Knowing which Norse tattoos to avoid is becoming increasingly important in today’s world. As Norse mythology becomes more mainstream with the introduction of various pop-culture Vikings and Norse gods, more people are beginning to seek out their own Scandinavian ink.
While some Norse symbol tattoos don’t have any negative connotations associated with them, others have taken on negative meanings over the years.
Certain groups have adopted Norse symbols for their problematic movements, which could mean a design you associate with freedom and peace is viewed by others as an icon of intolerance.
At the same time, it’s worth noting that some people do consider it disrespectful to highlight another culture on your body if you don’t belong to a select group.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking of getting your own Norse tattoo…
Should I get a Norse tattoo?
Norse tattoos can be an excellent way to showcase your love of the Nordic culture. The Nordic people were responsible for creating some beautiful symbols and runes.
They also have a phenomenal mythological history, brimming with amazing figures you might want to highlight on your own body.
Unfortunately, like many historical symbols, certain Norse designs have grown to be problematic over the years. Just as Hitler adopted the Swastika, previously a symbol of peace, for his horrific agendas, various white supremacist and neo-Nazi groups have embraced Norse tattoos for their own purposes.
This means if you’re thinking of getting a Norse tattoo of your own, you’ll need to do a little extra research in advance.
If you are interested in Norse symbols and runes, but feel tattooing is a bit hassle for
you, you can make these patterns into custom stickers. You can get custom stickers
cheap at CustomSticker. You can even make innovative designs of these Nordic
symbols to make them unique. Customized stickers are novel in design and high in
quality. They will be great keepsakes and decorations.
Is it disrespectful to get a Viking tattoo?
Whether a tattoo taken from another culture is considered “disrespectful” or not will depend on who you ask. Various Norse concepts can be seen as disrespectful in certain cultures. For instance, using the phrase “Til’ Valhalla” outside of the military can rub some people the wrong way.
If you’re going to be spending a lot of time around people with Viking roots, they may consider some Viking tattoos to be more disrespectful than others.
The most problematic Norse tattoos to avoid
Before getting any Norse tattoo, it’s worth taking some time to research the history behind the symbol. However, some icons are already known to be more problematic than others.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most commonly problematic Norse tattoos to avoid:
Thor’s Hammer
One of the most popular tattoo choices since the arrival of Thor in the Marvel Universe, Thor’s hammer is considered by many to be a symbol of strength. There are various different Norse mythology tattoos which include an image of Thor’s hammer.
Unfortunately, while this image might be a symbol of strength for you, it has also been adopted by various white supremacist groups, and outlaw biker groups around the world.
If you’re going to choose a Thor’s hammer tattoo, it might be a good idea to include a depiction of the God alongside the image, to help highlight the right message.
The Valknut
The word “Valknut” is a Norwegian term used to describe three interlocking triangles. The symbol is associated with the god Odin, as well as death, war, and the dead. Above all, the Valknut symbol is considered to be connected with the afterlife, and the “slain warrior”.
Unfortunately, this image is also frequently used by various hate groups and neo-Nazis, as a way to show their readiness to fight.
The visual was adopted by the Nazis and thee Third Reich several years ago, and has maintained it’s negative connotations over the years. It’s best to avoid this tattoo at all costs.
The Triskelion
Otherwise known as the Celtic Triskele, the Triskelion is a simple figure made up of three interlocked horns. It’s similar in a lot of ways to the Valknut design. However, this image is intended to represent “symmetry” and the mythological figures in Viking lore known for storytelling, poets and musicians.
This could have been a beautiful tattoo option for many if it hadn’t been adopted by so many far-right extremist groups. Many hate parties adopt this symbol as a way of identifying themselves as white supremacists.
The Sonnenrad
One of the attractive Norse symbol tattoo options worth avoiding today, the Sonnenrad is an icon of Scandinavian and Nordic heritage. It was once one of the most prominent symbols in the Nordic region, connected with a host of positive ideas like life, unity, and triumph.
Unfortunately, the Nazis ended up using this symbol frequently too, often placing a swastika in the center. Today, many far-right groups, and neo-Nazis use this symbol as a representation of the “Aryan race”.
The symbol was even used as a tattoo design for Jacob Chansley, who was one of the people responsible for storming the US Capitol in January 2021.
Yggdrasil
Among the most iconic Norse mythology tattoos, the Yggdrasil is an ancient ash tree around which everything in the universe was believed to resolve. Yggdrasil appears frequently in Nordic literature and art, and the design has often been used as a representation of life and the universe.
The design, though beautiful, has become immensely problematic over the years. As a crucial symbol in Nordic mythology and culture, the image has been the target of various global hate groups, white supremacists, and far-right groups over the years.
