For those of us who wear one, it is a symbol not just of ideological association and veneration of Odin but a literal dedication of our lives to His service. While I might wear my Mjolnir pendant more often than my valknut, I always wear it on a Wednesday. It is specifically a symbol worn by those of us (like myself) that are dedicated to Odin. In a modern context, as far as Heathens are concerned, it is a religious symbol. There are differing theories backed by good academics. It does appear to be related to honoring battle-slain warriors but again, that's speculative. We know there is a clear Odinic association but what it actually meant is speculative. Historically speaking, we don't really know what the symbol meant. I can tell you that it is commonly done by people of the Not A Fuckhead variety as an expression of the troth they hold with Odin. Now, if you're asking why others have gotten theirs, then you'd have to ask them. In other words, it's just like any other bit of ink. If you have a reason for permanently marking your body with the symbol, then that's what it means to you to get it tattooed. If it doesn't have any greater significance to you than being a nifty image to use then that's all it is. Getting a tattoo of a valknut means that you got a tattoo of a valknut. Much worse is when it is identified alongside racism/anti-semitism/any group or ideology that demeans Asatru. I wouldn't be personally offended if I saw someone wearing it who was just making a fashion statement, because the majority of people walk around wearing religious symbols without the slightest clue what they really mean, but it is an easy way to identify an idiot. No one should wear it at all without some understanding and appreciation of that. Possibly representing the cyclic nature of everything and rebirth after Ragnarok.Īs ProudNotherner points out it is very much a Norse pagan spiritual symbol Tied to a people their beliefs just like a crucifix or a Star of David. The other way is the Unicursal Valknut which is one continuous line. Possibly the 9 points of the triangles represent the nine worlds. Firstly, represented in the Stora Hammars stone, the Borromean Valknut is three triangles that intersect. It's also interesting to note that the Valknut is drawn two different ways. So maybe the Valknut represents the journey between worlds that occurs on death, not specific devotion of oneself to Odin or even the amusing "Insert spear here". In this image there is a stronger case to be made that the Valknut represents a bond with Odin, but it still seems to be more about the immanent journey their spirits will undertake to me. This is pure speculation now, but maybe the Valknuts in this example are arranged at opposing angles because not all of those men will make it to Valhalla/Asgard, some will go below. Some believe that it is Odin on the horse, I don't think so because he also holds an Oath-ring. Presumably they are swearing allegiance to their leader and to Odin. In the second example, The Tängelgårda stone, the Valknut appears beneath the horse of a man leading his troops. To me this usage of it represents the link between worlds. The Valknut is angled as if it represents the skyward travel of the victims spirit after death. In the Wiki page for the Valknut we can see it on two archaeological example on the right.įirst is from the Stora Hammars stone which purportedly shows a ritual sacrifice with the Valknut above the victims head. I pledge the fullness of my life, My fealty to the Lord of Strife, I choose to wear the knot of death And give myself with every breath. With points and sides of three times three As Ygg´s nine nights upon the Tree It marks me willing sacrifice, Rewarded as I pay the price Īs I pass ecstasy and pain I lose myself, myself to gain This sign of fire, way and aim, Leads me through darkness and through flame. here is a little reading material i found a while back. Ultimately its up too you what you do, I hope my rant helped you in some way. I personally wear it on my arm and have no regrets, i did have some powerful dreams for days upon getting the tattoo that only strengthened my faith. So if you were to get it, be ready for a debate with someone on why you're wearing it, or an ass beating by some narrow minded fuck. As TheInundation posted the pic of the white supremacist in the picture, they would be something to watch out for as well, if they deem you unworthy of wearing it, you may have a bad day. Personally i would get insulted by meeting someone wearing one on their skin that didn't dedicate their life for what that symbol stands for. I personally would discourage any one that's outside of the religion of getting it. I'm going to start off by saying that no one can stop you over the internet of getting what you want.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |