Icelander REACTS to VIKING TATTOOS
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- čas přidán 14. 06. 2021
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I'm Icelandic and it bugs me so much that all these Americans are what not are calling it cultural appropriation or offensive or whatever, stop trying to speak for a culture you don't understand and let individuals from that culture speak about how they feel. Stop feeling offended for us.
It’s become all too common for people to be offended on someone else’s behalf.
*Not all Americans, just liberal ones.* As an American, I can tell you American liberals are always offended at something, even historical statues. It's goes with political correctness, and is a type of mental illness, and now they're ripping our country apart with their "cancel culture." American conservatives are not a part of that idiocy, and we're a very divided country. So, please don't think that it's an "American thing."
My own view is that if someone genuinely appreciates and respects your culture, then there's no harm. Having said that, Neo-Nazis that use Viking symbols are not showing respect to your culture and are offensive.
@@craigh.9810 As an Australian, I find this comment hilarious.
@@jeffreywebb2692 so true!!
Agreed, true culture is universal. Because otherwise it looks ridiculous i.e. you cannot celebrate St. Patrick day if you are not Irish, you cannot drink vodka if you are not Russian and etc.
Americans: Arguing whether or not it's cultural appropriation to use Viking symbols.
Me, a scandinavian: Couldn't care less, but this is entertaining. *getting popcorn*
I know right lol
No only the crazy left Americans are the ones complaining, I have vikingr tattoos plus my father is from Norway.
Lmao
This is what is happening in America right now. All of us Americans are so not oppressed by anyone or anything that some segments of our society are making up reasons to be offended and it's turned into the oppression Olympics over here. Everyone wants to be oppressed more than everyone else. Be glad it's not happening to your people. Be very glad.
Speaking of which, people need to understand the difference between ethnicities and nationalities.
I’m Swedish and Norwegian and I honestly love seeing how many people are embracing my culture. Personally I love it
Ellery, you do understand that these tattoo symbols are not "Nordic" or "Scandinavian" perse but Germanic, don't you?. And that most of the people in the video are of Anglo, Saxon, Frankish or Frisian descent by the looks of it. And that they are as Germanic as the white people from Scandinavian countries? So, it is as much their culture as it is yours. The DNA of the Germanic people living in the USA is mostly unchanged.
@@tiwaz4598 Well said. Sad how few people know and understand their genealogy and lineage.
@@tiwaz4598 yeah it really irritates me when people say your family has been in America for more than 2 generations so it's not your culture
@@tiwaz4598 They weren't saying anything against this tho? I don't understand why you info dumped? I'm not trying to be mean I simply do not understand
@@tatsuhirosatou5513 your culture is the one you have and use, and actually acknowledge, not what your ancestors used hundreds of years ago, or am I wrong?
If you embrace a new culture and leave behind another one (instead of keeping both) it's not your culture anymore. But you can recover it back, that's awesome. Embrace again what our ancestors knew and made.
And people who don't share our ancestors are also welcome to learn and embrace it, I don't believe in the cultural appropriation term.
Honestly, it doesn’t matter what other people think. If people get offended, it’s their issue.
You came here to create your own meaning in life and not live a life in society’s frame and limitations.
If you love the tattoos and understand their meanings and apply it to the way of how you live life, do it.
Culture may be a reference but it’s more important for you to crystallize yourself out of it, becoming your own unique version
Crazy how “In” this “Viking” culture has become. I’m Norwegian, my last name is literally Vike lol. I say “culture appropriate” all you want, who gives a shit?? Someone likes your culture so much that they want to embrace it? Oh no, what terrible people…
Too much is made of loving a culture and even one’s own DNA, made of it being a bad thing. I don’t get it. To me it seems to be not only an honor but if a person feels connected then let it be connected, as this is all good. I am Irish-German-Norwegian-Anglo Saxon, and probably a few other northern European mixes in there and the only thing that bugs me is removing red haired people, we Gingers, from these Marvel and Disney remakes, and anywhere else we are seen as the acceptable DNA to marginalize now. We have always been spoken of as witches, outcasts, trouble makers, clowns, devilish, bad luck. I was not acceptable until I was a teenager, and even then I felt outside. So, that is all I have as a complaint about appropriation which is to say we Gingers are dis-appropriated and are replaceable in any and all Disney-Marvel etc. remakes and remodels of folk tales of my heritage and wherever we can be replaced by anything not of red hair (any of our many shades) -freckle-green eyed people. We have feelings. We all do see where and why we are removed and replaced by as far opposite as possible. Why? Why is OK to continue Ginger fear? Now, a look at my being an American of the South it is pretty normal that my hybrid blood is all recessive going straight into cultural origins. I am more linked to Norse-Viking tattoos and dress than anything else, yet have no tattoos because having freckles, red hair of all shades in each season as it changes with the seasons and green eyes just because I like my freckles. If I did want tattoo it would be a Saint Patrick Crucifix with all the green and gold, and something related to my first name “Howard” which is Gaelic for protector of the woods. So, I agree that there is nothing to be outraged about if a person loves your culture enough to wear symbols of the land and heritage. It is an honorific not a slander.
I still lack history of Scandinavia country . how is formed and development to one king ? Which one country start a war in 800 A.D. ?
@@arga8371 we reached the point where I'm not even sure if you're trolling or not lol. Scandinavia is a region, it was never a country (though Norway, Sweden and Denmark shared the same king through the XV century). It's like saying "Indochina" or "Middle East" or "South America"
@Mickael Vike: Well im a saxon in Canada, but my family goes back to viking lands settled and colonized in England, Ireland Scotland and some Germany. Anglos came from Germania if im correct. I have adopted the Icelandic and Nordic culture and people into my Family and Beliefs, i pay tribute to the gods nd the lands and i also feel their connections and my ancestors.
The icelandic and Norse cultures are beautiful and very mystic and rich in folklore which i believe your/our gods do exist and just the way they lived and the beliefs of the Pagans is the best way to live...freedom....family......love.......hard work and survival with progress made form struggle. Skol to our ancestors Skol to the gods and Skol to the Icelandic and Norse peoples and thank you form mingling ith my ancestors:):) you are all my brothers and sisters anyway.
We are seeing a rise of "fembois" and not all of us like that subculture. Like in history, every wave of social role degradation has met its end by those reinforcing the biggest stereotypes.
So, a wave of femboys gives rise to manly viking dudes ( and girls)
I love how everyone just ignores ancestry. If someone has Germanic ancestry, they are literally biologically attached to the cultures that inspired these tattoos. Who cares about where you live in 2021?
Well said brother.
I didnt even know i was mostly Finnish and German until I did my DNA lol was brought up to think i was irish and italian...
Right that’s like Italians saying we can’t use Latin
I'm German, Norwegian etc
Hey guess what everyone in the world is part Norse Vikings have been found everywhere and even today we are finding more and more about we’re they went and settled
To be a viking is in the blood and in the spirit.
If you feel the spirit of a viking in you, go for it with my blessing.
You got a token viking card from me 😆
Keep being true to what you are 💚
The gods themselves dwelt in Asgard. Some of them were of the mighty Asa−race: Valfather Odin, and Frigg
his Queen; Thor, the master of Mjolner; Balder, the good; the one−handed Tyr; Brage, the song−smith. Idun
having the youth−giving apples, and Heimdal, the watcher of Asgard. Others were mild and gentle vans:
Njord, Frey, and Freyja, the goddess of love; but in the midst of Asgard in daily intercourse with the gods, the
serpent Loke, the friend of giants, winded his slimy coils.
To these gods our Teutonic ancestors offered sacrifices, to them prayers ascended, and from them came such
blessings as each god found it proper to bestow. Most of all were these gods worshiped on the battle−field,
for there was the home of the Teuton. There he lived and there he hoped some day to die; for if the norns, the
weavers of fate, permitted him to fall sword in hand, then would he not descend to the shades of Hel, but be
carried in valkyrian arms up to Valhal, where a new life would be granted unto him, or better, where he
would continue his earthly life in intercourse with the gods.
Happy gatherings at the banquet, where the flowing mead−horn was passed freely round, and where words of
wisdom and wit abounded, or martial games with sharp swords and spears, were the delight of the asas.
Under the ash Ygdrasil they met in council, and if they ever appeared outside of the walls of Asgard, it was to
go on errands of love, or to make war on the giants, their enemies from the beginning. Especially did Thor
seldom sit still when he heard rumors of giants; with his heavy hammer, Mjolner, he slew Hrungner and the
Midgard−serpent, gave Thrym and all that race of giants bloody bridal−gifts in Freyja's garments, and
frightened the juggler Loki, of Utgard, who had to resort to his black art for safety. Thus lived the gods in
heaven very much like their worshipers on earth, excepting that Idun's apples ever preserved them fresh and
youthful.
But Loke, the serpent, was in the midst of them. Frigg's heart was filled with gloomy forebodings in regard to
Balder, her beloved son, and her mind could not find rest until all things that could harm him had sworn not
to injure Balder. Now they had nothing to fear for the best god, and with perfect abandon and security they
themselves made him serve as a mark, and hurled darts, stones and other weapons at him, whom nothing
could scathe. But the serpent Loke was more subtle than any one within or without Asgard, whom Fimbultyr
had made; and he came to Hoder, the blind god, put the tender mistletoe in his hand and directed his arm, so
that Balder sank from the joys of Valhal down into the abodes of pale Hel, and did not return. Loke is bound
and tortured, but innocence has departed from Asgard; among men there are bloody wars; brothers slay
brothers; sensual sins grow huge; perjury has taken the place of truth. The elements themselves become
discordant, and then comes the great Fimbul−winter, with its howling storms and terrible snow, that darkens
the air and takes all gladness from the sun.
