Runic compass meaning description history of creation. Compass tattoo. Meaning of compass tattoo. Sketches and photos of compass tattoos. The meaning of the compass tattoo on the zone

Runic compass , or, as it is also called, Vegvisir, refers to to the ancient Galdrastavs (magic signs) and literally translates as “Way Pointer”.

This sign is both a seaman and a helmet of horror. Despite the fact that it was first used back in the 19th century - in practice it became much older. What is its significance? There is an opinion that the one who wears this sign will be able to find the only correct outcome anywhere. Even in severe bad weather. And he will receive help of mystical forces.

Galdrastav, like other similar staves, looks like an eight-pointed cross. There is an opinion that thanks to his arrows he illuminates the path to all directions of the world.

Runic compass Vegvisir is an Icelandic symbol in origin, which, as the writings of ancient books say, allows you not to go astray while traveling. Which, as you understand, is especially important for sailors and frequent travelers.

The mention of the runic stave was found only once - in the Hulda manuscript. Everything else is the invention of numerous magical runologists.

The Hulda manuscript is a whole collection of specially created amulets. It dates back to 1800. Yes, this is quite a long time ago, but much later than the Viking Age. Therefore, it is difficult to say that the stave was used by the Vikings to protect their ships. By the way, Vegvisir is often confused with a similar sign - Agishjalm.

The meaning of the amulet among the Slavs

Our predecessors no less actively used the amulet and even made it with amulet Vegvisir . At the same time, the Slavic meaning coincided with the Scandinavian one - the amulet helped a person find the right direction and find happiness.

The Slavic people believed that becoming had strong protective properties. And its owner will find the right path under any circumstances. Of course, this amulet is more suitable for men, as it develops their sense of purpose and courage. However, it can also be used in women. The runic compass mysteriously pushes you towards the right path.

The meaning of the Vegvisir tattoo

Scandinavian tattoos quite often depicted on the body, as there is an opinion that they will have the greatest impact on a person. The runic compass is the most popular of all Scandinavian themed tattoos.

Vegvisir is chosen not only by sailors and those who travel frequently or want to change something in their lives or find a way out of a difficult situation.

However, before you decide on a runic compass, you need to study it. Since the energy of the runic stave is very strong, not everyone can cope with it. Moreover, not every person is ready for the changes that becoming one will bring to his life.

It is believed that in ancient times the symbol was applied to the body mainly by hunters and those who travel a lot. He protected and at the same time warded off troubles, and also showed the right path. Even despite the storm and other mischiefs of the weather, the runic compass never deceived and always pointed to the right path. According to eyewitnesses, the symbol often warded off trouble and allowed one to stay alive.

The meaning of such a tattoo is the search for the only right path.

Who is the tattoo suitable for?

A person who chooses such a tattoo is brave, decisive, and knows how to achieve goals. If such people have a desire, they will pursue it to the end. Even if it takes several years. He overcomes any troubles with dignity and is not afraid of any difficulties in life.

Is it possible for girls to get tattoos?

Most often this tattoo is done by men. A tattoo adds courage, bravery and determination to them. Especially if they love traveling and are attracted to distant countries.

Scandinavian Tattoos include a large number of variations, ranging from runic writing to images of gods. Northern Tradition tattoos have a rich history with magical influences. There are tattoos that are as close as possible to authentic Viking tattoos, while there are patterns that are made using modern techniques, although they belong to Scandinavian myths. In our article we will examine in detail the various branches of Scandinavian tattoos and the types of tattoos of the northern peoples.

