World Tree Yggdrasil Meaning and Symbolism

The tree that connects heaven, earth, and the underworld appears in many cultures. In Norse myths, this tree is Yggdrasil. And you probably know it as the World Tree, a giant ash that holds together the nine worlds.

This article explores the meaning of the World Tree, its symbolism, and the best Yggdrasil jewelry from the Legends collection.

World Tree meaning

So, according to mythologies, the Tree of Life is a single, central tree that:

Stands at the center of the universe
Connects different realms (sky, earth, underworld)
Acts as a bridge between gods, humans, and spirits

In Norse mythology, Yggdrasil is an immense ash tree whose roots and branches hold together the Nine Worlds – from Asgard, the realm of the gods, to Midgard, the human world, and Hel, the land of the dead.

Similar “world trees” appear in other traditions, like Slavic sacred oaks, the Vedic aśvattha tree, and others.

Yggdrasil in Norse Myth

Yggdrasil stands in the middle of the Norse cosmos. Its branches reach into the sky, and its three great roots run into three wells.

Urdarbrunnr – well of fate, where the past, present, future shape the destinies of gods and humans.
Mímisbrunnr – well of wisdom, guarded by Mimir.
Hvergelmir – primal spring, source of many rivers and life itself.

One of the central myths takes place on the World Tree. To gain knowledge of the runes, Odin hangs himself from Yggdrasil for nine nights, wounded by his own spear, without food or drink.

He sacrifices himself “to himself” and returns with new wisdom. In modern language, Yggdrasil becomes a symbol of transformation through trials, the place where you choose growth.

World Tree Symbolism

Why does this symbol still resonate? In modern reading, the World Tree can stand for:

Connection – between roles, worlds, and parts of your identity
Grounding and growth – deep roots plus branches reaching out
Resilience – the ability to bend, suffer damage, and still live
Guidance – a vertical “axis” that helps you orient in chaos
Rebirth – endings that lead to a new cycle rather than emptiness

A piece with Yggdrasil on it is not only “Viking décor”. It can work as a quiet reminder of your own long-term path - where you come from, what sustains you, and what you grow toward.

5 Best World Tree Pieces from VarVar Jewelry

Below are five key pieces from the World Tree collection built around a slightly different facet of Yggdrasil.

1. Yggdrasil Pendant

This is the “core” World Tree talisman in the collection.

A detailed Yggdrasil fills the pendant, roots and branches woven into a full circle – a compact image of the nine realms held together.

Buy it if you want one clear symbol of connection and resilience, without additional runes or weapons.

2. Yggdrasil Ring with Ornament

Here the World Tree wraps around the finger like a continuous story.

A band in 925 silver with Yggdrasil framed by traditional Norse knot ornament. The relief and oxidized background highlight the trunk and branches, giving the tree a strong, graphic look.

It is good for those who see their path as a long-term commitment – building a business, family, or craft. The ring format fits the idea of “vows” and long-range decisions.

3. Yggdrasil Symbol Ring

This ring takes a cleaner approach with less ornament and more focus on the tree itself. A round face with Yggdrasil as the central emblem in sterling silver, with contrast between polished elements and a darker background.

This ring is a great choice if you want the symbol visible and readable at a glance. It is a reminder to stay rooted while you’re actively changing things in your life.

4. Yggdrasil with Mjolnir Pendant

Here you can see the two strongest Norse symbols:

Yggdrasil means cosmic order, connection of worlds
Thor’s hammer is about active protection, strength, and the power to act

The hammer shape carries an Yggdrasil motif, turning the weapon of Thor into a carrier of the World Tree itself.

This pendant is for someone who is not just seeking inner balance, but also needs to fight for their goals. It’s about standing your ground while staying aligned with something bigger than personal ego.

5. Yggdrasil with Triquetra Symbol Pendant

This pendant adds another ancient symbol to the World Tree: the triquetra, a three-looped knot long used in Celtic art and later Christian art as a sign of unity and interwoven forces. Yggdrasil stands at the center, framed or accompanied by the triquetra motif, all in detailed sterling silver.

It emphasizes cycles and triple structures: past–present–future, body–mind–spirit, birth–life–death. Good for someone working on integrating different parts of life.