Since the Norwegian name for the symbol literally means “knot of the slain,” Rudolf Simek theorizes a connection with death rites–perhaps practices similar to those described by the Arab explorer Ibn Fadlan and dramatized in the movie The Thirteenth Warrior. Hilda Ellis Davidson, for example, sees the valknut as symbolizing Odin’s power to bind and unbind: His ability, on the one hand, to tie battle fetters that blind and paralyze an enemy, or on the other hand to loosen the fetters tying the minds of His followers to ordinary reality through His gifts of battle frenzy, intoxication, and inspiration. Beyond that, though, there are many different interpretations of the symbolism involved. You can read a more detailed account of the various stones and associated symbols online here: įrom this evidence, it is generally accepted by scholars as a symbol of Odin, and the addition of warriors, valkyries and a burial make it a pretty safe guess that it was also associated somehow with sacrifice or death. On these stones, it is typically surrounded by valkyrie-like figures, bears (underscoring Odin’s bear connection once again), warriors, and a figure carrying a spear and riding a horse, generally identified as Odin Himself. Archaeologists have found it depicted on picture stones, the earliest from the 7th century CE, in Sweden and England, and on the Oseberg ship burial in Norway. Historically, t he valknut is a somewhat ambiguous symbol, and may signify a number of different things depending on who you ask. Some of us welcome that and even look forward to it as one might look forward to a night with a lover. Most of us who are His know that our deaths belong to Him just as our lives do, and that we will one day die at His hands. The immediate impact of embracing the symbol is more likely to be sweeping life changes, inner transformation, and the sacrifice of comfort zones, than literal death however there is-or ought to be-also an acceptance of the literal meaning of death as a sacrifice to Odin. In modern devotional practice, the symbol is traditionally worn by those who have been claimed by Odin, as a sign that we are willing to be sacrifices to Him at any time He should choose. “ I’ve read (in sources-I-can’t-remember at unrecalled times, unfortunately) that Odin’s valknut is a protective but dangerous symbol, and that one who wears it is marked for great trial or even death. Many Viking warriors used to paint, tattoo or crave this symbol on their forehead between the eyes or arms before going into a battle believing that it will protect them or make then invincible and create fear into the heart of their enemies.7th century picture stone depicting the valknut’s connection with human sacrifice Aegishjalmur is made of protection runes rotated around a circle so it is also called the circle of protection. Aegishjalmur is meant to be a magic rune and the most powerful symbol in the Norse mythology. The Norse word Aegishjalmr/Aegishjalmur/Ægishjálmr pronounced “eye-gish-hiowlm-er” means The Helm of Awe or The Helm of Terror. Popular Vikings Tattoo Designs and the meanings of Viking symbols Modern Viking tattoo designs are not actually from the Viking age but mostly inspired by the Norse mythology including mythological objects, animals, symbols and weapons. Others get Viking tattoos fascinated by the Norse mythology, culture and beliefs. These days Viking tattoos are very popular among the people with Norse heritage who like to show their pride by carrying Viking tattoos on them. No one can really confirm the symbols or the patterns or designs that the Vikings used to use for their tattoos but it is likely that they would have used symbols from Norse mythology and the ancient designs found in their artworks on the jewelries, carvings on bones, boats and other artifacts. Viking tattoos were consist of ancient Norse symbols, various knot patterns or dark green symbols of trees. History tells that the Vikings were covered in tattoos from the tips of their fingers to their necks. They used to sail in their longboats and raid the coasts of Britain and nor-west of France for centuries. The name ‘Viking’ came from a language called ‘Old Norse’ that means ‘Pirate Raid’. Vikings were famous for their sailing and navigational skills. Vikings were the groups of warriors who came from Scandinavian countries such as Norway, Denmark and Sweden between 700 AD – 1100 AD (known as Viking age) in order to raid and settle in Europe, Asia and North Atlantic. 4 Popular Vikings Tattoo Designs and the meanings of Viking symbols.
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