Mammal Tattoos
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Monday, May 3rd, 2010
Badger Tattoo Meaning
Badger tattoo meaning
at-a-glance:
- Determination
- Cunning
- Intelligence
- Protection
- Slyness
- Defense
- Prosperity
- Survival
- Magic
- Deception
- Solitude
Badgers are rugged, persistent creatures and know how to: a) get what they want, and b) survive. They will fill these very basic needs with remarkable ferocity too, if need be. Do you feel like you need to defend yourself or your territory at all costs? Are you looking for a symbol of tenacity, endurance and vicious fortitude? The badger might be a great totem tattoo to convey your own ability to obtain your desires through rigorous determination.
Badgers are incredibly intelligent too. Their intelligence is two-fold: They can strategize, sure, but they also maintain uncanny sensory perceptions. They are infinitely linked to their surroundings and they have the ability to perceive even the smallest shifts in their environment. Their cunning allows them to strategize their actions to their best advantage.
In Japan, badgers are considered symbolic of self-advancement. There is a sense of personal achievement and industry where the badger is concerned. A badger is considered to look after its own interests, and can be deceitful in satisfying his own needs. Success in business sometimes call for a self-serving attitude, and this is why the badger is considered a prosperous symbol in business. They’re often seen as statues standing at the front door of business establishments in Japan. When they are, it’s a cue there’s a very shrewd and cunning business owner at the helm. This might be noteworthy for you if you are in need of toughening your personal resolve in business – or adopting a more strategic mentality in your industry.
The badger does a lot of digging, and in esoteric symbolism this links the animal to the earth - a very grounded, nurturing, foundational energy. Furthermore, the burrowing badger is a symbol of magic, because this act is symbolic of returning to the Source. Burrowing into the earth is also akin to returning to the womb in metaphorical symbolism. A return to our Source (as in a Divine Force), our roots, our home, the earth…these are all profound messages the badger bears. And, returning to the womb of our inception has crazy-magical connotations. If you are on a journey to return to your true nature, and all the primal energy you represent – a badger tattoo might be just the image to ignite your return.
In Native American symbolism the badger is linked with both earth, but also the moon. It is a nocturnal creature, which would explain its association with lunar symbolism. The badger is also pretty solitary – a hermit of the forest, and therefore is seen as a secretive being. This reclusive behavior along with moon symbolism make the badger a symbol of self-reflection, intuition, introspection and observation. The badger makes its progress in subtle, hidden movements – something the hermetic practitioner in all of us should respect. If you’re a loner, and you like to get things done in your own unsuspecting yet unusual ways – the badger might be a tattoo to convey you silent power.
I’ve written a page on general badger meanings - check it out here: Badger Symbolic Meanings.
You might also be interested in my page on animal tracks, where I’ve written about badger tracks symbolism.
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Mammal Tattoos, Native American Tattoos, Oriental Tattoos, Personal Observations, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: cunning, defense, determination, fierce, grounded, intellect, introspection, intuitive, magic, observation, perception, perceptive, persistence, prosperity, protection, sly, solitude, strength, survivor
Thursday, April 29th, 2010
Stag Tattoo Symbolism
Stag tattoo meaning
(at-a-glance):
- Heroism
- Confidence
- Pride
- Nobility
- Strength
- Virility
- Cycles
- Provision
- Protection
The stag is a symbol of strength in countless cultures, legends and myth throughout history and across the globe. Why? Gee, just take a look at one – in the wilderness or even in a National Geographic mag – these beasts are stunning to behold.
Most notably, their antlers are symbolic of their dominance within the ranks of Nature. The bigger the rack – the more virile they are considered (by both doe and in human archetypal understanding). In their environment – antlers are tools and weapons. In a battle of territory and sexual conquest, size does matter and a massive antler-arrangement goes a long way to insure proper respect. Same holds true with a stag tattoo sporting an awesome fan of antlers. They’re symbolic of age (wisdom), elitism and superiority.