The world's last day approaches. All bonds and fetters that bound the forces of heaven and earth together are
severed, and the powers of good and of evil are brought together in an internecine feud. Loke advances with
the Fenris−wolf and the Midgard−serpent, his own children, with all the hosts of the giants, and with Surt,
who flings fire and flame over the world. Odin advances with all the asas and all the blessed einherjes. They
meet, contend, and fall. The wolf swallows Odin, but Vidar, the Silent, sets his foot upon the monster's lower
jaw, he seizes the other with his hand, and thus rends him till he dies. Frey encounters Surt, and terrible blows
are given ere Frey falls. Heimdal and Loke fight and kill each other, and so do Tyr and the dog Garm from
the Gnipa Cave. Asa−Thor fells the Midgard−serpent with his Mjolner, but he retreats only nine paces when
he himself falls dead, suffocated by the serpent's venom. Then smoke wreathes up around the ash Ygdrasil,
the high flames play against the heavens, the graves of the gods, of the giants and of men are swallowed up
by the sea, and the end has come. This is Ragnarok, the twilight of the gods.
But the radiant dawn follows the night. The earth, completely green, rises again from the sea, and where the
mews have but just been rocking on restless waves, rich fields unplowed and unsown, now wave their golden
harvests before the gentle breezes. The asas awake to a new life, Balder is with them again. Then comes the
mighty Fimbultyr, the god who is from everlasting to everlasting; the god whom the Edda skald dared not
I live in America and am a practicing heathen and my blood line traces back to Norman irish Scandinavian and feel connected to the norse gods!!!
Viking means to pirate and raid fast moving sailors that is the loteral translation while only 10% of Norway and 6% of England have Viking relatives many many more have Norse descendants who worshipped the old gods
Jävla danska potatis gris kasta inte runt vår kultur som om du äger den
😂
I'm an American I have viking tattoos. I love the history of viking culture. I love ancient roman history too and plan to get some ancient Rome inspired tattoos. I'm just fascinated by ancient history
Ave Roma!
Nero was just the WORST lol
Just add a tattoo of how WE kicked the Roman empire OUT of our territories! Conquer everyone else but stay away from OUR bloodline culture & family etc. Enjoy ur new ink
same man, i wanted viking & Rome inspired tattoos!
That is amazing! Sharing cultures is what we do.
As an Icelander, I LOVE seeing non-Nordic people proudly displaying their Nordic tattoos :) Just so fun when people are interested in your culture and history :)
If im russian and the area where kievan rus was located is my ancestry do you think its ok for me to claim that I am partly of ancient nordic decent? Because kievan rus was established my migrated vikings way back in the day then turned into kievan rus and eventually russia?
these are mostly croatian tattoos
I'm American but my bloodline is of Scottish and Northern Europe.
P.S. I HATE AMERICA
I'm not Nordic but all my ancestors were and as a pagan myself I personally don't see how someone could gatekeep iconography from others. Loki trashes Odin for practicing magic which was seen as feminine. Odin being Odin doesn't fucking care about what Loki has to say and keeps practicing magic.. Same applies here.
@A you can easily tell who is “non-nordic” by looking at them lol
The majority of people calling other people out for "cultural appropriation" don't even know what that it means.
it was a term coined by progressives to further and was weaponized by leftist.to segregate people for their propaganda...divide and conquer
Nope your just making excuses
@@tyroneloki5131 Exactly!
Is also smallminded nonsense. Everything we as species have is human culture, and is what we collectively share in this vast and uncaring universe.
@@tyroneloki5131 Well clearly you know. =)
I have a half leg sleeve of nordic/viking tattoos, I'm from the North West of England, never tested my dna I just love the stories, music, the way they dressed, the fact that they literally sailed the globe in search for unknown worlds without modern navigation and most people can't drive to another city without a smartphone or satellite navigation.
Well said my friend. Much respect
im sure like most of us from the British isles you will have a dash of Nordic in you!
English people had the same gods as the Norse prior to conversion bro
Whats the issue? You are literally germanic
If you are from northwest of England uou are almost in the middle of everything Viking
8:26 To those wanting a "Rune" tattoo, that's fine. But PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF ODIN think about the orientation. The meaning of the rune is determined by the orientation. For example, if you lift your arm to see Tyr upright and smile, just know that in the arm's normal rest position it's a reversed Tyr. The smile you get might not be the smile you want ;o)
greetings, the turizas rune can be negative
yeah thats my biggest fear about it!
*gets hagalaz tattoo, realises its inverse and have just condemned myself to destructive chaos with no greater change in sight*
Cue the darth vader "Nooooooooo" scene 🤣
lol, not everyone who's into runes is a follower of Asatru or weird modern mystical beliefs about runes. I'm into runes from a linguistic perspective. They are after all just letters.
@@Aprinsa Except that they are not 'just' letters. They arecand always have been symbols as well.
Okay I've been learning about Elder Futhark and bindrunes and had VERY limited info on meaning, orientation, and whats considered as a hidden rune in a bindrune.
With that being said, If Mannaz isnt considered as a bindrune of 4 different runes. Such as Ehwaz, Laguz L and R, Wunjo L and R, and Isa.
If Mannaz is not a bindrune, then what is considered as a bindrune?
“Cultural appropriation” lol. the concept of “you shouldnt embrace, pay tribute or recognize anything outside of your own culture and should only stick to your own kind otherwise its bad” just sounds racist to me lmao
@Mayhem Albas anyone with common sense. Which is sadly lacking these days
I think people get upset when people take something from another culture and then not tell people that they are wearing it or whatever because they were inspired by this, that and the other. They let people believe that they made it up themselves and then they get all of the praise and props. By all means get your Kudos, but mention who inspired it.
@@Cantetinza17 i think being “upset” should come from an atleast decent excuse to justify it. The heritage of a hair style, a tattoo, a piece of clothing shouldnt have to be explained to every single person walking down the street. Is someone ment to start a conversation with “hello everybody, my clothing is of Indian inspiration btw, how are you all today?” And the “invention” of some items or styles is so hard to dictate an origin that it wouldnt make sense. if a white person was to have dread locks do they need to explain that people associate dreads with african and asian cultures but is believed to be originated from Greek Europeans? If i see a white guy with a koi fish tattoo i dont assume he invented it and i will still give him props on a cool tattoo. I think to flaunt something of a different culture should fill you with pride not disgust and the insecure need to gatekeep.
You know that this is not what cultural appropriation is about, right? You can embrace, pay tribute and recognize things outside of you culture. What cultural appropriation is about is using aspects of an oppressed culture without reflecting what you are doing.
For example: Dreamcatchers are sacred symbols of some native american tribes. Over long periods of time the natives were forbidden to live their culture without repercussions. And still today many native americans are suffering because of that. So if you want a dreamcatcher, don't get at walmart, but from the people who actually symbol that actually is.
Another (and more nordic) example are the Sámi people. They were persecuted a lot in the past and are still being oppressed today. Instead of just getting a nice cool Sámi symbol as a tattoo, try to help the people and earn your tattoo.
@@execute92 So its more of where you got it and not that you have it? Just curious because i agree 100% with what you are saying and have always thought this. Why would i want some cheap crappy corporate made knock off when i can buy or earn the real thing. Support the real artists/ creators. The way you make it sound “cultural appropriation” is just another term for “poser”.
As a Māori, seeing tribal tattoos from my culture on other people does not bother me so long as they know the meaning behind their tattoos. I love explain the story behind it to tourists that have these tattoos because then they realize they are carrying either a legendary tale or an entire family tree that they've now been embraced to, on their body.
💕
Yes good point yes people need to know the meaning to do some research into it. Play the pentacle or the pentagram people think that satanic it’s like well what it really represents is earth air fire water - spirit, but then sadly some really positive ancient symbols have changed over time and now like the swastika is basically not accepted, looked upon negative; even though it was in Tibetan Native American cultures etc. tribal people
Maori tattoos are marvelous... The only Maori tattoo I disagree seen on people is the face chin tattoo that has to be earned in Maori culture... (If I know it correctly)...
Culture is something to be valuable for everyone... We could discuss so many things on cultural and historical periods etc that we could never end the conversation.... Greetings from Greece
Those tattoos are absolutely incredible.
@@apeirotanhomestead7197 I totally understand what you’re saying because to carry a tattoo on the chin (moko kauae) in Māori carry’s a huge expectation as the ceremony to attain one is like a declaration of your journey through your life and searching of who you are as Māori but really all you require to get one is simply to whakapapa Māori (be of Māori descent)
Thank you! As an American I have noticed this same thing. Everyone speaking for a culture and telling that group/culture how they SHOULD feel.
I think the problem is far worse here. Even the Europeans are telling us to shove our "wokeness."
People have become weak in this country. Our forefathers are ashamed.
@@fleatactical7390 Some Americans and Euro if they saw you wore these tattoos they will think of you as those people from 1933 like you know what I meant. But in fact this is only love for the culture
@@ValBoon997 I agree, it is love for the culture. But then you have control freak idiots who say others should do or say such things.