Scandinavian Tattoos and Their Meanings

Rune Tattoo

  1. Runes- a system of signs and writing of the peoples who inhabited the territory of Scandinavia. The runic alphabet is called Futhark. Runes were used both as writing and as a system of magical signs. According to legend, God Odin sacrificed himself to get the runes.
  2. Tattoos with runes include:Galdrastavy tattoo -a more complex system of signs. The most popular galdrastavs are the “helmets of terror”, which the Vikings used as weapons against their enemies, suppressing their will and instilling fear. Such designs could be seen on armor, amulets, and weapons.
  1. Rune tattoos include a subspeciesrunic ligatures. Elm, unlike runes and galdrasts, is not an independent sign, but a combination of several runes. In different combinations, runes can acquire new meanings and serve to benefit their owner.

World Tree Tattoo

The world tree in the minds of the Vikings was a huge ash tree, which they called Yggdrasil. According to legends, the tree connects all worlds and is a unique structure of the universe. There is a wise eagle at the top of the ash tree, a dragon in the roots, deer at the branches, and a squirrel running along the trunk. The source of wisdom and the source of all rivers are hidden in the roots.

World tree tattoo meaningthat its owner studies the structure of the universe, that he accepts and is interested in myths and northern tradition. The tree is a symbol of knowledge, wisdom and path.

Tattoo One

God Odin is the supreme god of the Vikings, wise and cunning, creator and all-father. Odin was a shaman, warrior and sorcerer. One is depicted without an eye, which he gave in exchange for wisdom. His eternal companions are the ravens Hugin and Munin (Thought and Memory), the wolves Geri and Freki, and the eight-legged horse Sleipnir. The weapon of the god Odin is the victorious spear Gungnir, which never fails.

Tattoo with the Supreme God of the Vikingssuitable for people who seek the patronage of Odin. To whom all the qualities of the Forefather are close. The tattoo will harmoniously suit a person who is courageous, a leader, ready to take risks, strong in character, and wise.

Crow Tattoo Hugin and Munin

Odin's ravens often become the subject of tattoos.Crowsis a metaphor, thought and memory that fly around the world and help to understand it. Such a tattoo will mean that a person is prone to reflection, the search for truth, and knowledge of the universe.

Hugin and Munin

above the world all the time

fly tirelessly;

I'm scared for Hugin,

worse for Munin, -

will the crows return!

Valkyrie Tattoo

Valkyries are winged warrior maidens in Scandinavian mythology. For the Vikings it was a great honor to die on the battlefield, in battle. It was the Valkyries who carried the dead warriors to the halls of Odin, to Valhalla.

Valkyrie Tattoosymbolizes the courage of a warrior, the willingness to fight to the bitter end, and accept his defeats with honor.

Tattoo Ornaments

Scandinavian ornamentspreviously decorated armor and weapons. The Vikings, by the way, were lovers of tattoos. It was the ornaments and ligatures that became one of the first body decorations of the warlike people. Ornaments and scripts similar to them carried a sacred and magical meaning. Such a tattoo could protect its owner in battle, bring him wealth or the favor of the gods.

In the modern world, tattoos with ornaments can be of an aesthetic nature, but they can also carry the qualities of an amulet or talisman.

Viking Ship Tattoo

As you know, the northern peoples were outstanding navigators. They built ships on which they managed to sail to the Mediterranean Sea. According to one version, even America was discovered by the Vikings, even before Columbus's expedition.

The ship symbolizesdecoction, search, thirst for novelty and conquest, discoveries and new lands. the ship was manually controlled by a crew, which in the modern world can be metaphorical. That is, a person is the captain of his own destiny, but without the help of family and friends it is difficult to achieve many goals.

Runic Compass Tattoo

Vegvisir or runic compass- This is an ancient Viking symbol. As you know, the Vikings were good sailors. They believed that a runic tattoo would help them not to go astray and guarantee the help and protection of the gods.

Thor's Hammer Tattoo

Thor in Scandinavian mythology is the son of Odin, the god of thunder and storms, the protector of all gods.Thor's Hammer, Mjolnir, is so heavy that only Thor can lift it. The hammer blow causes thunder and lightning. Replicas of the hammer were popular in Scandinavia, and people wore them around their necks as amulets. They were also used in sacred ceremonies - weddings were consecrated with them. They were placed under the bed of newlyweds so that they would have many children.