Antlers are also considered a solar feature by many Native perspectives. It’s because antlers resemble expanding rays of the sun. If we add solar symbolism to stag antlers, we get a symbolic mix of: Vitality, Energy, Radiance and Right-Action.
A stag tattoo meaning can also point to the recycling nature of all life. Here again, it’s their antlers that point to this aspect. Stags grow antlers in the Spring (symbolic of birth, renewal, the return of life), and fall off in the Fall (symbolic of death, introspection and hibernation). Are you keen about your own personal cycles of being? Do you profoundly feel the rise and fall of Nature and Time? The Stag might help you express these stirrings in a bold way.
Of course, if you’re a hunter, a Stag tattoo might be common sense. Let’s hope you’re in touch with the ancient history behind hunting, and the fact of interconnectivity of all life. Maybe a Stag tattoo can galvanize the concept of becoming one: The hunter and the hunted sharing an infinite bond – a shamanistic sharing of souls.
Celtic symbolism hold the Stag in high regard. A symbol of masculine fortitude and an icon of virile power. In their myths, a white Stag was considered a message of divine importance. Tons of heros of Celtic legend were lead to (enlightenment?) victory by a white stag.
More information about this unique symbolism can be found here:
Symbolism of the Deer
White Deer Symbolism
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Celtic Tattoos, Mammal Tattoos, Native American Tattoos, Personal Observations, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: bold, confidence, cycles, fertility, heroism, honor, noble, protection, provision, sacrifice, sexuality, strength, stud, survivor, virtue, vitality
Monday, January 18th, 2010
Panther Tattoo Symbolism
Panther tattoo symbolism
at-a-glance:
- Power
- Stealth
- Action
- Protection
- Dark Mystery
- Attraction
- Sensuality
- Deep Magic
- Feminine Power
- Solitary
- Stealthiness
- Invincibility
- Shadow Self
- Shamanic Sight
- Secret Keeper
- Sorcery
- Intelligence
- Ferocity
- Agility
- Stamina
- Patience
- Silence
- Honor
In order to familiarize ourselves with the power and purpose that backs up panther tattoos, it behooves us to observe a bit about the panther in the wild.
In their natural habitat, panthers are stalkers. They track movements of their prey, stealthily prowl and ambush the object of their hunt from a blind-side. This is symbolic of strategy. The panther contemplates its most advantageous tactic. Are you a calculating individual? Do you sit back and observe your surroundings before you act? Do you take in the details, and then pounce on opportunities when the timing is right? If this sounds like you, then the panther may be the perfect totem tattoo for you.
Not only do these magnificent creatures symbolize intelligence and tact, they also represent deep aspects of magic. This is largely due to their native habitat. The panther dwells within the deepest regions of the darkest jungles. In ancient cultures the panthers home is within the richest wombs of the earth – where moist emerald jungles teem with life, breathe with diversity and glisten with rich vitality.
It is here the panther claims its kingdom and silently roams its dense and exotic realms. There is much that remains unknown within the folds of the jungle – and the unknown is the gateway to magic. It makes sense the panther is the keeper of this dark, sacred magic. Do the realms of shadow, and the lands of exotic unknowns excite you? The panther tattoo is a fitting memorial for this kind of fascination.
The sense of magic and the idea of the panther as a sacred “secret keeper” is enhanced by it’s obsidian hues. Black panthers are symbolic of the night – where secrets are kept tightly locked away from the light of the sun. Black is a color of mystery and silence and deep secrets. Black is also a very lunar energy and can be associated with the Divine Feminine.
Interestingly, the panther is a solitary creature, preferring its own company over anyone else’s. Outside of a mother raising her cubs, panthers live, hunt and evolve alone. This is symbolic of the Hermit - an ancient archetype of one who contemplates and evolves in unique understandings due to living a solitary life. Living in this manner causes unorthodox insights, and brings one closer to understanding various precious secrets of life because there are no distractions.
Just something to consider as you embark upon your exploration of getting a panther tattoo. If you tend to enjoy solitude, contemplating the deeper mysteries in life, the panther may be calling to you.