Not sure what you meant about your Nazi reference though... Do you mean the swastika being reappropriated?
@@fleatactical7390 Not the swastika since its not associated with the Vikings but the Sowilo rune and Thor's hammer. Nazis ruined this culture along with its followers like skinheads and those neo american nazis
@@ValBoon997 Ah OK I misunderstood. I haven't really associated the body art to Nazism as much as the cultural/mythological aspects, but now that you mention it, yes. Certainly the symbology used by the Third Reich.
I wouldn't say they ruined it though. Or rather, we shouldn't let them ruin it.
It's like the whole stupid argument here in the USA that the "thin blue line" shouldn't be used by police officers anymore because some tiny fringe group "stole" it. Ignore the riff raff and celebrate the original meanings and intent. Otherwise, the scum win and we lose.
My husband and I enjoy traveling, he's Corotation/Scottish, I'm Scottish/Danish, we met and live in the US. When we travel, we keep a record of our trips by getting tattoos. We recently visited Iceland and both came home with beautiful vegvisir tattoos. We have tattoos from all over the world and do it as a way to celebrate and remember the amazing places, cultures, people, family, and friends we hung out with along the way!
Love this idea!
The "cultural appropriation gatekeepers" are the reasons why "the ways" die! This is more than just culture. It's religion, belief, and ancestry. Just because you dont "look" a certain way doesn't mean that you can't honor your ancestors. Cultures thrive when they are SHARED!
Well said and agreed as a Keetoowa Cherokee native American it is on us to spread our culture so we don't die out though I am not of Nordic decent I respect it although there are some markings that no one outside of Keetoowa should get it is on us as a minority nation to spread our history so we can survive.
Pretty sure that was the church that did that. Just a thought.
@@broughttoyoubythelettery4478 the church is like surface rust. Gatekeepers are metal dissolving acids. We obviously still have the beliefs around so the church dont make religions die. They only make them suffer. The true killers are the ones within that do not allow new life to grow
It is literally the opposite circumstance of what you say. What you’re advocating is the disconnect of culture from our race/people - the deracination of our people.
This is unapologetically Nordic culture, of Nordic people. It’s is ‘weird’ and ‘off’ when non-Nordics claim it to be otherwise. There is no such thing as a ‘universal cult-ure’.
@@komaonacona8270 I get very worried that someday everyone will forget about Native American culture. All people eventually go extinct. It’s tragic, but that is the way things are. But people can always tell others who they were through beliefs, practices, & ideas being shared. I love hearing about modern people finding new information about ancient societies, but so often I wish we had more information & understanding. All cultures are beautiful & we should do our best to keep their memories alive
Nordic tattoos in my opinion goes so well with the skin. It's like the symbols were meant to be on the skin and always look bad ass
'yikes'
A lot of them were. There were some that were even meant to be on specific areas of the body. For example, the Ægishjálmr, or Helm of Awe, is usually tattooed either between the eyes, or on the arms, if i remember correctly.
@FREE WRLD ok pinhead lol
@@HAYAOLEONE Why did their comment offend you?
@@lavishlyvice Why do you think I'm offended?
As a history nerd, swed, and Viking reenactor/educator i feel it's awesome people want to embrace their roots and honor our culture. BUT!!! My biggest pet-peeve is people using symbols like the Veigvisir and calling it Viking. The vikings did not use the vegvisir, its a modern symbol compared to other sybols like the hammer and Valknut for example.
You're very kind and showed a lot of respect, I liked it
I don't think enough people realise that "vikings" as Hollywood portrays didn't really exist.....they were pre medieval Nordic farmers, fishermen, blacksmiths, carpenters, weavers (and every other trade) etc etc who would occasionally band together to raid other places for valuables...to go viking means to go raiding places by boat...its an act, not a culture or a race.
That said, if you want Nordic ink, great! I love it too - and there are no rules...do what you want with your body....and who could be upset? People who died 1000 years ago?
Nordic symbols look cool as tattoos.
They were sailing around trading and most of the time they didn't fight or raid anyone but when they found a town they could raid without any problem they did..
... England 😅,.. they really took over our country we even had a viking king, Alfred the Great fought back well but vikings pretty much took over the north, exp York
@@SvensktTroll There was a joke about vikings and English monasteries I can't quite remember. While you are right about Hollywood, the Norsemen were fierce warriors and they had their fair share of raids and battles during the viking era. And you can see their love for fighting even in their religion. If easy pickings were always appreciated, they didn't back down from a fight. Sadly we will never know everything about them.
I realized I replied by accident to you, but oh well.
That depends on which of the vikingr you are talking about. The Danish were absolutely conquerors, the norsk and swede where more the farmers....Swedish more than the norwegians.
@@T1nA10 Think you need to read about Jórvík, so you can learn more about York
Even though I'm a very large, long haired, bearded man that looks like I could be an extra in a historical documentary or even the show Vikings, I still have been "called out" for my Helm of Awe tattooed on my elbow because I live in Texas not Iceland. To the cultural appropriation crowd...I AM of Norse ancestry. I am a practicing Heathen and pagan. I am a combat veteran and believe and live by the warrior ethos. It is MY beliefs. It is MY skin...and if you don't like it.....come and take it from me. I'll be waiting.
My guess is that people are angry more because of the meaning interpreted behind them than because of cultural appropriation. Norse symbols are commonly used by Neo Nazis and racists, the Nazis really corrupted the meaning behind lots of things. I'm not saying you shouldn't have them, especially if it's your religion, but a lot of people can take it the wrong way, ya know?
It's not bc of how you look, it's bc of where you live aka USA and Texas which a long history of being extremely racist despite being in a Hispanic state, so yes people will find weird or shocking seing Nordic tattoos outside of a Nordic environment especially in a cowboy one, but you do you
@@kyomademon453 you do realize vikings came to the US long before Columbus and they were a traveling /concurring race not to mention we're all mixed
you said it perfectly.
@@ironhead9507 yes obviously that's true, but it's the interpretation behind the tattoos that are making people upset. Texas and Scandinavia are two VERY different places, and Texas has a history of being very racist and far right. To see a person in Texas with a tattoo from halfway around the world, that also is used by hate groups is obviously gonna make some people suspicious.
I have mainly Irish and German blood, and when I learned that Vikings actually existed in Ireland for round two centuries raiding and setting up settlements. I became fascinated with Norse mythology and Vikings and I’ve been doing research and reading and I want my first tattoo to actually be ouroboros and I plan on getting more tattoos like that, but I was actually struggling to decide if it was OK for me to get the tattoo at all. I wasn’t sure if some people might find it offensive, so I pretty much shelved with the idea but after watching this video, I think I might actually get the tattoo
This popped up in one of my searches and I was thinking "oh great, a click-bait, Influencer 'reacts' video about tattoos,' this will be a mess." WOW I couldn't have been more wrong. You make amazing content and I couldn't subscribe quick enough! My grandmother came through Ellis Island from Sweden and since she died, my Uncle and I have been working on the ancestry for her side of the family. I'll definitely be looking forward to your content.
I'm Icelandic and I absolutely love when people are interested in the culture and Norse mythology because I think the culture and mythology are so cool and unique. Cultural appropriation is virtue signaling bullshit. Enjoy and learn other cultures, partake in other cultures.
I'm so glad you feel that way. I'm going to Iceland In October, and while I'm not planning to get a Viking-inspired tattoo, I am planning to get a tattoo which says Petta Reddast. Sorry, my keyboard won't support the correct first letter for Petta, so I had to make it up... :)
@@nataliehowe6213 sounds like an awesome tattoo. I hope you enjoy your trip !
We should not disconnect our race from our culture - we should celebrate and protect our ethnicity.
Nordics should have Viking tattoos, and non-Nordics shouldn’t it’s just as ‘weird’/‘off’ as a Nordic getting a Samoan tattoo.
@@meganaxeliar I completely disagree. I don't think you have to be from a culture to learn, celebrate and love that culture. I adore Japanese culture but I'm not of Japanese heritage.
Someone is not going to get a Nordic tattoo and not know the meaning or have a connection and love for the Nordic culture.
@@torilynne_xox
I do partially agree with you however, it’s one thing to learn, explore and enjoy foreign culture, and another thing to rob, ‘appropriate’, sell or represent it as one’s own. I only have a problem with the latter.
This is an important issue for all ethnic people in the world. For Nordic peoples specifically, our ethnicities centralize around this Viking culture, history, ancestry and traditions. Therefore to deny it from being our own, instead being “anyone and everyone’s who enjoys it”, is to deracinate and disconnect Nordics from our own ethnic identities.
It’s important the culture stays ‘ethnic’ + ‘strong’, not ‘nobodies’ + ‘dissolved/weak’.
The comment section is hilariously entertaining.
Imagine caring about whether strangers approve or disapprove of the tattoos you want to have.
Right go get a ethnic culture tattoo and go to the toughest hood they totally think the same as you and totally won't chase you down.
@@levithorstone2876 Low iq response.
@@levithorstone2876 then they will be Kyle Rittenhoused.
Thank you.... 👍 from a tattoo artist.
@@SimoneDora Bet you don't hold the same opinion when it's a non-Euro person sperging about appropriation.
