Overview on Loki Symbols
Loki, otherwise known as the mythical Norse trickster god, is typically associated with symbols involving snakes, serpents, mistletoe, and runes, all of which have become popular jewellery pieces and decorative items, as well as tattoos in the modern age.
Although different Loki symbols might mean different things and whether you decide to wear them as tattoos, jewellery, and clothing, or use them as decorative items like wall hangings and artwork – you can certainly bring an element of mystique and supernatural allure into your life.
What do different Loki Symbols mean?
Before we shed light onto the various Loki Symbols and their underlying meaning, we should at least grasp a basic understanding of the role Loki plays in Norse mythology.
Loki, much like Tom Hiddleston's character in the Thor films, is usually portrayed as a trickster or a shape-shifter of sorts, someone who's relationship with other mythical gods is ambivalent and ambiguous at best. He is considered neither entirely good nor completely evil, but rather, trapped in a morally obscure space. He's known for his cunning wit and deceitful nature, where he might be aiding one of the mythical gods one moment and creating turmoil the next.
And so, it's these complex character traits that are quite well-reflected in the various Loki symbols we are about to cover.
The Norse Symbol: Binding of Loki
The Binding of Loki happens to be one of the most well-known Loki symbols, representing Loki's punishment for causing Baldur's death, a very beloved god in the mythical universe. In this symbol, you might notice how Loki is bound in chains, where a serpent right above him drips venom straight onto his face, causing him immense pain and torment.
This symbol can represent Loki's duality, as he has been held directly responsible for Baldur's death and all the while a victim of torment himself. However, Binding of Loki also represents the consequences of his deeds, reminding everyone who fashions this symbol that actions indeed have consequences and repercussions.
The Loki Sigil
The Loki Sigil is widely recognised as a contemporary Loki symbol in Norse mythology. Rather than being deeply rooted in historical artifacts, this symbol originates from a more modern context as it was created for avid devotees of Loki. It's also a part of the Rökkatru belief system – a system which honours the Jötnar (giants) and other mythical figures who are typically regarded as adversaries in Norse mythology.
The Loki Sigil depicts a stylised flame which mirrors Loki's element of fire. This is very befitting for Loki's role as both a helper and hindrance to the gods, as fire itself often depicts transformation and destruction.
This symbol also represents the transformative power Loki has, reaffirming his shape-shifting abilities and the changes he can bring about.
Loki's Knot
The Snartemo V, also called Loki's Knot, was first discovered in the 6th century. The symbol contains intertwined loops looking like a closed 6-loop square knot.
The interpretation of this symbol is linked to Loki because of its intricate, knotted design – this is a direct reference to Loki's deceptive nature and his penchant for misleading and entangling others in deceit. Even though the Snartemo V is widely considered by Norse mythology experts to not directly portray Loki, it still loudly echoes his character traits and general role.
Rune representations
Many runes have been associated with Loki, although none of them have been explicitly labelled as “Loki's Rune”. However, two runes in particular, Hagalaz and Kenaz, have often been linked to Loki.
Hagalaz, the disruption rune, is linked to Loki owing to its association with chaotic and disruptive forces. Loki seems to fit this symbol perfectly as Hagalaz is almost a mirror reflection of the disruptive events in Norse mythology that Loki is so famous for.
Kenaz, the beacon rune, is associated with Loki as well because of its associations with fire. The rune represents enlightenment and knowledge but also destruction, key traits found in Loki's character.
The Serpent Symbol
Loki's actions led to the death of Baldur (mythical god of light). As punishment, Loki was bound deep underground where the god's used Narfi's intestines to bind Loki while placing a venomous serpent right on top of this head. The serpent would drip venom onto Loki's face as punishment.
This symbol is not to be confused with the Binding of Loki even though it also involves a serpent.
The serpent symbol is a stark reminder of Loki's deceitful and cunning nature which, ultimately, led to some really nasty consequences.
The Wolf Symbol
The symbol of the world is also deeply rooted in Loki's character in Norse mythology, as it represents both his appetite for destruction and his wild, untamed nature. Loki's offspring (Fenrir) embodies these traits perfectly, representing immense ferocity and strength, as well as a spirit that is wild and free in nature.
Fenrir, therefore, is seen as a giant wolf emitting cold light from his eyes, an ode to his father's traits and characteristics, so to speak.
Goats – Are they also a symbol for Loki?
In Norse mythology, specific animals have been tied to certain deities although the goat does not have any connection with Loki. However, the goat is closely tied to Thor, the mystical god of thunder, according to Norse mythology.
While Thor, protector of the gods and mankind, has been linked with the goat, Loki has been linked to different animals throughout Norse mythology. For instance, he has been associated with a mare and salmon, as Loki can shape-shift into various creatures in order to get out of tricky situations.
Closing thoughts: How to decipher Loki Symbols
Gaining a thorough understanding of what the various Loki Symbols mean in Norse mythology comes down to a lot more than just knowing what kind of physical shape they take. As such, it requires keen, in-depth knowledge of Loki's deceitful, multifaceted character and the underlying Norse culture through which the symbols came about.
As we have discussed, each symbol is a direct testament to Loki's deep and complex character, not to mention his deception and tricks, or the chaos that eventually follows.