In ancient times, Viking warriors would often call upon their Gods before a raid, or when going into battle. They would ask for fortune, fame, and glory from a pantheon of powers, each of whom was acknowledged as being capable of extending gifts in response to the presence of their favored virtues.

Thor, with his mighty hammer Mjolnir, was the patron God of thunder and war. He prized strength, honor and valor in battle above all else.

The Norsemen would invoke his name in prayers for the strength to cleave their enemies, as well as for protection: for themselves, and for their loved ones back home.

The Vikings observed all of their deities in what were considered to be their proper rituals and festivals, but Thor was one of the most popular. Much of the Norse way of life revolved heavily around what was seen as Thor’s area of influence over the natural world. He was believed to grant victory to the brave and the strong, and to welcome them to his side in Valhalla after they’d fought their last battle.

For centuries, men have been tattooing themselves with Mjolnir, the hammer of Thor, just as many did in the time of the Vikings. Its highly recognizable symbol still stands for many of the same virtues that it once did, signifying strength, power, and control over one’s own fortune through bravery in all things. A follower of Thor fights the hardest, laughs the loudest, celebrates most boisterously, and always lives life to the fullest.

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