I really enjoyed this video, I really love looking at tattoos for one, and for two, I enjoy your videos in general. I’ve got a back tattoo situation going on that is a combination of my heritages from paternal and maternal lines. I didn’t go entirely Nordic or Native American or Scottish, but somewhere in between the 3. Something unique for myself that represents me and my lineage and my spiritual beliefs. Awesome tattoos in the video here! Thank you for sharing it all with your thoughts on everything ❤
If you do it with respect and knowledge, that’s cultural appreciation.
Remember that every culture, even the most ancient, has "appropriated" things from another culture. So lets try to resist the urge to start suing each other. Without "cultural appropriation" we would still be living on trees. As a Greek I will like to allow people to tattoo anything Greek related on their bodies. Its much worse when people stop caring about your culture.
I think that is beautifully said. Rome would literally be nothing if they didn’t take ideas from The Greeks
@Trinity M They were talking about evolution. Every human comes from apes. We learned to walk upright to leave the trees. I think every culture is beautiful, but that’s why he idea of cultural appropriation worries me. If people do not share their ideas then racism gets worse & eventually cultures will die. Racism will get worse because if people are not sharing their ideas then they will be othered.
@Trinity M That's different though. People who want to give out their culture, and those who have had it stolen from them are different. Things spread, but it's usually not big things because that culture already has a big thing. I hope that makes sense.
@Trinity M most of the knowledge we have about indigenous culture comes from the West. Nobody takes afrocentrics serious because they don't really care about history, they just want to spread some kind of racial superiority
@Trinity M wtf ,this has nothing to do with you
Speaking as a person of Nordic Decent, 13% of the voters are "Karens"
@wowalinbie Karen is now used as a derogatory name...13 percent... interesting, you like percentages with a name?
I love u Brother...
@@marktotham6193 The joke.
Your head.
@@JohnDoe-og2bt you so clever...have to go read a dictionary now
@@marktotham6193 The term karen is used for people who would for example complain about someones tattoos in a way 13 percent of the votes on the pole in this video would. As an explanation quickly typed without trying go be a butt about it.
Also Swedish and a Viking fan, and can safely say most of us just love that people are embracing our Ancient Nordic culture and show it via Tattoos/Hair/Beard/Jewelry , It's simply awesome . Soon going to be traveling through the mountains of Northern Norway, through northern Sweden, ending in northern Finland, and then getting on a plane to Iceland. Can't wait to chant ''My Mother Told Me'' in ancient norse from the mountains with my friends 💯
You vibe with your tribe. It doenst matter where your from but how you feel. If it speaks to you, learn about it and use it to make yourself a better person. Great video!
I live in Iran and I'm obsessed with viking culture. I have Fenrir on my forearm with a moon 😶
My home is in the North and yet, the old weave and art from Iran reminds me of home. The way the animals are represented and the patterns from the equivalents of ancient Iran killims looks like the Överhogdal tapestry of Sweden much, showing Yggdrasil and Ragnarok
@@johngarry3723 I can totally relate to that. You can also find many similarities between Persian mythology and norse mythology.
@Mayhem Albas lovely 😍
When you consider Vikings from the east coast of Sweden as it is today went to Russia and Asia via Dnepr and Volga rivers to Ukraine, the Black sea, the Caspian sea and beyond, the Vikings obviously went through the Persian empire as well so why not wearing a Nordic tattoo? 👍
Hossein, wear your tattoo proudly. One of the Norse women from the Oseberg ship burial has both Scandinavian and Persian DNA. 🙂
To simplify things - your body your tattoo.
To some it's heritage, to others it's religious, to some it's just cool
Nice Profile Picture by the way.
@@JB-dx4mf haha thanks. Same to you.
Fint bilde :) mitt viser noe ekte ;)
@@VikingNorway-pb5tm829 I'm sure it does. ; )
@@thenorsenut380 The heritage is in my body and my body needs no tattoo.. hehe.. have a nice day and thanks for answering :)
I'm Native American specifically Navajo. Joined the Army and met some people who are very proud of their heritage and culture. And that's were we can relate is culture. Because meeting and talking with they believe in many Gods, which I really respect because in my culture we have a God for almost everything. They embraced me with a open forearm hand shake and welcomed me into their lives and told me the gates of Valhalla wait for those fight in battle to those who are worthy. We share a similar story/ belief. Many similarities in cultures. And the savagery in our bloodlines runs deep. I don't have Viking tats but I do have a Glock 41 on my channel that has Mjölnir engraved on to it, and I hope that's ok 🙏 would like to get a actual blessing from someone who is Nordic...
I am native European from czech republic, we have more than similar pantheons and mythology like vikings, slavens and celts.diferent names but same aspects. similar pantheons and mythology have even people from Iran, Persia, Azerbajdzan, greece, i even found some stories from America as Wendingo we have similar story here even russian and poland people know this story (Demon,creature,Běs) is Lešij (Leszij) (evil forest spirit) I think this multigod Pagan cultures have some same roots. we have diferent languages, diferent racis but same myths. This story must be 1300 years old maybe more. We have much more in common.
@@janpokorny6150 man I'm very interested in many religions and very open to people open to tell stories of their backgrounds
I was adopted as a baby. I am a huge history buff, but did not know my own. I had DNA done and the largest percent is Swedish and Danish. Interestingly I had always been interested in their history. I am now planning tattoos to represent my ancestors. The next largest segment of DNA is Scottish and that will be represented also
Imagine trying to share a world while restricting anyone from engaging in your lineages cultures instead of sharing your culture with others to build appreciation for where the world was and how far we’ve come
Thank you!!
Say goodbye to burritos. There’s like 20 cultures in there
It's because people are trying to protect their culture from being disrespected and changed by outsiders. You're not entitled to being able to participate in other people's cultures. Ofcourse if you go to these countries of origin, the people there will want to shower you in their culture. But in a country like America where people not a part of that culture, mock the culture and even participate in parts of the culture but disrespect the people of said culture, it makes sense that after years of dealing with that level of disrespect, people will want to gatekeep their culture. Especially if it was people of a certain race doing so. Then the discriminated group will just not want people of that race anywhere near that culture. I can understand why some people will want to close some parts of their cultures. Similarly to how there are closed religions.
@@latrinity2412 I understand what u mean. Even if I think it is still better to tell the truth about it and not trying to keep others away from it. I have people at school who think it is cool to say that they are vikings and how nice and strong they are and that they will go to valhalla. Sometimes I just ask them for the meaning of some basic stuff of the north myth and mostly they don't know what I am talking about. I don't know much about the myths and the culture behind it but I like to show them, that they are not what they want to show...
@@hedgehogshill3522 i understand you. I was specifically talking about parts of black culture (since black people all over the world and they all have their own culture depending on where they are), and other poc culture. I think culture can be a beautiful thing to share and in some cases like marriage, it definitely helps the two people understand each other better. I guess i see both sides and that's why I said no one is entitled to someone else's culture. I'm guessing that European culture hasn't been so disrespected or not disrespected on a large scale to the point where Europeans feel like they need to protect it in this day and age. That isn't really the same for us POC.
My people ❤
I think if you are of European ancestry then having any northern tattoo is ok. And if you're not of European ancestry it's still ok, why? Because usually it's out of respect and interest in the culture.
Sadly most folk who gets tattoos nowadays do it purely aesthetic wise, so it's people who don't know what that means and think it's just cute and ethnic
@@kyomademon453 yeah that's a very valid point.
@Kalda Forn What do you mean by non-European? Define please.
@Kalda Forn I live in the U.S. but my ancestry is Scandinavian. Do I need my tattoos removed ?
@@kyhl6159 you need a definition for what non European means?
Thank you for doing this in the first place I think it's wonderful what you're doing everybody should be nice to each other and we should be able to talk about stuff without fighting and I want you to have a wonderful day
I love that it became as popular as it has. I'm just some American who was able to determine their family came from Norway and took it upon myself to reach out to some familial branches I found in Bergen. I've gotten to know a few of them and am planning a trip soon so I didn't feel weird getting a Norwegian phrase on my body or for enjoying Viking culture.
I have a Nordic inspired tattoo even though I don’t have Nordic heritage, like many people have asian style tattoos and are not asian. I like Nordic culture and mythology.
As a person who is descended from Vikings, I see nothing wrong with you or anyone else having a Nordic inspired tattoo. It's nice to see that the culture of my ancestors is valued by others.
I quote Jeremy Lin "Having dreadlocks does not make me black and it's fine. It's the same as your chinese tattoo in your arm" not an exact quote but you get the idea.
@@macthebloody4214 i am a latino, but i love history and i love norse history. i always tell people when i die i will be in valhalla because of my traumatic childhood and all my suffering i endured and still endure. im thinking of getting a healing rune as i am now beginning the healing process. im here because i dont want to disrespect or offend people.
@@alvarorodriguez479 you will be welcomed to Valhalla! This I am certain of, he’s all father not “some father”
@@alvarorodriguez479 Valhalla was reserved for only the greatest warriors who died in battle, not just anyone. There are other places where other ppl went on their journey through death to their eventual reincarnation. Like most ppl you would end up in Hellheimer.
I'm from the US, but I'm of Celtic/Scandinavian descent... I have several "traditional" Norse tattoos. They are a representation of my highest respect for my ancestors, and the Old Gods which I have followed for the past 37 years.
That sounds badass and awesome!! I’m getting into the Nordic traditions myself as it’s a big part of my ancestry. In addition to getting into following the Old Gods, so you have any book recommendations for getting started?
