Meaning of Viking Tattoos: PHOTOS and DESIGNS

Viking runes are one of the most demanded tattoos in relation to Norse mythology. Also known as the runic alphabet or Futhark, it was a writing of the Viking and Germanic peoples that it was used for both divination and magic. These symbols were considered a magical alphabet through which deities communicated, which is why it was so important. Although there are a great variety of symbols within this type of writing, below we will discover the meaning of the tattoos of the main vikin runes:

• Othila– It is a rune related to the clan and its heritage and its main meaning is associated with prosperity, acquisition and lasting benefits. Somehow, it was believed that good luck could come through this rune.
• Dagaz: this rune, also known as Daez or Dagr, has a meaning that is deeply linked to transformation and the natural cycle. There are many people who tattoo it as a symbol of growth and maturity.
• Inguz: also known as Ing or Ingwaz. This rune is related to fertility, new beginnings, and regeneration. It is usually a recurring tattoo in people who are starting a new life or a new project.
• Laguz: also called Lörg or Lagus, this rune has a meaning associated with water, the source of fertility and, ultimately, the fluidity of elements and emotions.
• Berkana: a very popular rune among women because its symbolism is closely linked to femininity, fertility and motherhood.

If you want to know in more detail the Names and Meanings of Viking Runes, Do not miss this article.

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If there is a tattoo par excellence within the Viking world, it is the Valkyries, a symbol that in the old Norse language meant “the one who chooses the fallen in battle.” Within Norse mythology, Valkyries were considered to be minor deities under the command of the goddess Freya. These demi-goddesses were in charge of choosing the most heroic warriors who fell in battle to accompany them to Valhalla, where they would be at the service of the god Odin, who would prepare them for the Rägnarok or the great battle of the end of time.

Due to the Valkyries, considered deities and warriors in turn, the general meaning of the viking valkyries tattoos It is usually associated with power, struggle and strength, especially the female one.

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Another of the best Viking tattoos for women and men is the Vegsívir which means path (Veg) and guide (Vísir). The Vegsívir is considered a very ancient symbol within Icelandic culture, as it first appeared in Huld’s manuscript and in the magical book Galdrabok. This symbol, represented mainly by a compass, was considered a talisman that protected any home, which is why it used to be painted on the doors of many homes.

Currently, the Vegsívir is one of the symbols of the most used Viking tattoos, since it represents taking the right direction and choosing the right path. That is to say, it is a drawing that symbolizes the strength that we draw when we feel lost and that can help us find our destiny.

If you are looking for a Viking armband tattoo, the Valknut may be the most suitable symbol for you. The Valknut, also known as the heart of the fallen or the heart of Hrungir, is a symbol made up of three interlocking triangles that depict a story from the prosaic edda where the thunder god Thor killed the giant Hrumgir.

The Valknut is also known as Odin’s knot, since according to Viking beliefs, whoever tattooed this symbol established a commitment to serve the supreme Norse god. Furthermore, it is also a drawing that symbolizes power both to provoke fear among opponents and to gain confidence and courage, which is why it is a very common tattoo between fighters and warriors.

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In addition to the previous drawings, below we explain the meaning of other Viking tattoos. Within this list, you will find large Viking symbols of love, Viking family symbols and other small Viking tattoos with their meaning.

• Aegishjalmur: formerly this symbol was drawn on the faces of the Nordic warriors to grant them invincibility during battles. Therefore, a tattoo with this drawing can be associated with security, power and protection.
• Thor’s hammer tattoos: a tattoo with Thor’s hammer or Mjolnir symbolizes the power of this god over lightning and thunder, so it can be a symbol of protection and strength.
• Wargs or Viking wolves: Wargs were Nordic animals that represented cunning and intelligence. For this reason, a tattoo with Viking wolves can mean family union to achieve success as long as there is a union between members of the same group. It can also be understood as a Viking symbol of love, since it represents that unity is strength.
• Ouroboros or uroboros– also known as Jörmundgandr or the Midgard Serpent, one of the sons of the Viking gods Loki and Angrboda. Ouroboros was represented as a snake that eats its own tail, since its size could allow it to surround the world. This drawing symbolizes the cycle that repeats over and over again, eternal life, struggle, effort and even love.

If you are passionate about tattoos and want to discover more designs with their meanings, take a look at the following articles:

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