History of the symbol
Valknut has an ancient history. This is one of the most popular signs in Scandinavian mythology, although only a few legends and artifacts with its images have survived to this day. Three intertwined triangles carry mysterious and powerful energy. This image is translated as “knot of the dead” or “knot of the fallen.”
Valknut was first mentioned in the ancient Scandinavian legend about the brave warrior Hrugnir. This giant knew no fear because his heart was made of stone with three corners. The symbol of intertwined triangles was called Valknut or "Heart of Hrugnir". The numbers 3 and 9 had magical meanings in Viking legends. The image of Valknut has three triangles and nine angles. In Norse mythology, the number three meant “very much” and nine meant “more than enough.”
The exact meaning assigned by the ancient Scandinavians remains in the mists of time, but it is generally accepted that Valknut was associated with the afterlife. His images are found on memorial stones, tombstones, frescoes with military actions and funeral boats that went to sea with the deceased. The ancient Scandinavians had legends about the supreme god and patron of the fallen warriors, Odin. The Valknut symbol is directly associated with this god.
Where did the Valknut symbol come from?
The Valknut, which is a sign containing three triangles, is most often found on rune stones, altars and images of battles or executions.
This sign was also found on ritual accessories for burial.
Traditionally, this symbol was engraved on sacrificial stones intended for the “bloody eagle” execution.
During the execution, the ribs of a still living person were cut, turned to the sides and the lungs were taken out. The latter were placed on the shoulders of the executed person like wings.
This method of execution was applied to enemies captured during military conflicts, and in some sources it is described as a method of revenge (for example, for murder).
This was considered a sacrifice to Odin, therefore the valknut is an indispensable attribute of such an altar and is associated with this god.
In terms of its meaning, the valknut most likely reflected a certain “path of the warrior”: from earthly existence to Valhalla and the meeting with Odin.
Archaeologists have also found valknut on weapons and armor. Presumably, the sign was also applied as a ritual tattoo to warriors sent to death, that is, into a battle from which there was an extremely small chance of returning.
Obviously, in this way the warrior was prepared in advance for the afterlife.
BY THE WAY! It is curious that during the period of such ritual use the very name “valknut” did not yet exist. It appears in literary sources dating from around the 14th to 15th centuries.
History of the amulet.
Images of Valknut were found on ritual objects, rune stones, many of which date back to the first century AD. Most often it could be seen on funeral urns, so some researchers believe that it was a funerary symbol.
The Valknut sign consists of three intertwined triangles. This could mean the path of a warrior whose life was divided into three main periods: first he was an ordinary person, then he became a warrior, and after death he would become one who would join Odin's feast.
Scientists are still not exactly sure of the very name of this sign or its true purpose.
Valknut still remains the most mysterious symbol left to us by the Vikings.
Interesting historical facts
Valknut was revered by many ancient peoples:
- Slavs;
- Scandinavians;
- Celts;
- the British;
- ancient Egyptians;
- Germans.
The symbol itself was known at least in the 9th century AD - among archaeological finds dating from this time, a gold ring decorated with the sign of a valknut was discovered. Although the name valknut officially appeared only in the 14th century.
Each nation endowed the amulet with its own properties:
- The Scandinavians believed that the symbol brought victory in battle, so they depicted it on weapons.
- The Vikings depicted a sign near burial sites so that the soul could enter the afterlife.
- The Celts considered the valknut a sign of strength, power, so those who wanted to emphasize their right to power depicted the sign on clothes and jewelry.
- The British wore the sign as a talisman.
The use of the symbol has survived to this day, for example, during his reign, Hitler used the sign as a symbol of the invincibility of the “German Reich”.
How the Vikings used Valknut
He was considered a link between the world of the living and the world of the dead. Warriors applied this symbol to clothing or armor before the main battle. They believed that if they died in battle, the soul would find its way to Odin. It was believed that the “knot of the dead” gave access to knowledge from three worlds: Midgard - the world of people, Asgard - the world of the gods and Hel - the world of the dead. The intertwined triangles symbolized the unity of these worlds.
It was applied as a talisman to a certain object. This item then helped direct thoughts in a certain direction, switch attention and concentrate on the right thing. Valknut served as a talisman and came to the rescue when it was necessary to make the only right decision in a difficult situation. Constantly wearing the symbol endowed the owner with extraordinary strength and wisdom beyond his years.
With wings
This variation of a triangle tattoo does not have a specific meaning; the wings give it meaning.
In Ancient Egypt, this symbol meant the greatness and power of one with wings. This body design is suitable for a person who wants to emphasize strength and influence.
Three unities of Valknut
For modern man, Valknut symbolizes:
- The unity of three worlds or spaces - heaven, earth and the underworld. These worlds, like the edges of intertwined triangles, never connect, but are always nearby. The symbol helps to obtain secret knowledge of all these worlds.
- The unity of three times: past, present and future. The image of Valknut allows initiates to penetrate into any period of existence, helps to look into the past and learn about the future.
- The unity of body, spirit and soul - all this together means a symbol of life.