Same
@@aylazelanagrebiel3210 Here are a few suggestions
Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman
Essential Asatru by Diana L. Paxson
A practical heathen's guid to Asatru by Patricia M. LaFayllve
One quick search in Amazon books and you'll find many more.
That is exactly why I am having my Norse tattoo done. Skol
I don't understand people like you, I'm American with Celtic/ Scandinavian ancestry as well but my great grandparents, who immigrated from Norway and Ireland, would slap me if I got something tattoo'd like that. I'd actually argue it dishonors our ancestors.
I live in Northern US and my ancestors come from the Norman Viking background and my wife’s family was part of the original Vikings who settled in Ireland. We love our forefathers history and love embracing some of those old customs and implementing them into our lives.
I really appreciate this video because it answered a lot of questions for me regarding my choice is tattoos. I live in California. My mother is from Swedish descent , and my Father has Germanic ancestors. Northern European basically. My Grandfather on my father's side has Portuguese descendents.
I turned out Hazel eyed with dirty blonde hair.
I consider my race as mostly white so that's what I select when I fill out paperwork that asks.
I chose Celtic knotwork as a theme for a sleeve on my right arm mainly just because I appreciate how cool it looks, and I don't necessarily consider it cultural appropriation at all.
I married a Native American and we have two beautiful healthy children who are half of me and half of her culture.
People who now judge others based solely on how they look or their tattoos are the one's who are biased and ignorant. Unfortunately this has become a political agenda to divide all people by racial lines here in the USA and now globally.
Please don't buy into it...
I recognize this.
I was born in Iceland and i consider myself as a old soul. My family tree has a background in Nordic culture. And I have many Nordic tattoos because I refuse to let my ancestors and my own beliefs become extinct. I wear my tattoos like armor and I believe in the old ways.
Soooo when the next raid on England?
@@ericspecullaas2841 you wait it will come
That’s beautiful. Keep your culture alive my friend
@@ericspecullaas2841 next summer👍
I’m both Pagan and I have Nordic ancestors. I’m very interested in getting tattoos with a culture that’s being forgotten in my family
I'm mostly Danish genetically (along with Irish), and I have Mjolnir on my arm. Should I have tattooed the Bluetooth symbol instead 🤔😆?
If you are his descendent, i can't see why not 😂
YES XD
Bluetooth goes on your ear! Lol!
hahaha
Bluetooth was named after king Harold Bluetooth funny enough. The symbols are for his name. I learned that reading a book called the sea wolves. I treating stuff.
The most noticeable about this video is how nice your personality is :)
I feel super connected to the Nordic and Viking culture, it resonates deeply within my soul, and for me, my tattoos are a representation of that feeling 🥰 I’ve got a tattoo of a wolf in a forest and a Vegvisir in my left forearm, an armband in my right arm and the tree of life in my back. I intend to have some more, I love it 🥰
That’s amazing! It’s nice to hear about someone else who shares that feeling, I don’t have any tattoos yet, but I have some in the works that are going to look amazing once they’re done, not to mention the personal connection they’re going to have with the journey I took to get here! May the gods watch over your path friend
Hey king and queen
Kinda shitty that Vegvisir is a Galdrastaffir then - cos the Viking era was long done by the 1100's, when they were invented. For the life of me I dont understand why the hel these newb Heathens either are unaware of, or discount Aschwain -which is 900 years older.
@@ehranndealg4841 are you unaware she wrote "Nordic culture"? Also 1100's? Bruh u need a history book asap lol
I'm Swedish and I love that you do this, I welcome you welcoming my ancestral culture.
Ive had people get angry at me when they see my tattoos that represent the gods and a helm of awe and had to explain many times that i am Scandinavian (i come from Denmark, Sweden and Norway) and not some Skin head. Each of them has meaning and was chosen for a purpose. Thors hammer with wolves to show my love for thor and the Úlfhédnar, a valkyire in honor for those who died, Hel to observe her job to watch the dead and a helm of awe for protection. This is my way for honoring the gods among other ways.
I'm American of Scandinavian descent with a lot of Nordic tattoos. I feel you. I hate the assumption that I'm a skinhead or some extremist because of my tattoos, and I'm heavily tattooed. Not one offensive image and I still get looks
@@thekentuckyrifleman That's one of the consequences when anybody can just take from your cultuur/religion without any kind of gatekeeping.
@@revan552 bruh what lol i never claimed to own it, just had to explain from where i am from cause that place is where the culture is from and that I'm apart of it.
@@revan552 go to the hood and let them know they might feel different and let you know fiscally but don't worry it's not them being racist it's just in there culture to attack you for your skin color
@@levithorstone2876 no one cares about opinion in the hood
Love seeing this love your vids keep it up its great to see someone from Iceland n your so right n I always say the same thing if we was all the same it would be a boring world tattoos are a way to set yourself apart and be different so definitely love seeing the Viking tattoos come about I am working on a sleeve of Viking work myself n have high hopes of visiting Iceland and Norway some day
I'm an American learning more on Norse paganism and becoming Norse Pagan, I really appreciate this video. I hope to one day get a Nordic tattoo once I learn more. I also see people with the tattoos. Like a gentleman with Odin's Raven. He was so happy I knew what it was and we spoke for a while about it and the stories of Odin. I feel as long as you learn the culture and with respect to the history, I say get the tattoos. 💚
Right on warrior. Us scandinavians welcome anyone willing to learn and join. After all, Óðinn will need all the einherjar he can get come Ragnarǫk!
Living in Germany and it is so sad to see people using this for any shit Neo Nazi thing. I just love this culture but at the same time i see how they abuse it.
Even if they do, I don't think that (should) ruin it forever.
For example, I see people in Tibet still using the swastika for its original peaceful purposes.
Context does matter...
Nazism has twisted a lot of concepts and symbols. I am half Indian and I would love to symbolise my heritage with a Swastika but... yeah.
Ha ha keep crying
@@NorwegianNationalist1 what
@@Necroyy Let me guess, you are some kind of Amerimutt larper?
I am Scottish and Viking history is a big part of our history as well
Very trve. Hail sister, we are both clan Donnachaidh
Because they conquered your germanic ancestors
If you hail from the British Isles than you likely have Saxon and Viking ancestors both of whom worshiped the same gods and had similar cultures. My ancestors are Celtic/Anglo-Saxon/Nordic so I’ve incorporated aspects of Druidism and Asatru into my Paganism.
@@samueljackson315 LMAOOOO
If your a scot you'll mostly have celtic pictish and gael blood, but if you're English you'll have mostly saxon and viking blood. Yes vikings came too Scotland but not in a big way like they did in England, but if you're from the orkneys or Shetland Islands then yeah you'll definitely have some norse blood running through you about 30% of ppl from from the islands have viking blood in them but the further south you travel in Scotland that percentage goes down.
Each and every day my Nordic heritage comes into play. I learned from my grandparents who were responsible for the lessons that I learned from my mother. I'm proud to be a part of this tribe, we are all about a tight knit community and we will make sure that you will make it through your darkest days. If your bowl is wanting, I will feed it. If your mind seeks answers I will try to sustain it's hunger.
Man I love Norse mythology and the Viking age is one of my favorite historical periods also my best friend for 12 years is Scandinavian and practices asatru and he's taught me so much about his culture and I love learning about new and different cultures. I have gungnir and one of Odin's Ravens tattooed on my chest and my stomach to represent strength and protection. I love Scandinavian culture and have always been self conscious about it especially for a man who's not even white. Thank you for this video!
I'm mixed but i have the viking sign for create your own reality and the Ignuz symbol Greek is that okay?
@@lindaandres5810 I don't know man I think it is, I think it's just a appreciation for the culture and mythology.
@@eashanahluwalia9599 yea that's what I think too plus I love the meanings behind them. I already got a flower of life tattoo too
I feel a strong connection to the norse, DNA traces back to the norse, researched and studied the culture to the point marvel movies upset me getting everything wrong. I have several norse tattoos and only get complaints in the United States
How do they mess it up?
😂😂😂😂
There are rumours the Vikings managed get as far to the area where the Colorado River flows in too the sea round the border of California /Arizona. Apparently this is also part of the oral stories amongst the Native Americans in that area so they went all o er the place including to South America where they mixed with the natives.
The Marvel movies didn't get Norse mythology wrong, they just used an adaptation of the mythology that existed within their comics, the intent was never to be accurate.
Same with the Viking series. I saw two episodes of it and it was just weird to watch especially when the place name they used like Uppsala in one episode is like flat like a pancake in the real world and not a Forrest in the mountains lol
I'm with you, in that I love cultures being celebrated. I would just prefer that it be celebrated correctly- specifically, if someone is getting a tattoo with ANY religious context, I would just ask them to do the research of the image/words, find the meaning of it, and find a connection to it. AND MAKE SURE THE TATTOOIST DOES IT CORRECTLY lol
I'll do it because it looks cool I don't see the problem.
Very valid!!
I do like to see if the people within the culture feel about it. Although it might feel celebratory for me, it doesn’t mean it is for the person within the culture. There could be a painful history associated with it, so, I try not to lean on my own feelings on another persons culture. With religion, I highly recommend finding out what is a closed practice.
I think just learning and being invited into the culture is the best way. And food!!!! Food is my favorite part of celebrating a culture!
I would for sure have my research include conversations with someone part of that culture.
I would go as far to have a tattooist have some understanding too!
