Getting a new tattoo (tattoos nordic) can be a difficult process, especially if you’re looking for design inspiration in foreign cultures. Sometimes, people want to show off their appreciation of a certain culture by going for its traditional symbols as a tattoo design. But, this is usually where things get tricky.
Sometimes, certain cultural symbols are only reserved for the members of the specific community and can be culturally appropriative when used by someone outside the said community. Other times the symbols can be offensive and inappropriate, or even used by hate groups to show off supremacy and racism. That is why, prior to getting a tattoo, it is important to do thorough research.
Now, chances are that, if you’re reading this, you’re looking to get a Nordic-inspired tattoo, which is cool. But, there are certain Norse symbols you should definitely stay away from. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the Nordic tattoo symbols you should avoid!
Nordic Symbols To Avoid Getting Tattooed
Norse God Odin Symbol
Odin is the main god in Norse mythology and probably the best-known Nordic mythological god around the world. It serves as an inspiration for all things Nordic as well as for different characters, games, movies, and of course, designs. Odin is known as a war God as well as a symbol or god of death.
As such, he is often depicted as a warrior, surrounded by ruins or Valhalla. Because of such symbolism, some people see Odin as the patron of warriors, rulers, as well as outlaws. Such symbolism of course attracts problematic people in real life, which brings us to the actual reason you should avoid getting an Odin tattoo.
Well, it is known that some white supremacist groups use Odin or Odin’s two ravens, Huginn and Muninn, as their main symbol. The two ravens are often placed on white flags to symbolize the wards that will be led to defend the white race, religion, and other things associated with white supremacy, like racism.
So, unless you want to be associated with the Ravens of Odin group, then you should definitely avoid getting an Odin or Odin’s ravens tattoo. These symbols are even questionable in the Scandinavian countries, so make sure to keep this in mind. The designs could be offensive and considered racist.
Thor’s Hammer Symbol
Thor’s hammer is probably one of the most recognizable symbols of Nordic mythology. It is an Old Norse symbol that got popularized by the modern superhero movies and adaptation of Nordic mythological stories. However, this hammer symbol isn’t only a harmless mythological symbol. Because of its significance (tattoos nordic) and symbolism, Thor’s hammer is nowadays adopted by outlaw biker groups and white supremacist groups in Europe, North America, and elsewhere.
Now, experts in the Nordic mythology and Viking history don’t think people should stop going for Thor’s hammer symbolism. They believe people should reclaim the ‘hammer’ from the hate groups and groups that try to ruin Viking heritage.
However, it’s not really recommended to get Thor’s hammer tattoo, especially if it’s really visible. You could be easily associated with the hate groups and considered a hate-mongering member of the community. But, if you do follow the advice of the experts and do decide to go for this tattoo design, make sure to have an explanation ready in case someone finds your tattoo offensive.
Valknut Symbol
Valknut is a Norwegian word used to describe three interlocking triangles. The word translates as ‘knot of slain warrior’, and the symbol is associated with the god Odin as well as with war, death, and the dead. Above all, Valknut generally symbolizes the afterlife as well. Unfortunately, this symbol is nowadays used by hate groups, neo-Nazis, and white supremacists to show off their readiness to fight and loyalty to the white power group.
Valknut is also one of those symbols that was stolen by the Nazis, and to this day is associated (tattoos nordic) with neo-Nazi groups in Germany. The Valknut symbol is often accompanied by Thor’s hammer or the Odin imagery to further turn these initially benign symbols into symbols of hate, racism, and white supremacy.