The Viking Oath Ring - A Symbol of Loyalty and Honor

Have you ever sworn a promise, raising your hand or placing it on a sacred object? The Vikings did something similar – they used oath rings. These weren't just decorative metal bands but powerful symbols that held immense weight in Viking society. In this blog post, we'll journey to understand the history and symbolic meaning of Viking oath rings, uncovering how they shaped social interactions, warfare, and religious beliefs.

• The symbolic meaning behind Viking oath rings – how they represented more than just jewelry.
• The historical role of oath rings in Viking society – from swearing loyalty to binding treaties.
• The materials and designs used in Viking oath rings, and what they tell us about the wearer.
• Learn about the connection between oath rings and Norse mythology, including the role of gods like Ullr.
• See how the tradition of oath rings extends beyond the Vikings – their presence in other Germanic cultures.
• Examine the modern-day significance of oath rings – their use in Norse pagan practices and popular culture.

In Viking culture, oaths were incredibly important. Breaking an oath was serious, bringing shame and dishonor to the person and their family. Norse mythology even portrays Odin, the god of oaths, as a witness and enforcer of these promises.

Using the Oath ring

During oath-taking ceremonies, Vikings would swear loyalty or allegiance while holding or wearing the oath ring. This wasn't just a personal commitment but a public declaration witnessed by the community. The ring was a physical reminder of the oath, ensuring the promise was seen and remembered.

Today, Viking oath rings fascinate those interested in Norse history and culture. They are sometimes used in modern ceremonies inspired by Viking traditions, speaking of modern use, wedding rings have the same use, right? These rings remind us of the enduring values of loyalty and fidelity that were central to Viking society and continue to resonate today.

What is an oath ring?

An oath ring in Viking culture could be an arm ring or a larger ring that wasn’t worn but just sworn upon.

In old norse “baugr” (armlet/bracelet) and “hringr” (ring) are used in contexts of oath rings. It’s a symbol with deep significance. Often crafted from precious metals, these weren't just decorative, they held great cultural and social importance. They were used in ceremonies and rituals, especially when swearing oaths.

The tradition of the oath ring dates back to the Viking Age (around the 9th century) and even much earlier. Vikings, known for their strict codes of honor and loyalty, used these rings as tangible symbols of vows made between individuals or groups. Swearing an oath on these rings was considered sacred, binding the individuals involved to their word with the highest level of commitment.

The importance of oaths

In Viking society, an oath wasn't just a promise, it was a solemn vow. Breaking it could lead to social rejection and dishonor. The rings themselves, often elaborately designed with intricate patterns and symbols, served as a constant reminder of the vows made. They were sometimes used in legal and ceremonial contexts, such as establishing treaties or alliances, and in personal pledges of loyalty to leaders or family.

The Forsa rune ring - an interesting historical example

The "Forsaringen" is a specific artifact known as the Forsa Rune Ring. This historically significant ring has been linked to the practice of swearing oaths. It was likely used at a “ting” site, a gathering place for legal and communal decision-making. The ring's inscription, Sweden’s oldest law text, suggests its role in legal contexts.

Made of iron and measuring a substantial 43 cm in diameter, the Forsa Rune Ring highlights the importance placed on these objects. During a period it also hung on the door of a church, it's now kept in the parish office, with a copy displayed in the church. This artifact is a prime example of how physical objects like rings were integrated into Viking social and legal practices.

Materials and designs

Viking oath rings were typically made from precious metals, reflecting the wearer's wealth and the ring's importance. Here's a breakdown of the most common materials:

• Silver: Widely used due to its availability and ease of work, silver rings could be simple or highly ornate. They often served as currency as well as decorative items.
• Gold: Less common but a symbol of high status, gold rings were usually reserved for the elite. They were often gifts from leaders to loyal warriors, symbolizing not only an oath but also a reward.
• Bronze and Iron: More accessible materials, bronze and iron were used in earlier Viking periods or by less affluent individuals. These still held significant symbolic weight.
• Copper and Brass: Occasionally, copper and brass were used alone or combined with other metals to create visually striking rings.

The designs of Viking oath rings were as varied as the materials. Key design elements included:

• Animal Motifs: Representing loyalty or strength/protection, animal motifs might not just be decorative but also hold symbolic meanings.
• Intricate Patterns: Engravings and geometric designs often adorned the rings.