A tattoo can also be made as an amulet to gain the protection of one of the strongest Scandinavian gods. The hammer also symbolizes destruction and creation, since it could be used to both kill and resurrect.

Tattoo Sleeve in Scandinavian Style

A sleeve tattoo is most often a combination of runes and ornaments. The faces of gods may also be depicted, surrounded by elements and runes.

. The “spoon” was created from . The base was wide.

It was installed on the plate, while the handle hung in the air. It served as an arrow pointing south. By the 21st century, several types of devices have been created. Each of them gives inspiration to masters. In this article we will tell you what their creations mean.

Meaning of compass tattoo

“True to the pole, like a compass needle.” This proverb is common among sailors, travelers, and geologists. For them, a compass means reliability. The interpretation inspires couples in love. They paint an image of the device, not the body, as a sign of fidelity and the correct vector of their feelings.

Compass tattoo meaning has also for people obsessed with an idea, a goal. The tattoo is done so as not to go astray, not to betray your ideals. Not only a standard, but also a runic compass can help you find the right path. It was created by the Scandinavians. They arranged their writing in a circle.

Symbols, like the arrow of a magnetic device, can indicate direction. At least the Vikings were sure of this. They applied runic compass tattoo on the forehead during storms and long voyages. The drawing, however, was not driven into, but drawn on top of it.

Viking compass tattoo was done in case of loss of a regular device. Without him, the team and I were helpless. Meanwhile, there are many known cases of disappearance of on-board guidebooks.

“Runic compass” tattoo, used by magicians. The scheme was originally created by the Varangian tribes. In fact, the composition resembles a circle with alphabetical and used in the ritual of summoning spirits. This occult ritual is common in. The Scandinavians also asked questions and waited for an answer from the compass, composed of .

Viking runic compass tattoo, rivaling Lo Pan in popularity. This is a pattern used by feng shui practitioners. Like the runic version, the device is not limited to geographical data.

Lo Pan - compass, tattoo sketches which provides information about the horoscope, the main elements and more. The cardinal directions in the diagram are not 4, but 8. The median indicators are taken into account, such as Southeast, Southwest, and so on. with Lo Pan indicate a scrupulous nature, interest in the culture of the Asian continent and “Feng Shui”.

Compass tattoo for girls

Ladies rarely choose compass-themed tattoos. , making the device their distinctive sign, are often placed on. In this case, the compass replaces the dial. To make the analogy clear, a strap is drawn. As a result, a happy person does not observe, but always knows the right direction of her life.

-, which often complements girlish compass tattoo Photo body paintings with orchids emphasize femininity and grace.

Compasses in the form of, instead of standard circles, are also intended to highlight the lady’s virtues. Ladies perceive the device as a kind of device, but want to improve its strict forms.

The compass was created by men and its design, unlike the outfits of Dolce and Gabbana, is rarely satisfied. So additional symbols and tricks come into play.

Compass tattoo for men

Tattooing is historically considered. Women, as a rule, led a sedentary lifestyle. Representatives of the stronger sex went on military, trade, and reconnaissance campaigns. They felt the need for help finding the right path. For American actor David Duchovny, the right path was to give birth to his daughter.

Dotes on the soul. In her honor David made compass tattoo on hand. The inscriptions North, East, South on the device are standard, but instead of West there is “Wet”. This is the name of the actor's daughter.

Men usually choose sketches with magnetic models. In this case, the guys clearly understand What does a compass tattoo mean?. Understanding ancient runes or dozens of Lo Pan fields is simply not for everyone.

The ethnic groups that created them prefer to puzzle over such images. Accordingly, the Feng Shui compass is popular among gentlemen, and the runic pattern is popular among the inhabitants of Scandinavia.

Popular compass tattoo designs








Compass tattoo on bicep

A compass is designed to show direction to travelers. The device has retained its meaning in the symbolism of tattoos. However, its concept has been expanded and supplemented by related topics and interpretations.