@@hi273785 why though? If they think you are infringing on their culture then that is a personal problem it has zero to do with you. What are they going to do think badly of you lol screw them. Culture means nothing to me.
@@pazuzu603 For me, it does matter. Especially when a portion of someone’s culture meant life or death. For example, Native Americans couldn’t practice their religion until 1978 (American Indian Religious Freedom Act).
It is your choice, but be prepared for people to not like it, and people need to be prepared for you not to care.
Clearly you don’t care and I don’t care to entertain a conversation with someone who has made up their mind. Thanks for sharing your opinion.
@@hi273785 sorry but the whole culture appropriation thing is dumb isn't imitation a form of flattery why would you be upset about that.
I always had issues with the small of my back feeling vulnerable. I searched for something I could tattoo on my back for spiritual/physical protection. I came across the Aegishjalmur. Did a lot of reading, and then asked a friend's opinion. The friend was adamant that I already had the tattoo on my back. I literally had to provide photos to prove I didn't. Went to the tattoo shop and asked the receptionist about the right artist for the tattoo. She pulled out a portfolio and opened it to the page containing the Aegishjalmur. Her name was the same as the friend whose opinion I had solicited. After all of those synchronicities, I got the Aegishjalmur. Six months later I injured my back and ended up in physical therapy. The therapist asked about the tattoo. I explained that I had it for protection. He commented that it must not have worked because I was injured exactly where the tattoo is located. I said perspective matters, how much worse could/would the injury have been if I DIDN'T have the tattoo? It's still my favorite tattoo.
That is an amazing story
Cool story. Unfortunately, I must say the Œgishjalmr is not a viking symbol. (Yes, it carries the same name as the item popularized from the incredible Vǫlsunga Saga, but the symbology of the word is a much later depiction, perhaps 18th century, and more of a Christian symbol). It's a cool symbol, but alas, the common ground between the helm of awe mentioned in the Saga and the symbol we're familiar with, is the name Œgishjalmr.
So unfortunately it's neither a viking symbol nor a pagan symbol, which stings a bit to learn. However, one could imagine what the Œgishjalmr actually looks like.
This is what Arith Härger told me when I asked what a possible iconography could look like, if we were to imagine the real Œgishjalmr mentioned in the Vǫlsunga Saga:
"The one mentioned in
earlier sources is indeed just a term and
no iconographic representation of it,
neither a description of any object nor
a symbology. It seems to be the fusion
of at least two important elements,
which is the "Aegis" ( atyiç ) as a power/
object of protection and magic-power,
which by itself is an unknown device
of some Greek deities (Zeus and
Athena) possibly a "shield"', and fusing
it with the myths that speak of the
'Snakestone" / "Draconite" as a stone/
gem in a Dragon's head, which isnt just
part of some European myths but also
found in other non-European myths
Certainly, nowadays, based on, at least
these two possible interpretations, I'm
sure many artists can come up with
something. It must also be taken into
account that these mythological motifs
were inserted in the poems Fáfnismál
and Völsungasaga, not only referring to
an item in the Dragon's hoard (possibly
an allusion to the Dragon's gem or a
powerful mythical device) and also
referring to the very countenance of the
Dragon, which by itself seems to refer to
both the Gem in the Dragon's head and
the very power of this device that causes
fear (an allusion to an evil reputation)
All these elements could be combined to
create some sort of symbol."
I want to ask do you think it does spiritual/physical protection.
@@eddierice3254 I think it does. But I'm part of the woo crew.
I wonder what the physics is behind tattoo ink stopping a blunt force impact from damaging your body, but only if it's in a shape someone made up in 18th century, otherwise it doesn't work.
I'm a wiccan(modern pagan), I'm also polytheistic and worship many different gods from many different cultures I will make alters for them if I feel a connection(no matter what religion they originate). I have used many viking runes in my work, it helps me feel connected to the origins of my beliefs. I plan on making an alter for Odin. Don't know why but I wanted to share this. I plan on getting some of the runes tattooed to feel even closer, though I don't originate from Iceland.
The cultural appropriation is a discussion that has so many if’s and but’s to it. Also, there are questions that must be answered such as, “is this an oppressed culture?” “ has the media/public been amiss to acknowledge where this came from?” and “how is it being used?”. As an African American I love these tattoos and what they represent but I wouldn’t get anything Nordic. The whole cultural appropriation thing came out of frustration from not giving credit where credit is due. Especially if “whatever it was” was put down prior.
That's very important to be mindful of. I feel no guilt for my interest in Greek, Norse/Scandinavian, Celtic pantheons etc., because these are not oppressed/mocked cultures. It would be different if I were to try to work with Yoruba/Orisha gods, or fully adopt the spirituality of Indigenous peoples of the Americas. Racism, and racists ruin everything. (Especially stealing Norse symbols for their bullsh**!)
I have a question for you, let's say that I let my hairs grow long enaugh, and one day I decide to do a dreadlock haircut, even if I'm white. Would it be okey if I'm learning why africans did it, what it represent, etc. Even with the fact that I don't have any African ancestors (at least to my knowledge) and I don't feel any connection to the culture, I'd do it just because it looks super cool?
I'm not gonna do it, because yeah it looks very good on some people, but I feel like it wouldn't be the case with me. But it's just a thought I wanted to share 'cause as long as someone learns the "why" and pay respect to the specific culture, with the things they want to do, why would we blame them. And if they feel a connection with the culture, it's even better for them
@@ladyraven3418 the interesting thing about using Nordic symbols for racist stuff is that…they openly traded with Africans too (moors). I’m not sure the racist really understand their ancestors properly
@@corekidfrom9700 to answer your question…it’s a tricky one because personally I would be like, “ oh okay this guy gets it”. And it would be cool if a white guy with dreads also educated other white people about it. The truth is having locks no matter who wears them is still looked down upon as being dirty and unkempt. Mainly because the majority of the words works on a western/European standard.
@@mikialamays6462 If I remember correctly there were also other cultures (including "whites") that used dreadlocks weren't there? So technically there shoulnd't be any issue as long as it's not done with ill intention.
"Cultural appropriation". Like the vikings taking aspects of all the cultures they came in contact with? Jewelry, religion, technology, art, on and on. I know, everyone is enamoured of all the buzzwords flyin' around. Low hangin' intellectual fruit.
Yes, what some call cultural appropriation, others call an active appreciation of another cultures art.....
@@Volkfire , hahahahaahahahaa! They LITERALLY converted to christianity en masse. That would indeed involve symbols. The conversion is the most low hanging fruit of many.
@@Volkfire lol you do realize a bunch of them converted into Christianity right? So much so that their religion is barely even practiced nowadays. How does that happen hmmm? Get your dumbass outta here.
@@Volkfire lol you did nothing to disprove my point. Are all Scandinavians Northern Swedes?
Lmao yeah that's probably true. But cultural apportion seems like it'll only lead to less people being willing to express interest in cultures outside of their own if people are going to jump down their throats using stupid buzz words
Nordic bloodline, born in America. Proud to represent both cultures, for what they stand for, not for the bad things they've done.
Bro these tattoo artists are so God damn good at their job
Honestly I'm jealous
I’ve asked a few friends I’ve made that moved to my area from Norway and showed them the design of the sleeve I’m planning based around the Gods because I am Norse Pagan in my faith and they said that they were highly honored to have someone from outside of their home country taking that inspiration and using it to honor my faith (and their heritage)
so you really believe in yggdrasil the world tree in 2022?
I've been trying to learn more about the faith and consider myself a Norse Pagan as well, however I'm unable to figure out where I should start. I know Gods such as Odin and Freyr, a few others but I want to dive deeper. What do you think I should start with?
I hope that's not the one the crazy Brit came up with long after the Catholic church ended it in Europe. I see those ones that think they are magicians and that's make believe
@@dayzfreshie1017 Don't start with the one the British guy invented not long ago. His followers are like a renaissance fair
He's doing it to be interesting. . . It's a fail. I've got a co=worker that was so stoked to share with everyone that her father-in-law is pagan and that it would blow our minds. She's was very disappointed.
Just change the word from appropriation to appreciation and the karen's and kyle's will have to go find something else to be offended by🤙
true but overdoing it makes one look pretentious. excessive tattoos and piercings, I mean.
@@dagonvaldez2878 Its all subjective. I think the "modern" style of tattoos looks like shit, and I think water cooler tattoos are stupid. I say this as a guy with Tribal superman tattoo 😂🤣
@@gingernaut2550 nah. unless you're trying out for the tattoo man position in the midway, excessive tattoos are just pretentious.
@@dagonvaldez2878 Meh I think people that say pretentious are pretentious and read to much into things to come off smarter than they are with some kind of weird moral superiority. Tomato tomato
It isn't the "Karens" and "Kyles" offended by cultural appropriation, though.
It's the Chins and Lees, the Pablos and Esmeraldas, LaQueeshas and Tyrones, and the Runs With Feet and Sits With Wolves that are crying about it.
Entire arm is covered in nordic and celtic knot work. Being British, they are part of my culture having been conqured by one at some time or another.
There's a problem with *some* tattoos in Germany: some tattoo designs of nordic origin are seen as belonging to the fascist scene, and some are outright banned. Swastikas for example are illegal, and, as said, neonazis misusing them has brought quite some in disrepute.
But isn't it ridiculous to worry about getting a tattoo just because it may be associated with a swastika, in my opinion if it's not a swastika then you shouldn't have to worry about it, I mean that's like saying oh you can't get a Celtic cross tattoo because Nazis decided to take it as their own.
