A Grove of Ashes and Aspens

Now Playing: The Horned Ghost and the Sorcerer by Elvenking

I recently got a tattoo, and I’m very happy with how it turned out. I got it done at a friend’s studio in my home city, and it’s a bindrune that means a lot to me.

Now, getting this done brought a thought to my mind. Many symbols from the old Norse culture have been used or modified and used by and/or inspired white supremacist groups and individuals.

Especially when it comes to runic tattoos, it is good to keep in mind that while some symbols are solely used in white supremacist groups (eg the winged Othala), this is not true for all symbols. It is always worth looking into specific symbols and specific runes and rune combinations, especially if you’re unsure.

As a broader thing within the realm of getting specific symbols as tattoos, it’s also important to consider the specifics of the design and exactly where you’re placing it. Some symbols can have general religious meanings with some designs in most places, but when oriented in a specific way and in a very specific place, can denote some very racist intent. Keeping this in mind is also important when interacting with this kind of thing.

It’s a smaller thing that isn’t always super necessary to always be aware of, but it is important to just have it in the back of your mind.