VIKING SYMBOLS AND THEIR MEANINGS

Vikings were a warrior and seafaring people who inhabited the Nordic lands during the Viking Age, approximately from the 8th to the 11th century. In addition to their skills in navigation and warfare, Vikings also had a rich tradition of symbols that reflected their beliefs and values. These Viking symbols have captured the imagination of many people today and hold deep and fascinating meanings. In this article, we will explore some of the most well-known Viking symbols and their significance.

    

Viking Symbols and Their Importance

Viking symbols played a crucial role in the daily life of the Vikings. They served as a form of communication, whether to represent abstract concepts or convey visual messages. These symbols took various forms, such as jewelry, armor, ships, and runestones. Each Viking symbol had its own meaning and was imbued with power and magic.

 

LIST OF NORDIC SYMBOLS 

Before we begin, it's important to distinguish between Norse and Viking. Both Norse and Viking refer to the same Germanic people who spoke Old Norse and settled in Scandinavia. However, while Norse refers to the people in general, Viking refers to the Norse who were sailors and warriors, and who left their homeland to colonize and raid other lands.

• The Hammer of Thor (Mjölnir)
• The Viking Knot
• The Vegvisir
• The Triskele
• The Valknut
• The Raven
• The Dragon
• The Tree of Life (Yggdrasil)
• The Viking Ship
• The Battle Axe
• The Rune
• The Sun Cross
• The Wolf

YGGDRASIL - TREE OF LIFE OR WORLD TREE 

The Tree of Life, known as Yggdrasil, was a Viking symbol that represented the connection between the different realms of the universe. Yggdrasil was believed to be a massive ash tree that held the nine worlds of Norse cosmology. This symbol conveyed the idea of interconnectedness and the importance of maintaining balance in the world. 

 

The Hammer of Thor (Mjölnir)

One of the most recognizable Viking symbols is the Hammer of Thor, known as Mjölnir. This symbol represented protection and divine strength. It was believed that wearing an amulet in the shape of Thor's hammer granted protection against enemies and the forces of chaos. The Hammer of Thor also symbolized the power of thunder and lightning, important elements in Norse mythology.   

                                

                       

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The Viking Knot

The Viking knot was a decorative symbol commonly used on everyday objects such as brooches and belts. This intricate knot was not only aesthetically pleasing but was also believed to possess protective and magical properties. Viking knots often represented the connection between different aspects of life, such as the past and the present, or the body and the spirit. 

  

                        

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The Vegvisir

The Vegvisir was a symbol of guidance and direction in Viking journeys. It was believed to show the way to those who were lost at sea or in unfamiliar lands. The Vegvisir was represented as a circular compass with eight arms, and it was believed to provide protection and security for Viking sailors and explorers. It was a symbol of great importance, as it allowed them to find their way back home even in the most adverse conditions. 

 

The Triskele

The Triskele was a Viking symbol that represented the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. It consisted of three interlocking arms that converged at a central point. This symbol embodied the connection between the past, the present, and the future, and symbolized eternity and the continuity of the universe. Additionally, the Triskele was also associated with protection and good luck. 

                      

The Valknut

The Valknut, also known as the "knot of the fallen," was a symbol associated with the Norse god Odin and his role as the leader of brave Viking warriors. This symbol was composed of three interlocking triangles and was believed to represent fate, sacrifice, and bravery in battle. The Valknut was used as a protective amulet and as a symbol of loyalty to Odin.  

                   

The Raven

The raven was a powerful symbol in Norse mythology and also held significant meaning in Viking culture. It was believed that ravens werethe messengers of the gods and possessed deep knowledge of the world. In Norse mythology, ravens were companions of Odin and were associated with wisdom, protection, and the ability to see beyond the visible.  

                          

 

The Dragon

The dragon was a Viking symbol that represented ferocity, power, and protection. It was common to see dragon imagery on Viking ships as they believed it would ward off evil spirits and safeguard sailors during their journeys. The dragon also symbolized the strength and bravery of Viking warriors in battle.  

                         

The Viking Ship

The Viking ship was an iconic symbol of the Vikings and their adventurous spirit. These ships were a vital part of Viking life as they enabled them to explore new lands, engage in trade, and conduct raids and plundering. The Viking ship symbolized courage, naval skill, and the desire for discovery among the Vikings.