Women
For the owners, the body image in the form of a triangle can mean different things, it depends on each individual sketch. More often it emphasizes the following qualities:
- desire for light;
- maternal characteristics, the ability to give new life;
- chastity and prudence;
- incredible wisdom;
- self-control.
Girls often get a triangle tattoo on their arm. Men prefer to do it on the shoulder or calf.
You can get sketches of tattoos from photos provided on the Internet or directly in a tattoo parlor.
Who chooses the Valknut tattoo and why?
The history and mystical meaning of this symbol looks very attractive. The image itself attracts the gaze of many. The symbol conceals the unity of worlds and times, this gives it special power. You need to accept such a powerful sign into your life with great caution.
The Valknut tattoo is often chosen by people who are interested in mysticism and ancient knowledge. Those who seek to understand the laws of existence, who are concerned about the topic of death and the processes associated with it, stop at this sign.
Sometimes people in this way demonstrate their love for Scandinavian mythology and involvement in something special.
Two triangles in a composition
Two correctly placed triangles can form a double geometric figure, representing the six-pointed star, the seal of Solomon.
The semantic meaning of the seal: the elimination of contradiction, the onset of harmony, the unity of opposites, for example, the harmony of positive and negative in the world, masculine and feminine, and so on.
Two triangles that touch at their vertices represent the Moon, its waxing and waning, symbolizing the eternal cycle - the change of death and life, death and resurrection.
The meaning of the Valknut tattoo
Knowing the history of the symbol, you need to understand what such a tattoo can become for the owner:
- a guide for obtaining secret knowledge;
- an amulet for protection from negative influences from the outside: damage, the evil eye, curses;
- source of energy and vitality;
- a generator of difficulties and obstacles in life;
- a possible cause of adverse consequences (for those who treat it without due attention).
Triangle tattoo designs
In this section of our catalog, we invite you to look at triangle tattoo designs , regularly updated by us and offered for your review (selection), at the very bottom of the page. If, in addition to searching for a sketch for a triangle tattoo, you are looking for more information, we are ready to offer the following materials:
- Photo of triangle tattoo
- Meaning of triangle tattoo
Sketches of triangle tattoos – worthy design options for a future tattoo
Interesting about triangle tattoo designs
A triangle is a geometric figure that appears in various cultures and also has specific meanings. Today, the triangle has earned significant popularity among tattoo designs. This symbol carries mystery and uncertainty. The sketch of a triangle in a tattoo is most often complemented by other figures.
The triangle is a universal sign; it is suitable for application to both women and men. Depending on who gets the tattoo: a man or a woman, it will be interpreted differently. For a girl, this drawing will reflect the main stages of life: youth, motherhood and old age. For men, the triangle characterizes the main masculine qualities: wisdom, greatness, strength.
Often, young people in love look for sketches for a triangle tattoo before applying a tattoo. The triangle, in this case, means the unity of two loving hearts. It is possible to develop a paired sketch that harmoniously complements each other.
A triangle tattoo symbolizes the essence of a person, which consists of mind, soul and body. Masters who are well versed in the meaning of symbols understand a triangle to mean a certain cycle. Each of the three sides shows a continuous cycle - birth, life, and death. This chain of human existence goes in circles all the time.
The important thing is which part of the body the tattoo is applied to and what is depicted on it. Often, you can see a tattoo where the triangle appears as a component of some other figure. For example, when a triangle is inside a circle or a square is inside a triangle. Such tattoos are appropriate on almost any part of the body. A great place for the image is the shoulder blade, back, shoulder and neck.
Triangle as a sketch for a tattoo and religion
Such symbols are of great importance for people associated with religion. Christians by triangle mean the triad of Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Masons interpret in their own way, namely light, darkness and time. Each nation and community has its own interpretations and designations. This tattoo will appeal to people who love everything mysterious and mysterious, previously unknown and unexplored.
Popular sketches for drawing are isosceles triangles. You can decipher the meaning of tattoo triangles ad infinitum. It all depends on how the triangle is depicted, what its shape is, and what is nearby. A tattoo like this will always look fashionable and interesting. The design must be selected depending on personal preferences, as well as in consultation with the artist who will apply the tattoo. The following are photo sketches of tattoos with the triangle symbol.
Popular options:
- eye in triangle
- On the hand
- tree in triangle
- three triangles
- deer in triangle
- inverted triangle
- Masonic triangle
- on the neck
Interesting triangle tattoo designs from 10/30/2016
Watch the video
Prepared by: anna-o (Anna)
tattoofoto.com
The meaning of the Valknut tattoo for men
Valknut should not be taken solely as protection. The power inherent in it can bring challenges to a man's life. These tests are given to test and strengthen character in order to give impetus to spiritual and physical development.
For powerful and strong men, this tattoo can help develop people management skills. Human weaknesses will be more clearly visible, and ingenuity and knowledge will help in solving problems in everyday life and business.
Just keep in mind that the symbol itself will not solve the problem. If the bearer of the tattoo is weak in character and does nothing to overcome difficulties, then the symbol begins to lose its strength, its power and connection with other dimensions disappears.
