed in battle. This link may stem from an association with Odin selecting only courageous fighters for passage to Valhalla.
Berserker
Viking-age Scandinavia is famous for its fierce, fearless warriors known as Berserkers. They would enter battle wearing animal hides without regard for their safety, often entering in a trancelike ecstasy or taking drugs that numbed pain and fear responses. Berserkers would sometimes resort to drugs to enhance this state. Berserkers were feared by all who encountered them, with many fearing their disregard for life made them all the more lethal. It is thought that berserkers consumed the hallucinogenic plant Hyoscyamus niger to achieve this state of rage – hence why you often see depictions of them depicted semi-nude like this golden horn found in Mogeltonder, Denmark, dating from the 5th Century AD.
Helm of Awe
Tattoos were essential symbols to Vikings, who used them as a sign from their gods and to invoke protection. Warriors also used Helms of Awe (also called AEgishjalmur) as protective amulets against evil spirits and trolls, wearing these symbols before the battle in hopes that it would protect or scare away their foes. Viking symbols often included the Ouroboros, representing Jormungandr, a Midgard serpent that consumes its tail – and is connected with Loki as a trickster god.
Sleipnir
Sleipnir, an eight-legged Norse mythology horse, can safely carry people across oceans. Additionally, its powerful hoofbeats may frighten or confuse enemies. Tattoos that represent strength and courage, like Sleipnir, make great choices for body art. Getting one of its runic symbols as part of your design is even better. Another popular choice is a Viking compass, also known as Vegvisir. While not actually from the Viking Age, its design still pays tribute to Norse mythology and culture while guiding your daily life. It also makes an excellent statement.
Mjolnir
Mjolnir, Thor’s legendary hammer, is one of the most recognizable symbols associated with Norse mythology. This magical weapon acts like a boomerang and always returns to its owner’s hand; furthermore, it represents fertility and good luck. Mjolnir can be used to bless new babies to ensure their protection from harm and blessing from Thor. This symbolizes that these infants will grow into warriors, tradesmen, husbands, and wives who will serve God’s will and prosper under its protection. Mjolnir’s origin story involves two dwarf brothers competing to build it as part of a competition against Loki’s attempts at stopping them. But, regardless, they managed to make this incredible “grinder.” So powerful was its hit that it can destroy mountains in an instant!
