As a Norwegian, I’ve grown up hearing countless tales about our Viking ancestors, their fascinating Nordic symbols and meanings. We learned about the Vikings and Norse mythology in school, as an important part of our own history and heritage.
But the Norsemen are not only fascinating to us, but for the rest of the world too! And so are their symbols.
This is not just because they make for killer tattoo ideas (though, they really do!), but also because the symbols and runes used by the Vikings were an integral part of their culture.
These Nordic symbols and runes were essentially the Vikings’ emojis, used for everything from protection against mischievous trolls to attracting good luck.
The Vikings are amongst the things Norway is most famous for, and I often get asked by visitors about their significance in Norway today. If you are planning a trip to Norway, knowledge about the Vikings and their signs and symbols isn’t really important, but it’s always fun to dive deep into a country’s heritage before you travel!
In this article, I’ll dive into the most famous Viking symbols and the meaning behind them. I will also share a little bit about the difference between runes, and other symbols used by the vikings.
In short, this post is for anyone who is curious about Nordic/Norse symbols and meanings, perhaps because you want to learn more about Viking history, you’re considering getting a symbol as a tattoo, or you’re just a history buff (like me)!
So buckle up, and let’s set sail on this exciting voyage into the mysterious world of Norse symbols and runes!
Table of Contents
Is Norse and Viking the same?
It’s quite a common mistake to think that Norse and Vikings are the same, but in reality, they’re as different as mead and ale!
Get it?
Let’s clear this up: the term ‘Norse’ actually refers to the language spoken by the folks in the Nordics during the Viking Age (and before). It’s like the ancient cousin of modern Scandinavian languages.
Within the language, there are some Nordic symbols that were used to make sense of it all, called Runes, and some symbols that had a greater meaning. But more on that below.
Currently, it is Icelandic that is the closest equivalent to the Norse language. However, Norwegian (and especially the western Norwegian dialects like the one I speak) come in as a close second.
Side note: Some people also refer to the people of the Nordic during Medieval times as Norse. So, it covers not only the language, but also a culture found across the Scandinavian and Nordic countries.
For example, Norse mythology was believed and practiced as the main religion across Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark and Iceland during the Viking age.
Now then, what about the Vikings?
Who were the Vikings?
The Vikings were obviously not a language, but did you know it was a profession.
These were the seafaring Norse folks who got a kick out of exploring, trading, and sometimes – let’s be honest – a bit of raiding.
Most people believe that Viking was the name of the entire people alive in Scandinavia during the Viking age, but in fact, most of them were farmers. Only some (the brave, explorer-types) were actually Vikings.
So, can you be a Viking without being Norse? Nope. But if you spoke Norse, did that make you a Viking? Not necessarily. It’s like owning a ship doesn’t necessarily make you a sailor, right?
I hope this makes sense!
To dive more into the Vikings and who they were, check out my guide to the most famous Vikings in history next!
Runes, Symbols and More
Now that we’ve cleared up the difference between Norse and Vikings, let’s talk about runes and symbols of the time.
Both were used by the Vikings, but had different purposes. Runes were an alphabet used for writing, while the other Nordic symbols had a more visual meaning.
Below, I have split this guide into Norse Symbols and their meanings, and then covered Runes separately.
What are runes?
Runes aren’t just pretty etchings on stones or ancient Viking graffiti (or tattoos on guys who think they are Vikings).
They were the real deal – the ABCs of the Norse world. Runes are letters in alphabet sets known as runic alphabets. They were the literal letters of the time.
You have probably seen runes before, either as symbols on someone’s necklace, or even on a Scandinavian-inspired TV show.
Each rune had its own distinct meaning and was used to communicate something specific. They were etched onto various materials like stone, wood, and metal to serve numerous purposes.
From commemorating feats of bravery to leaving directions for fellow travelers, runes were the Norse folks’ go-to method for written communication.
In addition to being the letters of the time, the runes also had their own symbolic meaning separately. Some of the runes were the Norse symbol for protection, luck and balance, for example.
Basically, when a Rune stood on its own, it could mean more than just being a sound to tell you how to pronounce a word (like a letter).
The difference between runes and Viking symbols
So, what separates a rune from other Nordic symbols?
Well, it’s like comparing apples to oranges… (or should we say, runes to symbols?)!
Runes, being the alphabetic system of the Norse, were primarily used to represent sounds and form words.
On the other hand, the other Viking symbols, while being just as cool as runes, were more like visual metaphors.