The panther is also considered a symbol of protection, and many South American myths identify the panther as the guardian of spirit worlds. In the wild, panthers hunt during dusk and dawn – these are considered to be powerful moments in time among ancient cultures. Dusk and dawn are moments of transition and magical metamorphosis – moments of infinite potential.
This, combined with it’s sleek black coat, piercing eyes and consummate hunting skills makes the panther a legendary guardian of other realms, and spiritual worlds. Are you the protector of your own special worlds? Are you the guardian of your clan or tribe? Perhaps a panther tattoo is the right emblem to convey your powerful ability to guard that which is precious to you.
On the prowl for more information? I don’t blame you, I’m always prowling around for more too. Take a look at my Panther Symbolism page for more intriguing symbolic tidbits.
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Indigenous Tattoos, Mammal Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Native American Tattoos, Personal Observations, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: action, agile, attraction, faith, feminine, guardian, honor, infinite, intelligence, invincible, magic, mystery, patience, power, protection, secret, sensuality, shadow, shamanism, spiritual, stamina, stealth, strength, wisdom
Monday, August 31st, 2009
Bull Tattoo Symbolism
Bull Tattoo Symbolism
(at-a-glance):
- Provision
- Confidence
- Fertility
- Virility
- Charged
- Power
- Protection
- Sacred
- Peace
- Holy
- Provision
- Stability
- Forceful
- Assistance
- Grounding
- Natural
- Assertive
- Satisfaction
- Comfort
Bull tattoo symbolism can go in two directions. They can convey power, authority and confidence. Or, they can illustrate peace and a deep honor for the sacredness of spirituality. Which direction you move with your bull tattoo will be up to you.
As a symbol of power and confidence we look to the bull’s massive physical stature for these identifications. It is a mammoth mammal weighing in around 1000-2500 pounds (about the same weight as some vehicles!) We are all familiar with the term “charging bull” and so imagine a raging beast this size. That’s a clear image of solid, unstoppable assertiveness. To be sure, if you want your tattoo to express a powerhouse of will, and a force to be reckoned with – the bull is a clear choice.
The bull also shares symbolism with the Taurus sign in the astrological zodiac. In this perspective, the bull is symbolic of stability, comfort and self-assurance. If any of you know a Taurus, you will know they can be stubborn. They know right and wrong in their guts and they will defend their positions just as vehemently as a charging bull does. They will not be swayed. So, a bull tattoo might be a good choice to honor the bullish tendencies of the Taurus (if you or a loved one is the sign of a Taurus).
The bull (or Ox) is also in Chinese astrology and represents attributes like: Loyalty, reliability, strength, steadiness, determination.
I’ve seen many rodeo pros and enthusiasts with bull tattoos. They’ve told me their tattoo represents their ability to harness raw power as they all straddle and ride the bull for those legendary eight seconds. Bull tattoo symbolism also carries a message of “facing down fear” for many bull riders and rodeo pros.
As an ancient archetype, the bull is symbolic of fertility, virility and sexual strength. The bull has been honored by ancient cultures at being well endowed and so (from a typically male and very human perspective) honored for its ability to please its mate.
Bulls are also consummate providers for mankind. For example, they’ve walked with farmers in the agricultural process for centuries – enabling man to grow and harvest. In this light, the bull tattoo can serve as a reminder we can work with nature and our animal kin in order to meet our needs.
This aspect of provision is also symbolic of peace, harmony and cooperation. Bulls have been labeled the “beasts of burden” taken on tremendous tasks of strength in order to help mankind in our labours. Bulls do this with a stoic nobility. Peacefully providing their power for our benefit. It’s no wonder the normally calm-natured animal is held sacred by so many.
