In 2018, Bella launched Saved Tattoo to share insider knowledge with both first-timers and veteran collectors looking to expand their ink. She covers topics like tattoo history, artistic styles, safety tips, design inspiration, and more.

Even though the Viking Compass may not actually have anything to do with the Vikings, it still has historic and cultural value. If not about the Viking warriors who set sail on the Viking ship Islendingur, then about the Icelanders and their beliefs. As well as about the enormous role that fashions have played in the human psyche for centuries. The vegvísir is featured alongside a number of other galdrastafir (magical staves) in the Huld Manuscript, which was written in Iceland by Geir Vigfusson in 1860. The text around it says: The name “berserker” is derived from two Norse words meaning “bear skin”. Berserkers were believed to take on the Scandinavian bear’s essence during battle, adopting their strength, indestructibility, bravery and ferocity. As you embark on your own mystical journey, consider the significance and meaning behind a Vegvisir tattoo. Allow it to guide and protect you, and embrace the rich cultural legacy that comes with this powerful symbol. Conclusion The sigils used in these Icelandic pentagrams mentioned in the Huld Manuscript use many straight lines. These are similar to those found in the Viking runes that formed the Old Norse alphabet. When these straight lines are used together, it looks even more like runes, even though none of them actually represent words or even letters.The symbol might not be from the Viking Age, but did the vikings use a real vegvísir to find their way across the seas? Remember, proper aftercare is essential for the health and vibrancy of your Vegvisir tattoo. Follow these guidelines to ensure your tattoo looks its best for years to come. Celebrities and Their Vegvisir Tattoos This is a minimalistic piece and a cute tattoo that you’ll enjoy if you’re someone who knows how to appreciate the beauty of effortless tattoos. The forearm placement is the best go-to in this case. Avoid sun exposure: Cover your tattoo or use a high SPF sunscreen when going out in the sun. Sun exposure can cause fading and damage to the tattoo. But a Vegvisir tattoo is not just a nod to the past; it represents a modern interpretation of ancient wisdom, combining Norse mythology with personal beliefs and values. It is a timeless expression of individuality and empowerment.

The Huld manuscript includes symbols along with instruction on how to use them, which are to be used in various ways to accomplish all kinds of outcomes. One of the classic nautical tattoo combinations is an anchor and compass. Traditionally, anchors symbolize home, safety, and hope, and were also often tattooed after successfully crossing the Atlantic Ocean. An anchor tattoo and compass represent the guiding and grounding forces in your life. For that reason, many men choose to add initials to represent family members and other loved ones. On top of the Icelandic manuscripts that could at least partly be from around 1500 CE and that may or may not have included the symbol, there is also a Swedish manuscript from the later half of the 18th century referring to the Icelandic ones. This compass with a feather image is for spiritual and creative people. It helps you express your full potential and your journey with others. A: Vegvisir tattoos represent a modern interpretation of ancient wisdom, combining Norse mythology with personal beliefs and values. They serve as powerful reminders of guidance, protection, and personal empowerment. Q: What is the lasting legacy of the Vegvisir symbol?Fun fact: a liquid compasses uses lamp oil and mineral oil. 10. Side Stomach Arrow Compass Tattoo Image Source: @tiffany.fox.tattoo While a single Vegvisir tattoo is generally all that’s needed to find your way, double Viking compass tattoo s are a powerful statement. This is due to the specific runes at the end of each spoke. These runes can represent many things. Depending on interpretation, they can spell out the name of a person or place. You might choose to spell out a location that’s significant to you. Runes can also be used to read fortunes, and so your compass tattoo may spell out a desired life goal or achievement. A Viking compass tattoo is a famous symbol among individuals who believe it can help them avoid getting lost. The symbol features eight directions, symbolizing the many paths that can be taken, with various Norse runes attached to the end of each line. Legend has it that this design was created to prevent Vikings from losing their way on long journeys. People with this tattoo often associate it with strength and power, believing that wearing the compass tattoo is taking control of their destiny. Green is a color of wealth. It will let the world see you for who you are-a nurture and realistic person. Sigils like ægishjálmur and vegvísir bear a certain visual resemblance to runic letters and as much as they use a lot of straight lines. Some of those particular straight lines taken together look a little bit like runes. You can arrange the ægishjálmur sigil in such a way that it has 24 points, which equates to the 24 letters in the elder futhark alphabet, but they are not runes because they do not represent letters or even words. And they might not be any older than the manuscripts in which they’re written down.”

The Vegvisir is a powerful symbol in Norse mythology, and it is crucial to give it the respect it deserves. Using the symbol without understanding its meaning and history can be disrespectful and may offend some people. This outstanding color combo will represent your mood switch and how it can adapt and change during every moment and as you grow. 6. Compass Watercolor Tattoo Colorful Image Source: @bo_mademoiselle

What’s the history of the symbol?

The Vegvisir is also associated with guidance and direction, particularly in uncertain times. The symbol was believed to act as a navigational tool, guiding sailors through rough waters and leading them safely to their destination. As a tattoo, the Vegvisir can serve as a reminder to stay on course and trust your intuition, even when the path ahead is unclear. A Viking helmet tattoo is an undeniable representation of strength and power, reflecting the very essence of a warrior. For example, the symbol is displayed and described in “The Solomon’s testament” from 15th century England, and is described as a Christian mysticism symbol. More on the Magical Staves in Galdrabók and the Huld manuscript Most double tattoos feature the Vegvisir along with the Aegishjalmur, or Helm of Awe, another powerful Vikingsymbol ofprotection. Like the compass, the Aegishjalmur features eight staves that are also pointing outward, but with curved prongs instead of the square prongs of the Vegvisir.

The Galdrabók manuscript has been referred to multiple times over the years, but wasn’t publicized in its entirity until 1921 when Nathan Lindqvist published a Swedish translation along with the original drawings shown above.Ravens are strongly linked with Norse mythology as Odin, the king of the gods was actually sometimes known as the raven god. He had two ravens of his own – Munnin and Huginn (meaning memory and thought). Vegvisir is a magical signpost, wayfinder, or talisman in Norse culture that is intended to help the bearer find their way through rough weather. Though its exact origins are unknown, it is believed to have originated from ancient times and was used by Vikings during long sea journeys. According to legend, if the Vegvísir’s nine branches are bent in different directions according to the winds’ routes and angles of arrival, then the sailor can interpret which direction they should head to avoid danger. As compasses are a classic tattoo design, they suit a traditional placement. The shoulder is one of the best-known and most popular placements for men. Simple to conceal or show off, a shoulder tattoo looks masculine and traditional. Plus, your shoulder is one of the least painful places to get a tattoo, so it’s an ideal choice for your first inking. A shoulder compass tattoo can also easily be turned into a half-sleeve by adding different elements, symbols, and shading. Another reason why the Viking symbol of Vegvisir was attributed to the Vikings, was because of a trend. Yes, even in the 1800s we were governed by the coming and goings of what’s “in”. The 1800s saw a renewed interest and increase in popularity of all things Nordic and Viking. We now refer to this period as the Viking Revival. Whether you’re drawn to the navigational symbolism or the spiritual connections of Norse mythology, a Vegvisir Viking compass tattoo is a meaningful and empowering body art choice. By choosing a skilled tattoo artist and practicing proper aftercare, you can enjoy the enduring impact of this timeless symbol for years to come.