Nordic culture is heavily reliant on symbols, as it is a representation of their faith and beliefs. The Norse symbols were associated with gods and mythology and a way to connect the deities to their powers. The symbols hold a lot of meaning and are meant to succinctly communicate Norse wisdom as well as the formidable power the gods were believed to hold. ‘
These symbols were used both before and during the Viking era. While the meanings remain under debate, there is clear evidence to reinforce their definitions. There is also debate in the actual origin of these symbols and their creation. These symbols existed alongside their runes to create a rich tapestry of symbology that was grounded in both fortune-telling and preserving their mythology.
These served as a way to invoke the gods, and emblems to decorate their clothing and scare off the enemy. However, on a granular level, these symbols were also indicative of everyday life in ancient Nordic culture and what was most important to them. There are clear geographical elements that connect these to the larger culture, and these symbols depict the values that were most important to them during that time. Guidance, fate, destiny, power, and authority are just some of the themes seen in this symbology. These different elements tie back to powerful gods such as Odin and Thor, highlighting their importance in Norse mythology.
Norse Symbols - Norse Meanings
Web of wyrd
The Web of wyrd depicts the connection of the fates. This is a complex interwoven symbol that is representative of the complexities of the fates. It is a representation of the past, present, and future. For the Vikings, the Web of wyrd was a reminder that their deeds not only affect the present but the future as well. The interconnections in the symbol depict the unending connections that life and destiny have in the lives of mortals.
Aegishjalmur
Also known as Aegir’s helmet, the Aegishjalmur is a symbol of protection and power. There are many small elements that depict these ideas of protection and power. For example, the tridents are considered a connection to the Nordic rune of protection. In total, there are eight tridents, which is an association with Odin. It is thought that eight is connected to Odin’s eight-legged horse Sleipnir, which is how the Aegishjalmur is associated with protection and power.
Gungnir
Gungnir is Odin’s magical spear and a formidable weapon. It is also a representation of absolute power and authority. Perhaps lesser known than Mjolnir, it is also very powerful. In mythology, the Gungnir is carved by dwarves – the most powerful in the realm. The point of the spear has powers that improve its aim and speed.
Huginn and Muninn
Huginn and Muninn represent Odin’s ravens as well as the concept of duality. Huginn is the representation of thought while Muninn and memory. Ravens hold special significance in Norse mythology as a representation of death and transformation. Ravens, in particular, were associated with Odin and life.
Mjolnir
A famed symbol, Mjolnir is the name of Thor’s hammer. It is a magical weapon that acts as a boomerang – it always returns to his hand. The symbol also represents fertility, good fortune, and abundance. Mjolnir has also been depicted as a symbol of fertility, and often found in weddings and homes. In Norse mythology, Mjolnir is how Thor protects Asgard from external threats.
Svefnthorn
The sleep thorn, or Svefnthorn was commonly used as a weapon to induce sleep in enemies. The idea was that they would sleep so deeply, they would have trouble waking up. Although a common figure across Norse mythology, the exact meaning of Svefnthorn remains unknown. There is also another variation of the symbol that is often found, making it even harder to decipher its meaning.
Swastika
Although its modern interpretation is with the German Nazi Party, the Swastika predates them by many centuries. It is generally seen as a symbol of power, luck, fire, and prosperity. The swastika is associated with the god Thor in Norse mythology. The symbol was commonly used on objects to instill luck and protection.
Triple horn of Odin
The triple horn of Odin is an emblem of Odin. It depicts three interlocked horns that are drinking vessels. These are traditional to Norse toasting rituals and are connected to the myths of Odin. The triple horn of Odin signifies his quest to attain magic mead, and the three draughts he was able to procure over the course of three days.
Troll cross
The Troll cross is a symbol of protection against trolls as well as elves. It signifies safety and protection from evil forces. The belief was that this symbol prevented one from befalling into danger. The troll cross is commonly seen on amulets dating back to this time period.
Valknut
Odin’s knot, or the Valknut, is a symbol of life, death, and its transition. In Norse mythology, one of Odin’s abilities is to guide souls to the afterlife. The Valknut is also translated as the knots of those who fell in battle. This is a reference to warriors brought to Valhalla that were connected to Odin’s Valkyries.
Vegvisir
Derived from Icelandic, the Vegvisir literally translates into Way guide. It is a representation of the different paths to take, and a guide to mortals. The Vegvisir is a symbol to help find one’s path. It is also known as the Viking compass and a symbol for protecting one’s self.
Yggdrasil
The Yggdrasil is the belief in the cyclical nature of life. It represents a central tenet for much of Norse mythology: each and everything is in a constant state of transformation. A powerful symbol, the Yggdrasil is at the center of both worlds: immortal and mortal. Its roots represent the nine realms of existence, both the seen and unseen worlds.
Viking Norse Font
The Viking Norse font is based on the original Nordic Runes; every letter has been designed in a rhombus shape, which reminds the typical stone inscriptions of the ancient Scandinavian norse population.
The Viking Norse font comes together with a family of 36 symbols from Norse symbolism and 24 symbols from Viking Runes.
