Among ancient stories & legends, there are symbols that come back again and again. The Mjollnir, the Triskel... and more recently thanks to certain works of fiction the Vegvisir. Sometimes called the "Viking compass" or the GPS of ancient times, it is a symbol that we associate with the Vikings. But what is it really? Let's go back to the origins of the Vegvisir by looking at several aspects of this symbol.
Sometimes tattooed, sometimes worn on a Runes-de-chêne t-shirt, we invite you to return to the origins of this often misunderstood symbol.
The origins of the Vegvisir:
First, let's bust a myth: the Vegvisir is not a Viking symbol like we read everywhere. Sorry 🤗! It's a symbol found in the Huld manuscript (an old magic grimoire, sometimes called the Galdrabok) that appeared 6 centuries after the extinction of the Viking era.
But how can we explain this misinterpretation?
Don't worry about that, Oak Runes is here to serve you!
Popularized by the Vikings series, the vegvisir was directly associated with this period but above all, this Viking compass is very similar to the terror helm (or Ægishjálmur) also having six branches but with equal endings in patterns unlike our Vegvisir.
And for once, the Aegishjlamur is indeed dated to the Viking era.
Meanings and differences between Vegvisir and Helm of Terror
The Ægishjálmur, also known as the "Helm of Terror", and the Vegvisir are two distinct symbols often associated with Norse mythology and Icelandic magic. Although both are symbols of protection, their meanings differ.
- The Ægishjálmur , mentioned as a symbol of power and domination, was believed to inspire fear in enemies and offer protection to the wearer on the battlefield. It is strongly linked to the idea of victory and invincibility and this is why it can be found on archaeological remains such as shields and helmets.
- The Vegvisir , on the other hand, is, as mentioned earlier, an Icelandic runic treasure; it too is a symbol of protection, but not in battles against the enemy. Rather, it is a guide for both physical and spiritual journeys.
Using Vegvisir: Tradition and modernity 🍂
Traditionally, the Vegvisir was once inscribed on the forehead with blood on its wearer in order to maximize its effects. Don’t worry, we’re not going to ask you to sacrifice a deer and make it a bloody inscription in your Morning routine in order to share the meaning of our Icelandic compass.
And since we're nice at Runes de chêne, here are some tips for simple and effective use:
- Know the meaning of this one, because it is not only a super classy symbol but there is a whole message behind it as you have read!
- Surround your vegvisir with Runes: Yes, the vegvisir presents not only the cardinal points or the 9 cosmic realms of Nordic beliefs (according to what the theories say because there is nothing official). But also runes around it as shown in some representations, do not hesitate to incorporate some around it in order to maximize these effects, add these with those of the runes and add even more aesthetics.
- Incorporate your own meaning: a symbol of luck in travel and epics, they can be both physical and psychic. Whether you are going on a long journey to explore the world or your spirit leads you on a long quest, personalize your vegvisir and make it as unique as you are!
The timelessness of the Vegvisir
Despite its 19th century origins, the Vegvisir embodies & will always embody a timeless aspect of Norse traditions: the search for protection and guidance in the face of life's uncertainties.
As a spiritual compass, it remains relevant today for those seeking a little light in difficult times. Or like us at Runes de Chêne who want to re-enchant the present by drawing inspiration from the past.
Heavy-weight VEGVISIR T-shirt from the Runes de Chêne brand
Today, the Vegvisir continues to please, and rightly so! It takes up the aesthetics of northern European folklore, and inspires with its symbolism. No matter the storm and the mountains we climb, there is always a direction to follow.
Whether through a tattoo, a sweatshirt or an accessory, those who choose to wear this symbol find in its lines a form of reassurance, a strength to continue moving forward despite the uncertainties of modern life!
And you, what did you think?
✨ Help us educate our contemporaries by sharing this article!
💭 React in comments!
