Oak Tree Symbolism in Norse Mythology

If you are a Norse myth reader, chances are that you know the great Tree of Life. Its name is Yggdrasil Great Tree. Many sources mentioned Yggdrasil as an oak tree standing tall in the middle of the cosmos.

This blog post is to discuss the meaning of oak tree symbolism based on the Yggdrasil Tree in Norse mythology.

Symbolism aside, oak trees are important for various reasons. The oak tree belongs to the Quercus genus tree species – there are up to 800 species all over the world, especially in the Northern hemisphere where they are native.

It’s a long-lived tree which can live for more than 1000 years. The oak is a tree with multiple uses. The shape of the blade is very characteristic and is found in badges, coins, and medals.

Yggdrasil Tree of Life holding Nine Worlds in Norse mythology within its branches 

Oak trees support a complex ecosystem with many species, including humans. The oak is one of the most loved trees by humans, and it can be easily found in many artistic creations. I think those are the reasons why the Vikings really appreciated the oak tree and brought it to their mythology.

For the longevity of the oak tree, it is often seen as the symbol of wisdom and experience in the ancient world. The roots of an oak tree also reach further than we can think of. Surely it cannot reach heaven and hell but it can reach farther than many types of trees back to ancient times. The oak tree is also a sign of survival. Because commonly, the Vikings built their ships from the oak tree. And it was the ships that brought the Vikings to make their names known around the cosmos and hit every corner of Europe. Observing these characteristic traits of the oak tree, the Vikings brought it to their mythology.