Symbolic meanings of Viking oath rings

Viking oath rings transcended mere ornamentation. They were imbued with profound symbolic meaning, woven into the fabric of Viking society.

• Markers of status and identity: An oath ring was a visual declaration of one's standing within the community. The material, craftsmanship, and even design of the ring could speak volumes about the wearer's social rank. A simple silver ring might adorn a small farm owner, while a leader might be gifted an intricately crafted gold ring by their king, signifying not just loyalty but also a reward for service.
  
  
• Oath-taking and sacred vows: The most significant role of the oath ring was undoubtedly its connection to oaths. Swearing an oath on an oath ring was a solemn act, binding the individual to their word with the highest degree of commitment. The ring served as a physical embodiment of the oath, a constant reminder of the vow made before the community.
  
  
• Symbols of loyalty and fidelity: Loyalty was a cornerstone of Viking society, and oath rings embodied this value. When a warrior swore allegiance to a leader while holding an oath ring, it wasn't just a promise; it was a public declaration of unwavering loyalty, often extending "to the death." Similarly, an oath ring exchanged between family members could symbolize unwavering support and trust.
  
  
• A bridge to the gods: Norse mythology suggests a connection between oath rings and the divine. Gods like Ullr were associated with oaths, and references exist to swearing oaths on "Ullr's ring." Wearing an oath ring could have been seen as a way to connect with the divine and invoke the gods as witnesses to the oath.

Some famous historical instances of oath rings

• The treaty of Alfred and Guthrum (Late 9th Century): The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle records that King Alfred the Great of Wessex and the Viking leader Guthrum swore an oath to mark the end of hostilities between Anglo-Saxons and Vikings in England.  The Danes were persuaded to swear an oath on a holy ring (Old English: hâlgan beage)
• The primary chronicle and the Byzantine treaty (941): This historical record describes Vikings led by Igor of Kyiv swearing to uphold a treaty with the Byzantine Empire. Igor swore by his sword. With time, the practice of swearing oaths on swords became intertwined with the symbolism of oath rings.  Swords, themselves imbued with meaning as objects of power, honor, and social status, became powerful platforms for solidifying oaths. In some cases, swords even incorporated physical rings into their design, further emphasizing the gravity of the vows being made. This connection is evident in the archeological discovery of ring-swords, prevalent during the Migration Period. These swords featured a small ring fixed to the hilt, interpreted as symbolic "oath rings".
• Úlfljót's Law and the Icelandic Legal System: This law describes using a two-ounce ring on the altar of every main temple for legal oaths. Individuals swore by the ring, invoking gods for truthfulness. A short text from Landnámabók: 

“A ring weighing two ounces or more should lie on the stall in every chief Temple, and this ring should every chief or goði have upon his arm at all public law-motes (logthing) at which he should be at the head of affairs, having first reddened it in the blood of a neat which he himself had sacrificed there. Every man who was there to transact any business, as by law provided by the Court, should first take an oath upon that ring and name for the purpose two or more witnesses and repeat the following words: — "I call to witness in evidence, he was to say, that I take oath upon the ring, a lawful one (lögeid) so help me Frey and Niord and the Almighty God, to this end that I shall in this case prosecute or defend or bear witness or give award or pronounce doom according to what I know to be most right and most true and most lawful, and that I will deal lawfully with all such matters in law as I have to deal with while I am at this Thing."

The modern Norse pagan view on oath rings

The modern Norse pagan view on oath rings is diverse, reflecting a blend of respect for history and contemporary practices. Oath rings continue to hold significant symbolic value within this community:

• Continued Use in Rituals: Similar to their historical counterparts, oath rings are used in modern Norse pagan rituals and ceremonies as sacred objects for swearing oaths.
• Symbolic Representation: Oath rings symbolize commitment and loyalty, not only to personal vows but also to the community and Norse gods. This is emphasized in ceremonies like weddings or initiations.
• Cultural and Spiritual Identity: For many modern Norse pagans, wearing an oath ring is a way to connect with their faith and heritage, acting as a daily reminder of their spiritual and cultural roots.
• Variability in Acceptance and Use: While many embrace the use of oath rings, there's variation in how strictly this practice is observed. Some see it as essential, while others view it as a cultural symbol without religious obligation.
• Influence of Popular Culture: The portrayal of Norse culture and oath rings in media like the TV series "Vikings" has increased awareness and adoption of Norse symbols, including oath rings, in modern pagan practices.