Other pages of interest for your tattoo research:
Bull Symbolism (full article)
Bull Symbol in the Tarot
Celtic Bull Symbolism
Cow Symbolism
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Astrological Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Mammal Tattoos, Occupational Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos, Uncategorized | 1 Response »
Tags: abundance, assertion, beauty, comfort, confidence, courage, determination, fertility, force, materialism, nature, peace, persistence, power, progress, provision, satisfaction, stability, strength, virility
Thursday, August 20th, 2009
Cat Tattoo Symbolism
Cat Tattoo Symbolism
(at-a-glance):
- Independence
- Mystery
- Magic
- Secretiveness
- Feminine/Goddess Energy
- Stealthy
- Hidden power
- Aloofness
- Solitude
- Companionship
- Renewal
- Transformation
- Freedom
- Vitality
- Transition
- Luck
- Cleverness
- Intelligence
- Playfulness
- Wandering spirit
- Incarnation
- Apathy
- Authority
- Protection
- Royalty
- Shapeshifting
- Shadows
- Watchfulness
- Psychism
- Grace
- Beauty
- Adoration
With a long list of symbolic meanings like this, there are plenty of reasons to consider a cat tattoo for your next ink adventure.
We can make sense of some of these symbolic attributes by investigating the various cultural/mythological deities associated with cats. Many of these deities are goddesses and have feminine/lunar qualities which carry themes of: Fertility, Nurturing, Emotion and Intuition to name a few.
Here are some deities associated with cats to round out your research into cat tattoo symbolism:
- Artemis (Greek): Lunar goddess associated with hunting, fertility & protector of the sacredness of Nature.
- Diana (Roman): Also a moon goddess who help all wildlife and Nature as sacred. Governed the sacred act of the hunt.
- Hecate(Greek): Goddess guardian of the sacred feminine, holder of magic knowledge, cycles, transition, shapeshifting
- Bast (Egyptian): Solar goddess, fiercely protective of children and matron of childbirth, magic, ritual and sacred feminine
- Freyja (Norse): Goddess of love, beauty, pleasure, childbirth and good taste. Cats pulled her chariot.
I have several friends with cat tattoos. Most of them tell me the reason for their cat-inspired ink is to memorialize the passing of a dear feline friend. Those who aren’t commemorating their pet, tell me they got their cat tattoo as a symbol of protection. They understood the ways of ancient mythological gods/goddesses and drew upon the protective qualities of the cat as a means to bolster their own confidence.
In fact, to the ancient Celtic way of thinking cats were consideredthe guardians of the Otherworld (or Underworld, depending which texts you read from various regions). Stoic, silent and mysterious, it’s clear why cats make outstanding Otherworld guardians. They keep the secrets of the Otherworld eternally to themselves, as the gaze with guile upon a world that does not see or understand the depth of their knowledge. Astute, crafty and clever, cats were considered residents of Celtic mystic realms too. When invoked, cat energy can grant the caller a variety of insights regarding esoteric, ethereal knowledge. These powerful meanings in Celtic lore often play an important role in selecting cats for tattoos.
I like the theme of shape-shifting when discussing cat tattoos. In Japan, folk tales describe cats having the ability to walk between worlds. Other Japanese legends tell of cats joining forces with women to shift their behavior and demeanor. This tale seeks to explain woman’s unpredictable, sometimes secretive nature.
Western European folklore also keeps record of cats aiding women in feats of shape-shifting. Early writings about witchcraft report cats always drawing close to women practicing witchcraft – they were called “familiars.” The term refers to the ability to move as a cat does in otherworldly ways… shape-shifting or casting out magic by secret means – just as a cat often moves about in sleek, stealthy ways.
Whether you are seeking cat tattoo symbolism in the form of honoring the passing of a beloved pet, or paying homage to ancient goddesses who claimed the cat as their companion in myth – to be sure, the cat is an awesome subject for your next tattoo.
More information for your Tattoo Research:
Cat Symbolism (domestic & general symbolic meanings).