They were used for their symbolic value, representing a wide array of ideas, from courage to fate to gods. Think of it this way: if the Norse world was a comic book, runes would be the dialogue and other symbols would be the super cool artwork!
I know it is a little confusing, since I just said that runes could also have a symbolic meaning. However, this was only when they stood on their own.
12 Must-Know Nordic Symbols and meanings
Below I have outlined the 12 most famous Nordic symbols and their meanings. Note that these are not runes, but symbols used during the Viking age to symbolise certain feats and wishes.
I have covered runes and their meanings further down in this article.
Most of these are symbols that were actually worn by people during the Viking age, such as Thor’s hammer. We know this, because necklaces with the hammer have been dug up near graves from the Middle ages across Scandinavia.
A few are also symbols from Norse mythology that have been given meaning through their stories, without necessarily being something the Vikings (or Norsemen) carried around physically. For example, the Fenrir wolf.
#1 Thor’s Hammer (Mjølner/Mjolnir)
Ever heard of Mjolnir? I’m sure you have, as it’s probably the most famous of all the Viking symbols that is still being used today.
Mjolnir was the mighty hammer wielded by none other than Thor, the Norse god of thunder. He would ride around the skies on his chariot pulled by goats (yes), setting of thunder and lightning using his hammer.
Mjolnir was a symbol of protection and power, capable of leveling mountains with a single blow.
When the Vikings weren’t busy navigating the high seas or raiding (they weren’t just about that, you know), they would wear amulets in the shape of Mjolnir for good luck and protection.
So, think twice the next time you casually pick up a hammer. You might just be holding a symbol of ancient strength and power!
#2 Valknut (Odin’s Knot)
Okay, so let’s move onto a more geometric symbol called the Valknut – Val translates to choice, and knut translates to knot. Yet, instead of calling it a “choice not”, it has been dubbed Odin’s Knot in English.
This symbol is a set of three interlocking triangles, kind of like a Viking version of a Venn diagram. It was found on items onboard the famous Oseberg ship, so we know the old Norse folks thought it was pretty important.
The Valknut is often called Odin’s Knot because it’s associated with the Allfather himself, Odin, the god of war, wisdom, and poetry.
Whilst the experts aren’t in complete agreement about its meaning, the symbol is believed to represent the transition between life and death.
#3 Yggdrasil (the Tree of life)
Next up on our Viking symbol tour is the big one, the epicenter, the “root” of it all – the Yggdrasil, otherwise endearingly known as the Tree of Life.
Now, imagine a tree so huge that it makes your favorite oak tree look like a bonsai. Yggdrasil, this cosmic ash tree, has its branches reaching out to touch the heavens and the roots digging deep down into the underworld.
Yggdrasil is the ultimate symbol of interconnectedness, linking the realms of the Norse goddesses and gods, men, and the dead.
If you ever feel a bit lost, just remember – we’re all just hanging out somewhere on Yggdrasil’s branches, navigating through this vast cosmos together. Pretty cool, huh?
Therefore, it’s pretty obvious that the symbol of Yggdrasil (whether you want it as a tattoo or a necklace), is a reminder that you are part of something greater.
#4 Vegvisir (the Viking compass)
I love how these Norse words and expressions are so similar to words we use in Norway today. “Vegvisir” sounds a lot like the word “Vegvisar” (or “veiviser” if you are from eastern Norway), which means “pathfinder” in Norwegian.
This Viking compass symbol was said to protect travelers from getting lost in unfamiliar territories. Shaped like an eight-pointed star, with different rune-like symbols on each point, Vegvisir was believed to guide the bearer through rough waters and bring them safely home.
Nowadays, you might not find a compass like this on your GPS, but rest assured that wherever you go, Vegvisir has got your back!
#5 Hugin and Munin (Odin’s ravens)
Hugin and Munin, the winged companions of Odin, are more than just a couple of ravens with cool names.
In Old Norse, Hugin translates to ‘thought’ and Munin to ‘memory’.
These ravens weren’t just Odin’s pets; they were his eyes and ears in the world. Every day, they’d fly across the realms, observing everything, and at dusk, they’d return to whisper all they’d seen and heard into Odin’s ears.
Imagine having an X (formerly Twitter) feed directly wired into your brain, except every tweet is a meaningful update about the state of the universe.
So, the symbol of Hugin and Munin is a powerful reminder to us all, to use our thoughts and memories wisely as we navigate life’s challenges. Norse symbols always have a way of bringing profound life lessons to the front, don’t they?
#6 The Fenrir Wolf (Fenrisulven)
The Fenrir Wolf, or Fenrisulven as we affectionately call it in Norway, is another gripping symbol from the Norse mythology.