Oath rings in Norse mythology and the Icelandic sagas

The concept of oath rings is intertwined with Norse mythology:

• Ullr and Oath Rings: The god Ullr is associated with oath rings. References exist, such as in Atlakviða, of oaths being sworn on "Ullr's ring."
• Odin and Oaths: Odin, the All-Father, is described swearing an oath on a ring in Hávamal 110. This highlights the sacredness of oaths and the significance of rings in these solemn promises.
• In the Icelandic sagas: Descriptions from sagas such as the Eyrbyggja saga and Víga-Glúms saga detail rings on temple altars used for oath swearing, sometimes anointed with sacrificial blood.

Oath rings in other Germanic tribes

The practice of using rings for swearing oaths was widespread among early Germanic cultures:

• East Germanic Cultures: Sacred rings like the ring of Pietroassa exist, bearing an inscription indicating the use of rings in religious and possibly oath-swearing contexts among the Goths.
• Anglo-Saxon England: The agreement between Alfred and Guthrum.
• Continental Germanic Tribes: A 4th-century letter describes arm rings being worn by heathen Gothic priests. This suggests the practice of wearing rings, possibly including oath rings, was present among continental Germanic tribes as well.

These examples demonstrate that the use of rings, including for swearing oaths, was a common practice across various Germanic tribes, not limited to the Norse.

In conclusion 

Viking oath rings were far more than just decorative accessories. They were potent symbols woven into the very fabric of Viking society. We've explored their rich symbolism, from markers of status and loyalty to sacred objects used for oath-taking. We've delved into their historical significance, uncovering their use in binding treaties and solidifying vows. We've even discovered their connection to Norse mythology and their presence in other Germanic cultures. Finally, we've seen how these fascinating rings continue to resonate today, holding meaning for modern Norse pagans and inspiring cultural representations. The legacy of the Viking oath ring lives on, reminding us of the enduring values of loyalty, honor, and the power of a solemn vow.

Frequently asked questions about Viking oath rings

What is an oath ring and what does it mean?

An oath ring, also known as an arm ring in Viking culture, was a symbol of deep significance. Crafted from precious metals, these rings were not merely decorative; they held great cultural and social importance. Used in ceremonies and rituals, especially when swearing oaths, these rings were crucial to Viking society and personal honor. Swearing an oath on these rings was considered sacred, binding the individuals involved to their word with the highest level of commitment.

What is the modern Norse pagan view on oath rings?

Modern Norse pagans hold oath rings in high regard, viewing them as a link to their historical past and a vital element of their current religious and cultural practices. Oath rings are used in various rituals and ceremonies as sacred objects upon which oaths are sworn. They symbolize commitment and fidelity, not only to one's vows but also to the broader community and the gods of Norse mythology.

Are there oath rings in Norse mythology?

Yes, oath rings are mentioned in Norse mythology. For example, the god Ullr is associated with oath rings, and there are references to oaths being sworn on "Ullr's ring." Additionally, Odin, the chief of the Norse gods, is described as swearing an oath on a ring in the poetic edda, underscoring the sacred nature of such oaths and the significance of rings in these solemn promises.

Were oath rings used by other Germanic tribes?

Yes, the practice of using rings for swearing oaths was widespread among early Germanic cultures, not just the Norse. For example, the East Germanic Goths used sacred rings, and the Anglo-Saxons in England also used oath rings in their legal and diplomatic practices. This indicates that the use of oath rings was a common practice across various Germanic tribes.

How were Viking oath rings used historically?

Historically, Viking oath rings were used in a variety of contexts, from legal proceedings and diplomatic treaties to personal pledges of loyalty and allegiance. They were often used in oath-taking ceremonies, where Vikings would swear loyalty or allegiance while holding or wearing the oath ring. This act was a public declaration witnessed by the community, and the ring served as a physical reminder of the oath, ensuring the promise was both seen and remembered.

Sources

• The Russian primary chronicle
• Landnámabók
• The Hostages of the Northmen: From the Viking Age to the Middle Ages, Part III: Ritual Actions in Different Areas of Confrontation
• Havamal
• Poetic Edda
• Barbarian Rites: The Spiritual World of the Vikings and the Germanic Tribes
• Dictionary of Northern Mythology