@@sean8615 I personally include both the swastika and the SS symbol which was taken from nordic runes because of how heavily associated both are with Nazism already. Otherwise people need to stop giving things up to the Nazis. Why let them take what isnt theirs to own?
alot of the problematic symbols / runes arent authentic anyway, they were made up by nazi occultists to further their agenda of ancient germanic superiority (see: armanen runes, etc.)
@@lunaproductions13 I understand what you're saying, I just hate that Nordic history is being misunderstood as white supremacy
Actually the swastika is a Buddhist symbol that ironically (at least ironically now since it's now immideatly "connected with" Hitler) means good luck or good fortune. The Vikings "stole" the swastika when they travelled east and decided to use it themselves as a symbol for the sun and as a symbol used on the wheels of Tor (Thor)'s wagon when he rode across the sky with Mjølnir. But it's not a nordic symbol in it's true origin. Just for info.
I have Swedish roots (Born in Australia 🇦🇺) and always felt this deep connection in Nordic culture. The stories are so crazy but I could listen to them for hours, i’d love to get tattoos that reflect my love for nordic mythology and my Viking ancestors 💓
I am in Australia as well, it seems like we are few and far in between here. We should colab.
My Mother’s Parents came here (the US) from Sweden. My Father had no clue about His ancestors except they came from England. His birth certificate actually says “father unknown”. I want to get a Swedish armband tattoo but it seems to be a cult thing with the Vikings being popular now. So I think I’ll hold off until they move on to something else. They can go back to tribal.
I'am an Australian with a surname of Doyle........
czcams.com/video/_NI46cPM8jA/video.html
@@jeffstevens156 Never let the actions or thoughts of complete strangers dictate what you do, friend.
Im an asian but i really love the nordic culture and i feel a deep connection with it, even more then my own culture. I learnt lots of things about the nordic culture, and I just love it so much. Not just some wide spreaded viking warrior things that u can find in many video games, I learnt much more deeper then that, even the brutal or bloody or anything else somebody maybe considered dark is so attractive to me. Maybe you would laugh at me but I really want to immerse into this culture or become a nordic man myself...
If you're of Eurasian descent period you'd be surprised at the long ancestral ties you have. Not just via the steppe pastoralists, but ancient north eurasians as well.
@@douglas_fir I am a mongol-Chinese hybrid
Not going to lie could have just stopped at saying you like the culture. Saying you want to be a different ethnicity is weird
So you want to die in battle , eat lotts of dried fish , enslave villages and sell them , etc... Possibly offer animal sacrifices to gods and spend a lot of time on a boat in the north sea. Good for you Man . My kinda people.
@@correctpolitically4784 exactly. Damn epic of a life it would be
some of those tattoos are so well done that one would think the tattoo artist told them to watch a movie while he/she did the work
I am from Belgium, but I was raised with A LOT of elements out of Scandinavian culture. One example is watching movies that my parents bought in Sweden, so we were only able to watch it in Swedish or Norse 😂 So naturally, I grew to be really curious about the history of Scandinavia. I even made my thesis about the entire story of Ragnarök. It was incredibly fun, and it also resulted in me wanting to get nordic tattoos all over my body 😂
I feel like if you want something permanently on your body it has great meaning to you, right?
I think it's a way to honor a symbol or a culture and that you want it to be a part of you.
Don't forget that in WW2 a lot of symbols from many different cultures (including Nordic Mythology) were just stolen and used for evil. It's not the true origin of those symbols and we can take them back
Yeah, even though my tats reflect my culture and heritage I regret getting them...
I'm a Scottish protestant just incase you're wondering.
What symbols were "stolen" in WW2 if you don't mind me asking? And by whom?
I'm more interested in learning of the Vikings ancient knowledge. We know so little, yet I feel they had an attachment or oneness with nature.
Nearly all IE Pagan cultures had very big attachment to nature.
You’re wrong. You’re misinterpreting the fetishisation of primitive people, no one regarded nature as anything but something to exploit until modern media made people pretend they did.
@@bashkillszombies , wow. You're so far off.
@@vincearmstrong5654 He’s not. They didn’t give a shit about nature NEARLY as much as people thing. More than people today, sure. But they were no native Americans despite the ceremonial dress being somewhat similar.
Not understanding biology, ecology, interdependence of species isn't disrespect by everyday people. They had to survive. Shelter, heat, cooking.
You may have just convinced me to get tattoo's.. I want to get the runes that i like the meanings of on my arm, thinking of doing a "my past to my future" thing, on my shoulder/bicep the runes that have already affected me, what i hope will be the result and finish with the runes i hope will guide me in the future closer to my hand. Want to get the morrigan on my back surrounded by a flock of crows maybe in future, but the runes are a must now! These tattoo's are amazing!
I came to Iceland this year to do my bucket list trip, doing a tour round the islands coast on a motorbike alone. I am planning to get a vegvisir tattoo to remember my trip.
I really appreciate you making this video! I am American but very strongly identify with my Northern heritage and have been wanting to get some Nordic/Viking tattoos but have been afraid that people may misidentify them and/or assume I am a neo-Nazi or something. It is very sad that this association has happened over the decades but after listening to what you read from others I feel now that we who understand and respect the meaning and origins of these symbols need to take them back and educate people about them when they ask or confront us about them.
just get an american tattoo? norse tattoo is a cultural thing
@Zach Gordon Get one & if anyone whinges at you tell them it's from Lord of the Rings. They'll never know. 👍😉
Great subject! I know a few people who have extensive runic and Nordic symbol tattoos. Personally I can't decide on any specific ones, but your video helps inspire me ☺️
Viking is kind of a "profession" so why not. I appreciate your positive approach to this question.
That's the thing with people in most cultures. We love seeing people embrace our signs and symbols if they do it with the proper respect. I'm Irish, our culture has been used and abused so much over the years, but every now and then you'll get someone who will do it properly. For example, I love seeing people proudly use the triquetra or the celtic cross in tattoos, especially someone who is actively learning about the culture. And educating people on what these symbols are and what they mean (for those genuinely curious) is something I really enjoy doing.
I have a Vegvisir tattoo and couple of staves. I visited Iceland two years ago in October and honestly felt such an odd connection to the place it's surreal. I am definitely visiting again. Even entertained the idea of moving north either to Finland or even Iceland, just need to learn the language
I think it's 100% ok if someone who isnt nordic gets a nordic tattoo
I really love Scandinavian culture and have been studying it for many years. In 2020 I have begun learning Norwegian and it saved me from depression and PTSD. I won't stop and want to learn more Scandinavian languages. As the Scandinavian culture is a big part of my life, I would like to make a tattoo (but I didn't decide what picture I want to have). Now I have only the tattoo of an otter catching the fish on my shoulder.
Yes talking about it is helpful and not letting “them” take the true meaning away from them
"I am from Uruguay but my great-grandfather is from Northern Germany"... Who's going to tell him?
A dear friend of mine from high school is from Uruguay. Her grandparents had to FLEE Austria and ended up in South America because here in the US, we weren't accepting Jewish refugees like we should have. So not everyone who spoke German and ended up in South America were running away from post-war repercussions.
OMG that was hilarious. I laughed to hard I accidentally downvoted you for a second. All fixed. Thanks for the laugh!
I'm English decended from anglo Saxons Britons and Scandinavia I'm thinking on going with a saxon style tattoos not too dissimilar and related to Norse style
The Saxons and vikings often mixed, you're likely also Scandanavian
Anglo-Saxons are germanic peoples, just like the Vikings, that conquered Englaland and setteled there the same way the Vikings did… We’re related by blood and culture…
@@aksel_5537 absolutely , there is little difference genetically from a Dutchman, an Englishman , Frenchman, German etc . They all were Scythian tribes then scattered and become their own confederate tribes
@@ryanciantar They were all Scythians? Can you elaborate?
@@thebrownhound1343 This was the common name given to the Celtic-Germanic "Caucasians" before they proliferated Europe. From the Caucasus, the white man has "unknown" origin supposedly unless you know where to look.
My ancestry is from Germany, Ireland, Scotland, and Russia but I'm a Norse Pagan and I love all of the Nordic culture. There's just something about it and the connectivity to everything that makes me feel 'empowered' so to speak. There's an energy and feeling of strength that can only come from something you share a harmonic balance with :)
This woman is proving the stereotype that Nordic people are beautiful!
A Latin guy writing from Costa Rica, and I'm in love with the nordic mythology/culture. Everything related to vikings, runes, your language, nordic paganism, iron/bronze age really fascinates me. I actually have a tattoo by the band Heilung in my arm.
LAtin guy? Come on! Its unebliavable to see a southern american assuming racist american categories!!!! Latinos simply dont exist only in America racist culture!!!!!
Te entiendo mi brother, yo tengo un Yggdrasil en admiración a los nórdicos y sus dioses. Saludos desde México (no es obligatorio que solo deba gustarnos lo de nuestras patrias ¿no crees?)
@@danelag7204 what are you even saying my dude?
@@danelag7204 So you're saying the Portuguese, Spanish, French, Italians and Romanians don't exist? The same way the Latin Americans don't exist and they're definitely not descendants of the Spanish conquerors, and that being the reason why they're latins? Are you high, my guy?
Learn a little bit about the Latin people, who they were and who they are today.