Use as a talisman
Valknut has still not lost its popularity. It is used:
- as a talisman;
- to reveal your magical powers;
- improve memory, attention;
- find your purpose;
- cope with a serious task, not be afraid of difficulties.
The amulet is suitable for both men and women, but it is not recommended to be worn by children - it can drain energy from them. Following the example of the ancients, the amulet is used in the form of a stripe on clothing or as a decoration. It could be a ring, pendant, pendant, earrings. It is better for the sign to touch the skin - this will maximize its protective properties.
For an amulet to be beneficial, it must be made of noble metals (gold, silver) or natural stone. Since it has strong protective properties, be sure to leave the amulet for 2 hours in a saline solution (2 tablespoons per 1 glass of water) once a week - salt draws out the negative.
If you have a choice of buying an amulet or making it yourself, then it is better to do it yourself. Pros of making it yourself:
- the talisman proves itself in tests and, after being made independently, will consider its owner a real warrior;
- you can be sure that the amulet is made correctly, the way the owner needs.
The disadvantages of this method include the labor intensity and complexity of the work.
The meaning of the Valknut tattoo for girls
Girls do not put this symbol on themselves very often. The mysticism associated with it evokes respectful awe and even fear in some. A girl who decides to apply Valknut to her body must be ready to overcome difficulties and problems. She will need all the strength of character to go towards her goal.
If a girl is not afraid of obstacles, this sign will serve as an incentive for her to develop intuition and the gift of foresight, will help her become wiser and wisely use her natural qualities.
What does valknut mean in the runic circle?
Often the symbol is depicted in a runic circle - it is believed that this way it gains greater power (in ancient times they did not use runes, this is a modern version of the image). Each rune symbolizes the accumulation of experience and wisdom, movement and development.
There are 4 types of runes used for the runic circle:
- fehu - allows you to find out your purpose;
- turisaz – helps to move towards the goal, does not allow you to go astray;
- uruz – gives energy and strength to move towards the goal;
- dagaz – completion of the cycle, transition to a new stage.
Watch the lecture on runes:
Types of Valknut images
There are two types of images:
- three triangles of the same size are intertwined;
- triangles are made with one broken line.
In tattoo designs, this symbol is most often black. Other dark tones are used less often. The size and style of the image is chosen by the customer.
In a classic tattoo design, the meaning of the image is primarily pursued. A simple graphic drawing is quite suitable for this.
Increasingly, customers prefer originality and some artistic appeal. In the photos in tattoo parlors you can see three-dimensional Valknut patterns, color shading inside the triangles, as well as Celtic script in addition to the main design.
Types of symbols and their appearance
Valknut consists of three equilateral triangles that are connected to each other.
Depending on the method of their connection, there are 2 types of valknut outline:
- Odin's intersecting triangles. As a result, the illusion arises that two rows of triangles are formed: external and internal. With this outline, the upper left triangle is located above the right one;
- intertwining triangles. They are made up of a single continuous line. In this case, the two upper triangles in the symbol are located at the same level.
BY THE WAY! The value of the valknut does not change depending on the style. Some change in meaning is observed only from the addition of runes to the sign.
Suitable places to apply a Valknut tattoo
Much has already been said about the mystical influence and energy of this sign. Therefore, special importance should be given to choosing a body area for a tattoo. You should not apply the sign to the heart area. Valknut deprives a person of peace and can cause health problems and provoke heart disease.
The general principle for choosing a location is below the heart area. These could be wrists, hands, fingers. At the request of clients, tattoo artists draw a symbol on both the legs and chest.
The most correct place, from an energetic point of view, is the solar plexus area. The Valknut will intensify the energy flows that are concentrated in this place. You definitely should not get a tattoo for children and people with poor health. It remains to be reminded that any tattoo must be approached wisely. This is especially true for the Valknut tattoo.
The desire to decorate your body with an unusual sign, to show your passion for Scandinavian mythology, the desire to have a magical amulet directs your gaze to Valknut. Its power can bring dramatic changes to life. Let these changes improve your life.
Upside down
Recently, the inverted triangle tattoo has become popular. This symbol did not have much meaning for a long time, but at the moment it is associated with:
- the opposite value of a standard triangle. Such a symbol began to mean the desire for chaos, non-standard behavior;
- irrationality of thinking, refusal of standards, high creativity.
Eye tattoo in a triangle is one of the most popular female designs on the body.
The most common triangle tattoo is its image with an eye in the middle, a sort of all-seeing eye. Looking at the image of a tattoo with an eye in a triangle, dual feelings arise that are characteristic of mysticism and inexplicable phenomena. The meaning of this image is interpreted as insight or enlightenment of consciousness, although outwardly the eye is limited to the sides of the triangle. Specific directions in religion take a drawing in the form of an eye in a triangle as the basis for their symbols, because each religion has its own vision of the world around us. Many cultures consider the tattoo of a triangle with an eye inside to be a symbolic image intended to observe everything that is happening.