This monstrous wolf is actually the child of Loki, and let’s just say, the apple didn’t fall far from the tree! Fenrir was prophesied to cause mayhem during Ragnarok, the end of the world. So, the gods decided to play it safe and keep him chained up.
Today, Fenrir serves as a potent symbol of destructive forces that are difficult to control, but also of the courage to face our deepest fears.
So next time you come across this symbol, remember, it’s not just about the fear of the wolf; it’s about the courage in facing it.
#7 The Helm of Awe (Oegishjalmr, Norse symbol for protection)
The Helm of Awe, or Oegishjalmr as it’s known in the old tongue, is a real head-turner in the world of Viking symbols. It’s the Norse equivalent of a security blanket.
This symbol, often depicted as an eight-armed figure radiating from a central point, was believed to provide protection and the power to strike fear in one’s enemies.
The Helm of Awe is more than just a tool for intimidation; it’s a reminder of our inner strength and resilience, and the lengths we’ll go to protect what’s important to us.
So, when life feels like a Viking raid, remember the Helm of Awe – you’re stronger than you think!
#8 Skuld’s Net (Net of Wyrd)
Skuld’s Net is also known as the Net of Wyrd.
This intriguing piece of Viking symbolism is like the ancient Norse version of the world wide web. Instead of cat videos and memes, it represents the interconnectedness of past, present, and future.
Picture it as a complex web, where each intersection is an event in time, linked to every other event – a reminder that our actions today ripple through time, impacting our tomorrows.
So, why was it important to our seafaring predecessors?
Well, the Vikings believed that destiny was a powerful force but not unalterable. The Net of Wyrd symbolized their understanding of shaping their own fate.
So next time you’re faced with a tough decision, remember the Net of Wyrd. It’s not just about accepting our fate; it’s about weaving it.
#9 Gungnir (Odin’s mighty spear)
Gungnir, the notorious spear of the All-father Odin, is another fascinating symbol in the Viking lexicon.
As the stories go, this was no ordinary spear. Crafted by the dwarves – the master smiths of Norse mythology – Gungnir never missed its target and always drew blood when thrown.
But what’s the deeper significance and the meaning here? To the Vikings, Gungnir symbolized the unerring pursuit of knowledge, the relentless quest for wisdom, much like Odin himself who was known for his wisdom.
So, the next time you’re in a tight spot, remember Gungnir. Take aim, trust your intuition, and let fly! After all, who doesn’t want to channel a bit of Odin’s unstoppable spirit in their everyday life?
#10 Hraethigaldur and Ottastafur
Moving onto yet another intriguing piece of Viking symbolism, let’s dive into Hraethigaldur and Ottastafur.
Not as famous as our friend Gungnir, but equally fascinating, these two are Norse stave symbols often intertwined with magic and protection.
Hraethigaldur, or the “Rune of Rabbits,” is believed to help one become elusive and quick, just like a bunny hopping away from danger.
On the other hand, Ottastafur is your go-to symbol for causing fear and panic among enemies.
So, whether you’re channeling your inner Bugs Bunny or want to ward off that particularly pesky co-worker, these symbols got your back.
#11 The Midgard Serpent (Jörmungandr, the Norse Ouroboros)
Heard of the Midgard Serpent? No, it’s not the latest character in a Marvel comic, but a powerful creature from Norse mythology.
All though, to be fair, I would love for Midgardsormen to show up in the next Thor movie.
Born from the union of the trickster god Loki and the giantess Angrboda, the Midgard Serpent was so enormous that he could encircle the entire world, Midgard, and grasp his own tail in his mouth.
But what does Midgardsormen (Norwegian) / Jörmungandr (Old Norse) symbolize, you ask?
Well, it’s all about the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth – quite deep for a giant mythical snake, right?
This massive serpent biting its own tail represents the concept of the Ouroboros, a symbol of eternal cyclic renewal.
#12 Vatnahlífir (norse symbol for protection from water)
Vatnahlífir was a stave often tattooed on a Viking’s underarm as they sailed across difficult oceans and rivers. It was the Norse symbol to protect you from drowning, and was believed to be very important to the Vikings.
The Vikings also believed that the Vatnahlifir helped guide you through rough waters. So, when they were rowing across the seas in their longships (pictured below), they usually had some version of the Vatnahlifir on their person.
Now that we’ve covered the 12 most famous Nordic symbols and their meaning, it’s time to move on to the other form of symbol from the Vikings: runes!