Then tell me that "latinos" don't exist and tell me more about the racist American culture, you seem to know a lot.
@Akira well.. people have yet to realize that language is constantly being used to manipulate thoughts and meaning... governments and some twisted woke ppl just take advantage of the language being a changing living thing, just to label things that shouldn't be, or change the meaning of other things just to make it "more appropriate" or "politically correct" (insert : gaslighting, depression, anxiety, culture, cultural appropriation, cultural appreciation, cancellation, racism, discrimination, cult../ handicaped becomes impaired something, homeless becomes vagrant or ppl w/o housing, and way more)...
Because of the US romanticizing some stuff, and demonizing other, some words just don't make sense anymore and shit just lose their meaning.. leading to a non-ending fight between "religions"/ "backgrounds"/"classes",etc..
Great looking tattoos but I am sorry to break it for you guys, if you were not aware. The vegvisir (9:26, 10:31, 10:52, 12:21, 13:19, 14:04, 14:32, 15:25) does not have anything to do with the viking age, it's not a norse/"viking" symbol. It is an Icelandic magical stave that first appeared in the 1800's, several centuries after the viking age was over and Scandinavia and Iceland had become christian. The same goes for the aegishjalmur (12:21, 15:32). Aegishjalmur is mentioned in the Völsunga saga but the symbol people relate to it is also rather new (1847). It is also an Icelandic magical stave from more recent times.
Everyone puts their own personal meaning in their tattoos which is all fine. However, calling it viking age/norse symbols is incorrect.
/A fellow swede/dane
How do you know that it wasn't just recorded before but have gone throughout history in some families ?
@@SvensktTroll How do you know the CZcams logo aint a viking symbol? Maybe its history just never got recorded? You could say that about any symbol.
These Icelandic christian time symbols were, according to everything we know, drawn just a couple of centuries ago.
Some uninformed neopagans probably liked how the symbols looked and since they were "old" and Icelandic they wrongly thought they were "viking". I do not blame people thinking the symbols are "viking" since this misunderstanding is being made in various games, movies, series and in videos like this one.
Youre pretty wrong. I hate when people try to cite christian sources to prove something. Like holy shit. They literally tried to wipe this culture from the face of the planet and leave no evidence of its existence.... No shit theyre going to say something didnt belong to them
@@2ELI7E @Brandon Boudreaux Then please prove me wrong. I bet you can't, because you are the one in the wrong here. I am also an enthusiast of old norse culture myself and this topic (neopagans thinking the vegvisir and aegishjalmur is from the viking age) is often brought up on more serious forums where it is debunked. We do have some symbols we know were around in Scandinavia during the viking age, like the valknut (its "meaning" is unknown), but the vegvisir and the one supposed to be the aegishjalmur aint two of these. There are simply no evidence/no traces whatsoever that these are from the viking age. However, we do have evidence that they first appeared rather recently.
I don't like the fact that my ancestors culture (temples, runestones, beliefs, idols, rituals etc.) were destroyed/erased due to christianization. But when you claim that certain things were "viking" when they clearly were not, you are dilluting things. Please stop with that.
What he is saying is pretty well agreed upon in the academic community and those with an indepth knowledge of the history. There are tons and tons of artifacts for many other symbols in the viking age and before (so not wiped out by christians)- the stave doesn't show up anywhere. Sorry guys
your tattoo iS your OWN for WHATEVER reason family, story, history, OR if it’s a design YOU like it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks……..
I am British, but I am totally fascinated by Nordic/Viking culture, at school it was one of the most interesting topic's for me, and let's not forget the Viking people had a massive affect on the UK many years ago, and those effects still influence Britain now. Also my Grandad and Aunt and Mum carried on tracing back our family's ancestry and discovered we have Nordic ancestry in our family ... and tattoo's are art and amazing and mean something to those who have them.
large portions of British history is entangled with Scandinavia, scotland for instance was occupied by norway for a period of time and around 50% are of viking descent in the Shetland isles
not to mention the Germanic ties between the nations
I literally just ran into someone on complete accident one evening at a local bar and it turned out that they were a native of that part of the world. I never asked details but we discussed later on the topic anyway, but he saw my Vegvisir on my arm and, literally, the first words out of his mouth that started our conversation was: "I really like your stave." and that began a delightful, albeit somewhat intoxicated, conversation on our thoughts on the world and visiting other countries and, of course, inquiries as to why I got the Vegvisir.
A lot of these people have very good points but I agree with a bunch of other comments here - the use of "cultural appropriation" is becoming, what I feel, way more weaponized for people these days for what only seems like a reason to fight or argue. As far as I know, precisely, I'm not of Norse descent myself (I was only told via world of mouth and extended family that it's POSSIBLE my family came from there and ended up in Ireland and Scotland). I've not personally looked into it myself, but I've only been drawn to the culture my entire life, since I was barely a teenager. The culture has always ingrained something within me that I've wanted to cultivate for years and only recently have had the chance to let it grow. I have been approached by more than a couple people in my life that have either moved here from the Scandinavian areas and they not only appreciate seeing the culture being picked up but I've seen that they definitely appreciate it more when the person picking it up has a real appreciation for it.
Love this topic, completely agree that anyone can get pretty much anything they want as a tattoo, especially if it's done in a respectful way.
I have thorn ( Þ ) tattooed on my middle finger because its my favourite rune & i really wish it didn't die out in English.
My bf has Odin's ravens on his arms and several other Norse patterns tattooed on him because he is a pagan. This is his religious culture, even tho we are both English we feel these things respct the culture not commodify it.
English and Scandinavia are both connected ancestrally, We're all part of Germanic tribes so are the Irish so being engish in my eyes doesn't stop it being part of your culture. May the gods be with you both x
your so completly sweet love iceland and viking culture! :) thank u for the video
I am American, I've always held tattoos to be sacred. I have Norse tattoos but only decided to get them after learning the meanings, history, and sat in meditation of each symbol. I have connected with each spirituality before even considering putting them on my body. I love my ink and often get many compliments on those specifically.
Love the content, thank you!
Personally, I don't understand why "cultural appropriation" is so offensive to so many people? So what if a certain culture is depicted in a stereotypical way (or depicted at all according to some people) by someone who doesn't "belong" to said culture. If it's your culture, take some proper pride in it and go along with it. It doesn't have to be taken so seriously. Also, suggesting that certain cultures can be treated differently depending on whether or not it's "oppressed" is a slippery slope that leads straight to what you want to avoid. But that's just my personal opinion.
Yes - and what's sort of crazy is that "cultural appropriation" wasn't seen as any way negative until VERY recently, so even most of the cultures one could nowadays be accused of "appropriating" are themselves an amalgam of influences and such appropriated from other cultures. That's literally how cultures form.
What did you say about a culture being depicted in a stereotypical way?
@@nyansybones4983
That it doesn't necessarily have to be taken dead seriously. Often when this happens it's even intentional, just meant as some harmless banter. Take it for what it is.
@@neilis2405 Hair color can be seen as culture and others appropriate it and complain when "their" culture gets "appropriated", same can be said of those with straight hair and others wearing wigs of said hair style. (I'd get slaughtered and called racist if I mentioned the people I speak of)
True cultural appropriation is when someone outside of a culture takes something from that culture and normalizes it and takes away its meaning in the process. Like if I went around wearing a Jewish yamaka because I thought it looked cool
I am Hispanic, I was born in Dominican Republic but my father is from Spain. I spend most of my life growing in Spain and later moved to NYC, where I experience so much diversity. As I grew up and I started to learn more about the world, Norse mythology and Nordic culture amase me because it was so different to what I was taught. As I grew up and became a man myself, I became deeply passionate into learning more about this amazing culture and to also use it as another example of humanity and the many lessons they can offer through history. As appreciation, I got a tattoo of a vegvisir in my right arm, a long side 6 runes representing each element and gods that I resonate when I was learning about them. I also have other runes that in Old Norse mean “those who wonder are lost” which resonates with me a lot and helps me guide me throughout life, as I myself suffer from existencial crisis about this world and finding my correct path. I love and respect your culture, as I respect the many others in this world. Thank you for being so welcoming❤️
Growing up I was absolutely amazed by the culture and even to this day am wholeheartedly in love with it, I wear smithed reproduction jewelry based on historical site findings and have always looked to them as more of a motivation to be a more chivalrous and strong hearted man, I know I'm not a "Viking" or some warrior but I genuinely strive to be seen as a drengr and am proud of the life I've lead with the help and knowledge of this culture.
I feel the same about the Samurai, I learnt about them and the Bushido code during some tough times and it was very comforting and helped me grow from those negative experiences into a stronger, kinder and more resilient person.
I recently found out that my ancestors come from Northern Germany, Dutch, England, and Norway. My wife and I have been embracing my heritage and got a Norse rune for marriage for our 10 year anniversary. For our 11th anniversary my wife and I are going to be getting our daughters name in runes. My big project I want to do is get Yggdrasill on my back that is a family tree. I've also started to grow my beard and my hair out to not only honor my ancestors but also to honor my father who passed in 2022 (he had long hair and a beard).
I think the reason we are fascinated with the Vikings is because they are so badass! They had a true purpose in life, compared to nowadays. I mean cmon look around, people dont even know who or what they are. People need to feel connected to some kind of culture. People need to understand that culture cannot be contained by pieces of land borders or nations. It transcends all of that. Thanks for the video! God bless