Aegishjalmur
Ægishjálmur, also known as the Helm of Awe or Helm of Terror (Old Norse: œgishjalmr), is an item from Norse mythology and later the name of an Icelandic magical symbol. The symbol, as used in the sagas, originates from the Huld Manuscript, which was compiled in 1847. It was part of a Christian-magical ritual with some roots in Icelandic culture, although similar rituals were widespread across Christendom.
In the Völsunga Saga, a magical item called the "Helm of Awe" is mentioned, which Sigurd takes from the hoard of the dragon Fafnir after slaying him. It is also referred to in Fáfnismál, stanza 16 of the Poetic Edda:
"The Helm of Awe
I wore before the sons of men
To defend my treasure;
Among all, I stood alone strong,
I thought to myself,
For I found no power that matched mine."
The Ægishjálmur is often associated with the ability to overcome fear, which is why warriors used it as a talisman for protection in battle.
ÆGISHJALMUR SYMBOL - HISTORY AND MEANING
History of Ægishjálmur The Ægishjálmur symbol was frequently seen among Viking warriors for the reasons mentioned above. They would draw the symbol between their eyes before heading into battle, sometimes even using blood to mark the symbol on their foreheads.
Legend has it that marking this spot interacted with the pineal gland, which was considered the center of the Viking soul. In grimoires, the pineal gland is also referred to as the "third eye."
In ancient Icelandic folklore, the symbol could also be made from a small piece of lead. This would be pressed between the eyebrows, and the warrior would recite the following:
Ægishjalmr er eg ber milli bruna mer!
I carry the helm of awe between my eyebrows!
The name Ægishjálmur is derived from Ægis, a sea giant who was a feared and powerful figure known for sinking ships and seizing treasure. It is suggested that the symbol's association with the sea represents the unstoppable force of nature, akin to what the Ægishjálmur symbolized: strength and courage.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE ÆGISHJALMUR SYMBOL
The Ægishjálmur is a Nordic symbol commonly associated with protection from various threats, including sickness. The symbol often appears with eight arms and spikes surrounding a central circle, as if protecting it from all sides. The Old Norse name Ægishjálmr translates to "Helm of Terror."
In old Icelandic grimoires and 19th-century manuscripts, it is mentioned that the Helm of Awe was drawn between the eyes of warriors to instill fear in their enemies. The symbol was believed to grant invincibility, as shown in the story of the cursed dwarf Fafnir in the Poetic Edda.
This symbol also appeared in multiple versions. Some sources depict it with four trident-like arms, while the more widespread version from 17th-century grimoires features eight arms surrounding a central circle. The Ægishjálmur is believed to be more powerful when it is marked with the wearer's saliva or sweat.
ÆGISHJALMUR SYMBOL AND ITS MEANING
The Ægishjálmur is widely regarded as a symbol of courage, protection, and strength. Viking warriors wore it, often drawing it between their eyebrows, believing it would ensure victory over their enemies. Just the sight of the Ægishjálmur was thought to instill fear in their opponents.
The ends of the trident-like arms in the symbol are referred to as the Z-Rune, which is said to symbolize protection and victory in battle. The central circle is believed to offer protection to those who carry the symbol.
In addition to being a talisman for battle, the Ægishjálmur also symbolizes life courage and fearlessness in the face of obstacles.