Symbolism of the Valknut (a.k.a Hrungnir s heart,
heart of the slain, Heart of Vala, borromean triangles)
The emblem at left found on old Norse stone carvings
and funerary steles, is sometimes called
“Hrungnirs heart,” after the legendary giant of the Eddas.
It is best known as the Valknut, or “knot of the slain,”
and it has been found on stone carvings as a funerary motif,
where it probably signified the afterlife.
The emblem is often found in art depicting the God Odin,
where it may represent the god’s power over death.
Some versions of the valknut can be drawn unicursally (in one stroke),
making it a popular talisman of protection against spirits.
The Valknut’s three interlocking shapes are suggestive
of related Celtic symbols of motherhood and rebirth;
it may have been a goddess symbol at some point in history.
The number 9 also evokes the 9 Worlds, Fates of Norse mythology.
Their interwoven shape suggests the belief
of the inter-relatedness of the 3 realms
of earth, heaven, hell, and the 9 domains they encompass.
The Valknut is also an important symbol
to many followers of the Asatru religion,
who often wear it as a symbol of the faith.