When choosing such a symbol, focus on internal perception. The most successful choice of sign is always associated with the personal symbolism of the wearer.

Meaning of compass tattoo

The compass tattoo first appeared in the old school direction in the 19th century. This is a traditional thematic image whose meaning cannot be lost. The compass was not just a symbol, the sign protected the souls of sailors from various dangers of the changing elements of water.

The sea was believed to be filled with various inhabitants. These entities can harm a person’s consciousness and soul. The creatures that the sailors believed in had the power to confuse reality.

Perception distorted by their influence could lead to errors in calculations and actions. Therefore, the compass was an image that served as a talisman against such influences.

Today, the compass has a meaning that denotes the force of change. It is used by people who love travel and tourism. The meaning of the picture symbolizes freedom of choice, knowledge of true purpose and a sense of inner direction.

Popular stories

On the skin of 19th century sailors, the design was made in the form of a primitive design without detail. Occasionally it was supplemented with flowers, for example, the compass pattern is still considered an old school classic.

In addition to this addition, the theme of the wind rose tattoo is popular in modern tattoo culture. It also relates to the theme of travel and finding your place in life.

For connoisseurs of marine themes, a compass and anchor are a priority. This is the second most popular symbol after the compass rose. It is interpreted as a search for risk and bright colors of life.

A popular subject for drawing is a compass map tattoo. This drawing concretizes the interpretation, emphasizing the meaning of the love of travel.

No less interesting is the runic compass tattoo. The Scandinavian symbol has a second name - vegvisir. In Viking beliefs, the runic compass had the meaning of divine protection in finding a way among unfavorable conditions.

The so-called “shield of horror” is inscribed in the vegvisir; the sign was found near the settlement of Birka, carved on stones. This pattern protected from open and secret enemies, as well as from mystical entities.

For connoisseurs of oriental themes and mystical natures, the lopan compass tattoo will suit. In the practices of the East, this complex device made it possible to determine not only the cardinal directions, but also favorable zones. There are more than 500 signs on the dial of the lopan; they provide orientation by magnetic fields, stars and energy veins.

Men's tattoos

Tattoo culture is cosmopolitan, which means it is possible to apply a design to a representative of any age and status. However, the compass design changes meaning depending on gender.

So for men the symbolism means:

  • symbol of fidelity and constancy;
  • determination and focus;
  • aspiration for success, self-realization;
  • love of travel;
  • Confidence in your strength.

Most often, the symbol can be seen on the skin of men who have reached a certain age. The drawing is popular among audiences aged 25 and older. This is directly related to the conscious choice of drawing as a way to find one’s place in life and confirm one’s achievements.

Women's tattoos

For representatives of the fair sex, the design has the broadest interpretation. He presents a lot of surprises to those ladies who chose a tattoo by chance.

Often symbolism is tied to the internal perception of the world. But in some cases it is just a skin decoration without meaning.

For girls, a tattoo with a compass means:

  • freedom in relationships;
  • adventurism;
  • love for random turns of fate;
  • inconsistency in interests;
  • search for a spiritual path;
  • lopan - a philosophical approach to existence;
  • runic - protection from dark forces, esoteric practitioner.

Variations on the theme of the compass are chosen by women seeking to find protection in practices. For many ritual actions, a compass is necessary, since the arrangement of objects is necessarily oriented to the cardinal points. The compass is applied to the skin in order to establish an indestructible connection between the energy fields and the soul of the wearer.

Compass tattoo locations

Depending on the details of the interpretation changes. So the meaning of a hand tattoo carries the meaning of finding a way. A tattoo on the shoulder with a similar design emphasizes the passion for travel. A design applied to the shin or calf area makes it easier to find your life path.

The tattoo is applied in the areas:

  • on the wrist;
  • on the forearm;
  • on the foot
  • on the neck.

