75 Viking tattoos (vegvisir) with a compass (and their meaning)

The Vegvisir is a magical symbol used by the Vikings as a guide on bad weather days when visibility was limited. This term is the result of the union of two Icelandic words: Veg, which means path or path, and Visir, which means guidance or orientation. Thus, Vegvisir represents the protective force we need when we are lost.

This compass was the guide used by the Vikings on their sea voyages, and also protected them on the trails and on all expeditions.

This is the reason why many people around the world get Vegvisir or Viking Compass tattoos, regardless of their age or gender.

What does this compass symbolize?

Vegvisir is mentioned in Galdrabók, a manuscript popular between the XNUMXth and XNUMXth centuries that talks about astrology, mythological creatures, demons, spells, devil spells, etc. It contains the phrase “Carry this symbol with you and you will never get lost in storm or bad weather, even if you are in uncharted territory. "

It is still customary in Iceland to paint it, especially on the doors of houses, to show that everything is going in the right direction.

Icelandic singer Bjork wears his tattoo on his left arm as a symbol of the guide. This is why other people have chosen this place to wear it.

The use of the Vegvisir - or the Viking compass - has spread due to the following belief: if you wear it as an amulet, you will achieve your goal, despite the storms and disasters that you have to face. The figurative meaning of this symbol is not to lose purpose or goals in life, neither north nor concentration. The more realistic meaning of a viking compass tattoo is a lucky charm that will avoid us, which can destabilize or confuse on an emotional level.

Ideas for your next viking tattoo

Viking compass or Vegvisir tattoos are usually worn on the arms, but many prefer the upper back, which offers more room and allows for larger designs.

This symbol is usually tattooed in one color. But some people place them against a fiery red - or another hue - that highlights the compass points that represent the cardinal points.