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06.11.2019

Vegvisir, The Viking Compass/The Runic Compass

The Vegvisir, also known as the runic compass or Nordic compass, is a symbol composed of eight runic staves and is associated with protection and guidance. It is believed to have been used by Vikings as a compass or a wayfinder. The word "vegvisir" itself means 'wayfinder' or 'signpost' in the Icelandic language.

While the Vegvisir is commonly referred to as the Viking compass and is often linked to the seafaring voyages of the Vikings during the Viking Age, there is some debate about its true origin.

There are two main sources that mention the Vegvisir: the Huld Manuscript compiled by Geir Vigfusson in 1880 and The Galdrabok, another manuscript considered to be a grimoire, or a textbook for magic.

In the Huld Manuscript, the Vegvisir is briefly mentioned as a symbol of guidance and protection. The text suggests that the wearer of this symbol will not lose their way during storms and bad weather, even if they are unaware of their destination.

It's important to note that the Huld Manuscript was compiled nearly ten centuries after the Viking Age. While some parts of the manuscript may be based on authentic knowledge of Norse beliefs and practices, it should be approached cautiously. Taking its contents literally without further research or corroboration may not be advisable.

The Vegvisir remains a symbol of interest and is often associated with the rich cultural and mystical heritage of the Vikings, but its exact origins and significance continue to be subjects of discussion among scholars and enthusiasts.

Vegvisir, The Viking Compass/The Runic Compass

Some parts of the knowledge in the manuscript in question is inspired by folk traditions and the one regarding the Vegvisir might be one of those parts according to the experts.

The second source mentioning Vegvisir, the Galdrabok, is a grimoire, a book of spells which details randomly-compiled spells and provides knowledge about magic, the Germanic gods of the time and cosmology.

In the Galdrabok, it is written that this symbol would help its wearer to not get lost and find their way back. According to the Galdrabok, to provide guidance and protection, the Vegvisir should be drawn in blood on a person’s forehead – just like the Viking symbol of protection, the Aegishjalmur, the Helm of Awe would sometimes be.

Many people confuse the Vegvisir with Aegishjalmr, the helm of awe and terror although the two symbols are quite different from each other.

Although there is no certain knowledge of the Vegvisir’s origins and when it was used the first time, some people believe the symbol was used for navigational purposes by the Vikings.

Vegvisir, The Viking Compass/The Runic Compass

Archeological findings revealed that the Vikings used a ‘sunstone’, a sun compass of sorts while they sailed around the world from North America to Far East.

While the said sun compass does not look anything like the Vegvisir and/or have such markings on it, it might be the inspiration behind the symbol according to some experts.

It is believed that the eight Icelandic rune staves comprising the Vegvisir could be representing the cardinal (North, South, West, East) and intercardinal directions (Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, Southeast).

Some people believe that a nail placed right in the middle of the Vegvisir would tell of directions (through its shadow’s position at certain times of day) and help the Vikings navigate the seas.

On a side note, in some legends, it is mentioned that the Vegvisir/the Nordic compass would be drawn on Icelandic ships to help them find their way back and come back home safely.

Today, the Vegvisir is used as symbol of Icelandic culture while people of Asatru faith also use it to identify themselves and as a symbol of spiritual guidance.

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