Valknut the Knot of Those Fallen in Battle

The Valknut Rune

By entering a state of trance, engaging in chants, and potentially even harnessing the energy of sexual magic, individuals practicing magic and shamanism during the Viking era purportedly possessed the ability to manipulate the thoughts of others and manipulate the threads of destiny to align with their own wishes. Their potent blessings bestowed strength upon their warriors in preparation for combat, while their curses inflicted devastating blows upon their adversaries. These shamanic practitioners left behind a symbol from antiquity known as the Valknut, which symbolized their mystical abilities.

The Valknut, a symbol deeply rooted in Nordic mythology, consists of three interconnected triangles. Its name, “Valknut,” meaning “slain warrior knot,” was coined in modern times in the Norwegian language. However, the symbol itself has ancient origins and is associated with the reverence for the deceased. An artifact featuring the Valknut symbol was discovered on the Tängelgårda stone in Gotland, Sweden, dating back to the 7th century. Typically found on tombstones and runestones, the Valknut triangles often accompany depictions of Odin or his symbolic animals, such as the horse or wolf.

Origin

Historians have put forth various theories regarding the origins of the Valknut symbol. This symbol, closely associated with Odin, a highly respected and influential deity in Nordic mythology, is believed to represent his mastery over ecstasy. Odin, often referred to as the “Master of Ecstasy,” held great authority in realms such as wisdom, warfare, poetry, shamanism, magic, and the afterlife. With his magical prowess, he possessed the ability to manipulate and influence the thoughts of others by means of binding and unbinding. The Valknut, therefore, serves as a visual representation of this enchanting power.

The ancient Norse tradition of shamanism and magic, known as Seidr (pronounced SAY-der), was predominantly embraced by women. Men who dared to engage in such practices faced severe persecution, as it contradicted the established social norms of Germanic society during that era. During the rituals, the female practitioners would join together in prayer, chant, and enter a trance-like state. It is believed, according to certain accounts, that these rituals may have involved the utilization of sexual energy and stimulation, commonly referred to as sex magic. The ceremonial staff utilized in these practices bears a resemblance to a phallic symbol, as documented in various Nordic writings. By attaining an elevated state of consciousness and journeying through the Nine Worlds, these practitioners possessed the ability to manipulate the fabric of reality and its interconnected threads. This extraordinary feat allowed them to catch glimpses of the future and successfully manifest their desires.

Within the Norse mythology, there exist the Nine Worlds, each encompassing a distinct realm inhabited by various beings. These realms consist of humanity, deities, giants, ice, fire, elves, and the deceased. Additionally, the Nine Worlds are interconnected and sustained within the branches of the Yggdrasil, the world tree, which holds great significance in the spiritual beliefs of the Norse people. Odin, the prominent figure in Norse mythology, traverses between these worlds by riding his horse, Sleipnir, through the branches of the world tree.

Snorri Sturluson’s Prose Edda mentions Hrungnir’s heart, which is believed to have a connection to the Valknut. Hrungnir, a giant representing darkness, winter, night, and death, possessed a heart made of stone with three sharp corners. Despite the lack of intricate visual depiction, this interpretation of the Valknut’s origin is not widely accepted.

The Valknut, with its three triangles and nine points, is believed to represent fertility, rebirth, and reincarnation, while its interlocking triangles may signify the interconnectedness of Earth, Hel (the underworld goddess ruling over Helheim), and the celestial realms.

Other Signficant Symbols

Another symbol, known as the Triskele, carved in stone and dating back to ancient Celtic and pre-Celtic eras, bears a resemblance to the Valknut. This symbol, associated with the sun, the afterlife, reincarnation, and even pregnancy, holds significant meaning.

A variant of the Valknut known as the Triceps symbol is a less commonly recognized symbol that shares similarities with the Valknut, featuring a triangle shape formed by three diamonds. Originally, it held significance as a symbol of magical protection, but today it is embraced as a symbol of the Asatru, which translates to “the belief in the gods.” Asatru represents a contemporary resurgence of the Norse pagan religion and has gained popularity across North America, Europe, and Australasia. The foundation of this movement lies in the ancient Germanic people’s pre-Christian belief system, where followers worship multiple gods and goddesses. The ultimate objective of Asatru is to lead a meaningful existence. Rather than conforming to modern moral standards, adherents prioritize Nine Noble Virtues: truth, courage, discipline, honor, fidelity, hospitality, perseverance, industriousness, and self-reliance.

The Valknut, a symbol cherished by countless individuals, holds immense importance and harbors profound emotions. As time passes, the meanings associated with it can become intricate, embodying ideas that appear extraordinary or even otherworldly in our modern perspective. The ancient Nordic shamans, in their wisdom, bequeathed us the Valknut as a representation of their mystical abilities. This symbol serves as a constant reminder of their extraordinary power, the power to manipulate the course of fate!