The Runes (Viking symbols) and their meaning
Let’s quickly recap what runes are.
These were the Viking’s version of an alphabet, called the Futhark, and they’re chock-full of mystery and magic.
Each rune was not only a letter in their written language but also held a special meaning as a standalone symbol (talk about multitasking).
They were used in everything from everyday writing to divination and were a significant part of Norse culture.
The oldest form of the Scandinavian runic alphabeth is the Elder Futhark. There are 24 signs, or letters, in this alphabet.
The Runic Alphabet
Below I have listed each of the runes, and their individual meaning.
- Algiz: The rune of protection and defense
- Ansuz: Considered the rune of Odin himself, and communication
- Berkana: The rune of birth, femininity and fertility
- Dagaz: The rune of dawn, awakening, awareness and hope
- Ehwaz: The rune of transportation and movement (and as a result, progress)
- Eihwaz: The rune of reliability, dependability and balance
- Fehu: The rune of success, wealth and abundance
- Gebo: The rune of balance, generosity and gift (Elhwas is also the rune of balance)
- Hagalaz: The rune relating to the wrath of nature and being tested
- Inguz: The rune og growth, change and common sense
- Isa: The rune of clarity, watching and waiting (being introspective)
- Jera: This rune represents the harvest, a time of peace and happiness, and a fruitful season
- Kennaz: The rune of vision, knowledge and creativity
- Laguz: The water rune, and the rune of flow, intuition and emotions
- Mannaz: The rune of humanity, friendship and collaboration, but also of individuality
- Nauthiz: The rune of need, restriction, conflict, willpower and endurance
- Othila: The rune of ancestry, heritage and inheritance
- Perthro: The rune of fate, mystery and secrets
- Raidho: The rune of travel, rhythm and spontaneity
- Sowilo: The rune of the sun, success and goals achieved
- Thurisaz: The rune of brute force/power, warrior, and the symbol of Thor (it looks the most like a modern T)
- Tiwaz: The rune of masculinity, leadership and justice
- Uruz: The rune of strength of will
- Wunjo: The rune of comfort, pleasure, joy and also success
Wondering how to pronounce the runic alphabet? Watch the video below!
Norwegian souvenirs with Nordic Symbols and runes
If you found this post because you want to find a Viking-themed necklace or gift for someone you know, you’ve come to the right place!
Now that we have covered some of the most famous Nordic symbols and runes, I want to share some of my favorite types of Viking-themed souvenirs and jewelry, where the ancient symbols of the Nordic warriors meet modern style!
Read next: Norwegian souvenirs you must know about!
From the helm of awe or terror, known as Oegishjalmr, a symbol of protection and might, to other significant Norse symbols, each piece tells a unique tale of Viking valor.
For the vikings, these symbols were more than just decorative motifs; they represented the beliefs, values, and way of life of the Norse people. For instance, Oegishjalmr was believed to instill fear in enemies while protecting its wearer from harm.
Other popular symbols include Thor’s hammer, Mjolnir, symbolizing strength and power, and Yggdrasil, the tree of life.
Whether you are looking for a meaningful gift or want to add a touch of Viking heritage to your own style, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Another great Scandinavian gift is a knitted Nordic sweater!
Below I have hand-picked a range of gifts with Viking symbols on them, mostly necklaces and jewelry (it’s the most common). Amazon especially has a lot to choose from, from $300 gold pieces necklaces to more affordable ones.
Nordic Symbols and Meanings FAQ
Below you will find the most frequently asked questions about nordic symbols and their meaning. I have done my best to answer all. If you have a question that is missing, comment below so I can add it to the FAQ.
The most powerful Norse symbol is the Valknut. It is a symbol of power, strength and courage. It was believed to be a magical symbol capable of connecting with the gods and spirits of the Norse pantheon. The Valknut was associated with Odin, who was the most powerful god in Norse mythology.
Thor’s hammer, known as Mjölnir, is the most famous Viking symbol. It was used by the Norse God Thor to protect Asgard, the home of the gods, from their enemies. The hammer was said to be able to deliver lightning and thunder and could level mountains with one blow. In Norse culture, it is a symbol of protection, strength, and courage.
Norse runes were the alphabet of the Viking age, used to form words and sentences. The runes also had meaning on their own, and could represent protection, love, strength and more.
Runes were the nordic alphabet. Other Nordic symbols include Thor’s hammer, the Tree of Life (Yggdrasil) and Valknut (Odin’s know).
The rune Ehwaz is the most commonly known Viking symbol for loyalty.