Viking Tattoo Meaning And Original Ideas To Copy

Anyone who has ever dared to get a tattoo, knows very well how frustrating it can be to find the right design! A true symbol of power, strength and courage, Nordic tattoos can only arouse the admiration of all lovers of original tattoos. Whether embellished with fantastic creatures, mythical symbols or intricate intertwining, this tattoo continues to animate many ink lovers, followers of Scandinavian culture, not to mention enthusiasts of the famous "Vikings" series, which has appeared on screens in 2013. If you are not familiar with Scandinavian mythology, rest assured because the editorial staff has everything on the subject to make you appreciate the importance and impact of Nordic symbols! So, let's discover together the aesthetics and the symbolic strength of the patterns,whose warriors covered their bodies at the time, thanks to an enviable file entirely devoted to the Viking tattoo meaning of the most emblematic motifs.

Viking tattoo meaning: symbols and origins of Norse peoples

Known for their adventurous spirit and their ability to adapt to all difficult conditions, Vikings, and in particular their life and history, are an inspiration to many people around the world. Vikings were pagan Scandinavian traders who populated Northern Europe from the 8th century to the 11th century. They were, too, pirates, warriors and great travelers. Archaeological traces attest to the presence of the Vikings in Canada, before the year 1000 and the great voyages of the Renaissance.

As for the Viking tattoo, it is a real success and it is undoubtedly because of its warlike origins that it is given so much attention. But what exactly is this type of tattoo? What is the meaning that it communicates? Usually the word “viking” comes from Old Norse and means “someone who lives in coves and inlets”. However, this etymology is a little fuzzy, because the Vikings voluntarily assimilated the culture of the territories they colonized. And in addition to being seen as pirates, the Norse peoples were also warriors and great travelers.

In the past, tattoos were a way to protect oneself and acquire the omnipotent power of deities. They symbolized strength and sturdiness, courage and ardor par excellence, qualities essential to Nordic culture. Although it sports motifs similar to Celtic culture, know that the Nordic tattoo has its own intertwining. Viking art abounds with mythical creatures and scenes that draw their inspiration from runes and ancient sculptures. There are also friezes and knots, which have a real impact both on the aesthetic aspect of tattoos and on their symbolic value. Tracery often comes in the form of imposing shields and armor. But this is far from being their only and unique charming assets!

Viking tattoo meaning of Odin

Odin or Wodan is the main god of Norse mythology and is also known as the god of war and death. His two ravens indeed represent his ears and eyes in the world of men. They also symbolize knowledge and wisdom.

Yggdrasil or the cosmic tree of life

Yggdrasil or the cosmic tree is the tree containing the nine worlds of Scandinavian mythology, including our planet, or the equivalent of Hell, the world of the dwarves, the world of the elves and the refuge of the gods. As a tattoo design, it represents wisdom, family, hope, and justice.

The Valkyrie or the most famous divine Scandinavian warrior of all

The Valkyrie has gone through the ages losing a lot of nuance about what she really stands for. Overall, the Valkyrie is the most well-known divine Scandinavian warrior who invades the battlefield under the command of the god Odin and has survived the best of time. As a tattoo, it embodies power and control and proves to be a great one for those of you looking for an imposing and artistic design!

Viking tattoo meaning: runes

Runes are among the most popular designs. In mythology, it was a mysterious alphabet that made it possible to write magical messages or simpler inscriptions. For you, we have selected the most beautiful runes tattoos.

Valknut or the knot of the fallen

The Valknut is a figure made up of three intertwined triangles. Translated from Norse, it means knot of the fallen or slain warriors. Some historians say that this figure symbolizes power and freedom. This symbol is also associated with Odin because it is found engraved on many Germanic tombs. The Vikings did not have graves. Indeed, the dead were "sent" to the sea in a boat (drakkar) with all their personal items.

The fear bar

The design of this symbol has eight spades that start from a central point. This symbol represents protection and superpowers. Many Viking warriors wore this symbol to go to war, because they believed it would protect them and give them the courage to defeat any enemies they would fight.

Vegvisir's compass

Vegvisir can mean "indicator" or "someone who finds the way". The Vikings wore Vegvisir's compass because they believed it will guide them. Nowadays, some people believe that Vegvisir will allow them not to take a wrong path in life.

Thor, the god of thunderstorms and storms

If you are fans of the Marvel films and, in particular, of Chris Hemsworth, then you have heard of the storm god - Thor. But did you know he was the son of Odin and one of the most important gods in Norse mythology? His hammer commanded such respect that no other weapon could be compared to it. For common Vikings and warriors, this hammer was very important because it was the symbol of the most powerful god in the world. Today, the symbol confers power, courage and generosity.

Drakkar

Given the fact that the Vikings were frequent travelers, the longship, or the long ships of the Vikings, is one of the most popular motifs in the Nordic universe. So, if you are dreaming of a marine themed Viking tattoo, maybe the drakkar will be your best bet!

The triple horn of Odin

It is another Viking symbol made up of three intertwined drinking horns, representing the god himself. What's more, they figured prominently in elaborate roasting rituals. As a tattoo, the three horns embody wisdom and poetic inspiration.

Wyrd's web

The Web of Wyrd, or the Scandinavian symbol of fate, is a powerful sign that comes in the form of runes. Made by the goddesses of fate, who wove the destiny of all human beings, this star embodies the idea that actions of the past affect the present and that the present can affect the future. Usually, this is a sign of universal interconnectivity.