Viking Symbols and Meanings
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Vegvisir (Viking Compass)Vegvisir means “That Which Shows the Way.”This symbol was a visual spell of protection against getting lost (particularly at sea) – something that would have been very, very important to the Vikings. |
Ægishjálmr (Helm of Awe)Helm of Awe, is a magical Icelandic symbol of protection and victory.The Helm of Awe is mentioned in several of the Eddic poems as being used by both warriors and even dragons! |
Valknut (Knot of the Slain)The Valknut is most-commonly believed to be the symbol of these slain warriors. The exact meaning of the three interlocking triangle shapes is unknown. Clues arise from Celtic and Neolithic art from Northwestern Europe in which interlinking triple shapes are common indicators of magical power and magical essence. |
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Yggdrasil (Tree of Life)Yggdrasil is the vast “ash tree” that grows out of the Well of Destiny (Urðarbrunnr). All nine worlds or nine dimensions are entwined in its branches and its roots. Yggdrasil, therefore, serves as a conduit or pathway between these nine dimensions that the gods might travel. If this all seems a little difficult to imagine, you are not alone. |
Runes (Norse Alphabet)Rune casting was another magical use of runes in the Viking Age. Rune casting or “casting rune sticks” involves spilling pieces of bone or wood (each carved with a rune) onto a piece of cloth. |
Mjolnir (Thor's Hammer)Mjölnir (me-OL-neer) means grinder, crusher, hammer and is also associated with thunder and lightning. When the Vikings saw lightning, and heard thunder in a howling storm, they knew that Thor had used Mjölnir to send another giant to his doom. |
