Helm of Awe Meaning & Symbolism

The Vikings were renowned warriors, fearless and awe-inspiring. Medieval accounts tell how, before going into battle, they would mark their foreheads with a powerful symbol called the Aeishjalmr.

The word 'Aegishjalmr' is Norse and is made up of two words: 'Aegis' or Shield, and 'Hjalmr' or Helm, a position of control (as in the helm of a ship). The Helm of Awe was said to have magic that empowered the warriors with invincibility.

An epic poem of that age tells the tale: “The Helm of Awe / I wore before the sons of men / In defense of my treasure / Amongst all, I alone was strong / I thought to myself / For I found no power a match for my own.”

The Helm of Awe symbol is a dramatic graphic representation of its meaning: Eight pitchfork-like tridents with all 24 points facing outward creating an impenetrable defensive barrier to defend the inner central circle.