The Black Sun (Schwarze Sonne)
Not to be confused with the Sonnenrad, the Black Sun is another symbol that has been co-opted by neo-Nazi and far-right groups. Originally designed as a mosaic for the Wewelsburg Castle, a place of significance for the SS during the Nazi regime, it has since become associated with esoteric Nazism and white supremacist ideologies. The Black Sun features a series of concentric circles filled with sig runes or other motifs that suggest radial symmetry. Due to its associations, it’s advised to avoid this symbol as a tattoo choice.
The Wolfsangel
The Wolfsangel was historically used as a heraldic symbol and is believed to have magical powers to ward off wolves. However, its adoption by the Nazis and various neo-Nazi groups today has significantly tainted its perception. The symbol resembles a stylized anchor or a wolf’s hook and has been used by various military and paramilitary units in Nazi Germany. Due to its continued use by extremist groups, getting a Wolfsangel tattoo could unintentionally signal affiliation with such ideologies.
The Vegvísir
The Vegvísir, often referred to as the Viking or Norse compass, is a symbol from Icelandic magic, believed to help the bearer find their way through rough weather. Although not directly associated with hate groups, the Vegvísir’s popularity in modern tattoo culture has led to a debate about cultural appropriation and the commercialization of Norse symbols. It’s a reminder to consider the cultural significance and origins of symbols before making them part of your body art.
The Helm of Awe (Aegishjalmur)
Another magical stave from Icelandic lore, the Helm of Awe, is meant to provide protection and instill fear in one’s enemies. While it doesn’t have the same negative associations as some of the other symbols listed, its growing popularity has led to concerns about misunderstanding and misuse. As with the Vegvísir, the debate around the Helm of Awe often centers on cultural appropriation and the importance of respecting the origins and meanings of these symbols.
Is it okay to get a rune tattoo?
When it comes to figuring out which Norse tattoos to avoid, it’s often a good idea to be cautious about your rune choices too. Runes are popular in the tattoo landscape, but they can also have a range of different meanings.
Let’s take a look at some of the Norse symbol tattoos you might want to stay away from in the rune landscape.
The Othala/Odal rune
Once used in the Nordic runic alphabet, the Othala or Odal symbol was used for the “O” sound. It was once commonly connected to concepts like inheritance, legacy, and heritage. This symbol had a simple meaning for some time, until the Nazi’s began adding it to their propaganda.
Today, the Othala rune symbol can be found in the emblems of various white supremacist groups throughout Europe and the USA. The image has appeared in hate groups around the world, particularly as a symbol for the “Aryan nation”.
The Tyr rune
Known to some as the Tiwaz rune, the Tyr rune was the runic representation of the Norse god Tyr, an incredible warrior considered to be a symbol of justice and law. Similar to many of the other Norse tattoos to avoid on this list, this image was also stolen by the Nazis.
Today, the design has become one of the most common white supremacist symbols adopted by modern hate groups around the globe.
The Sig rune
The Schutzstaffel is one of the better-known symbols known for representing the Nazi rule in Germany during World War 2. Unfortunately, this image is very similar to the Sig Rune.
The lightning-bolt shaped S-rune once represented victory in battle for the Norse people, which might be why it was so popular among Nazi groups.
Today, people sporting the Sig rune, particularly if they have two of these designs side by side, are usually considered to be Neo-Nazi supporters.
Can I get an Odin tattoo?
As perhaps the most important figure in Norse mythology, Odin may be the first person you think of if you want a mythological tattoo from the Nordic landscape. Odin was a god of war, but also one known for his wisdom, and intelligence.
People throughout the Scandinavian region still see symbols of Odin as being linked to life, death, and rule.
While a tattoo of Odin himself might not be problematic, a tattoo which symbolizes Odin’s two ravens, Huginn and Muninn, might be more of a problem. Previously thought to represent thought and memory, these ravens have taken on new meanings with the help of far-right extremist groups.
Many white supremacists now use a set of two ravens as their main symbol, often placed within a white flag, to showcase their commitment to the Aryan race.
While not everyone will automatically associate a raven tattoo with something negative, it’s worth being particularly cautious when you’re choosing a tattoo featuring two ravens together.
What to remember when choosing Norse symbol tattoos
Knowing which Norse tattoos to avoid when covering your body in permanent art can be crucial in today’s complex world. If the Norse symbols and mythological icons above had maintained their original meanings over the years, they might have one day made for excellent tattoo designs.
In fact, many Norse symbol tattoos are considered to be beautiful, intricate, and enlightening. However, the unfortunate reality is that dangerous groups around the world can sometimes steal designs for their own purposes, damaging the overall impact of the design.
If you’re not certain about the origins or symbolism of a tattoo taken from Norse culture, it’s best to play it safe and do your research before you commit.
Scandification: Discovering Scandinavia.