In the neck area, the symbol emphasizes that the owner is confident in his intuition and conscious choice. This sign emphasizes strength of spirit and knowledge of one’s purpose. The drawing simultaneously performs a protective function. It blocks the path of influences that can cloud the mind.


  • Half sleeve tattoo, photo from: https://www.instagram.com/p/BXISnP1A_1B/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
  • Arrow and compass tattoo on arm

  • Compass tattoo in trash polka style

  • Compass tattoo - burst on the back
  • Compass and map tattoo on forearm

  • Compass tattoo on hand

  • Runic compass tattoo - vegvisor

  • Compass tattoo on a girl's side

  • Compass tattoo on forearm


  • Old school compass tattoo
  • Tattoo with inscription and compass Compass tattoo on hand

The image of a compass in the area above the heart emphasizes the search for a spiritual path. The image preserves the harmony of a person’s conscious and sensory experience. The drawing acquires the same meaning when applied to the shoulder blade.

When looking at photos of compass tattoos, the sketches can be divided into several groups. The most popular are realistic images. Schematic drawings are included in the list of directions:

  • old school
  • oriental
  • and Chicano.

Men's tattoos are often made in these styles.

To successfully create a sketch, pay attention to color. It is better to select the saturation of the gamut and the choice of palette according to skin color. The lighter and more transparent it is, the richer the choice. The shape and style depend on the structure of the body.

The choice of area will directly dictate the shape and type of expression of the drawing. Consult a tattoo artist, he will help you determine the best option for your capabilities.

Video - photo gallery of compass tattoo

A tattoo with the image of a Vegvisir means fidelity, life, devotion, protection, amulet, path, search, journey, finding your destiny, movement, masculinity, perseverance, strength, endurance, perseverance, courage, assertiveness, determination, good luck along the way.

The meaning of the Vegvisir tattoo

A tattoo depicting a Vegvisir is popular among experts in Scandinavian culture, mainly among men, as it is considered a masculine symbol.

In ancient times, Scandinavian hunters and travelers applied a similar design to their bodies as a talisman. They believed that the vegvisir would protect them from adversity and other troubles, and would also show them the right path on their journey.

The Vegvisir itself is a runic compass in the form of an eight-rayed cross. Each of its rays points to a certain direction of the world: north, northeast, east, southeast, south, southwest, west and northwest. This compass helped to find the place where the wanderers were heading.

He never made a mistake, even in bad weather conditions he showed the right path. Vegvisir helped its owner overcome natural disasters and emerge from them, while remaining alive.

The owner of a tattoo with the image of a Vegvisir is a very persistent, purposeful person. If he has something in mind, he will make his idea come true, even if it takes years.

He will go towards his goal, despite any obstacles or troubles, with dignity passing through all the difficulties and trials encountered on his way.

One of the meanings of the Vegvisir tattoo is the search for one’s true path. People who think about their destiny, about which direction to move next, what to choose, where to find their place, often choose the vegvisir sign.

They need support from above to make the right decision and move in the right direction, which they receive thanks to the Celtic symbol. Such a tattoo will fill its wearer with self-confidence, energy, and the desire to create new worlds and fulfill their dreams.

Also, a tattoo with the image of a Vegvisir is suitable for those who like to explore the world through travel. Such people are very mobile, do not like to sit in one place for a long time, are unpredictable, spontaneous.

They can point their finger at a map, select a place and immediately head there. Vegvisir will help them avoid difficulties along the way and show them the easiest way to travel. It will also protect you from troubles and bad weather conditions.

The Vegvisir tattoo is very popular among both men and women. The male part of the population usually chooses this symbol as a sign of masculinity, brutality, assertiveness and confidence.

And girls tend to interpret the meaning of vegvisir as finding one’s own path, making the right choice and fulfilling one’s cherished dreams. Often a vegvisir tattoo is chosen as a talisman for well-being, good luck and protection from evil forces.

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