Cat Symbolism in Tarot
Moon Symbolism
Celtic Symbolism
Cats as Celtic Zodiac Sign
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Celtic Tattoos, Egyptian Tattoos, Mammal Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Oriental Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: authority, beauty, clever, cleverness, companionship, confidence, feminine, freedom, independence, intelligence, luck, lucky, magic, oracle, playfulness, power, protection, royalty, secrets, shapeshifting, spirituality, transition
Wednesday, May 13th, 2009
Dolphin Tattoos and Meanings
Dolphin Tattoos and Meanings
(at-a-glance):
- Intelligence
- Playfulness
- Friendship
- Freedom
- Intuition
- Sensitivity
- Dreaming
- Connection
- Happiness
- Protection
- Love
Dolphin tattoos may convey a sense of playfulness by the wearer as the dolphin itself is renowned for its sense of play, joy and freedom.
Dolphins are well noted for their intelligence. In ancient Greece, the dolphin symbolized god-like intelligence and was associated with the powerful god Apollo. Apollo is also a deity who represents light and so dolphin tattoos will convey higher thought, and an illumined life. As an associate of Apollo the dolphin will also have kingly traits like: Strength, Power and Authority. We also see these themes in the dolphin’s association with Poseidon. Indeed, the Greeks dubbed the dolphin as the “King of the Sea” and with this moniker, kingly attributes will also apply to the dolphin.
The ancient Greeks also viewed the dolphin as the transporter of souls to Isles of the Blessed. In this light we pick up symbolic themes of transition, transformation and ascending to new levels of being. Symbolism of resurrection and dolphins also shows up in Christian art as the dolphin is also featured as a carrier of souls. In this respect, dolphin tattoos may also represent the light of Christ comforting and guiding souls to their final spiritual home.
The dolphin may also have lunar meanings too. It’s semi-circle body shape (notably seen during airborne flips) looks like crescent moons. The dolphin is also a companion of Aphrodite who maintains feminine and moon symbolism. With moon associations comes traits like: Intuition, Dreaming, Psychism, Depth, Emotion.
Two dolphin tattoos together will represent both sun and moon. It also symbolizes duality, partnership, cooperation and balance.
Other pages of interest for your dolphin tattoo researching pleasure:
Symbolism of the Dolphin (full article)
Symbolism of Water
Symbolism of the Moon
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Christian Tattoos, Fish Tattoos, Mammal Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: compassion, connection, dreaming, freedom, friendship, happiness, intelligence, intuition, joy, love, protection, sensitivity
Wednesday, April 29th, 2009
Fox Tattoo Symbolism
Fox Tattoo Symbolism
(at-a-glance):
- Clever
- Playful
- Focused
- Shapeshifting
- Skillful
- Secretive
- Resourceful
- Health
- Sexuality
- Lucky
- Vitality
- Guile
Symbolism of the fox has tricky connotations. In fact, the fox is connected with the trickster archetype, Loki in Norse myth. Native American mythology of North America indicates the fox as a trickster too – but of a morally neutral position – ambivalent to consequences too.
In truth, the fox is incredibly intelligent. It gets its tricky symbolism because it’s astoundingly adept at escaping traps, evading predators and moving around (particularly at night) in its environment.
Symbolism of shapeshifting comes into play from Chinese symbolism as well as Japan, Native North American Indians, Eastern India, to name a few. These and other various cultures recognized the fox’s ability to adapt to its environment and escape from harm by seemingly supernatural means.
Fox tattoo symbolism in this light will indicate: Intelligence, adaptability, strategy – and a stealthy (but lovable) way of moving in social circles.
As a symbol of sexuality, we think of the term “foxy” as an adjective for sultry beauty. Indeed, Chinese lore indicates various fox parts (testicles, tail, teeth, claws) were used as aphrodisiacs. Thankfully, we have tattoos to convey sexual prowess- no need to go chopping up fox parts. Sheesh.
In European folklore the fox is symbolic of stealth, cunning and slyness.
The red fox is particularly symbolic of sexual prowess (red being a symbolic color of the root chakra, or primal energy). The red fox is also associated with the realm of solar animals and carries meanings of: Vitality, Life, Energy and Health
It’s black feet and legs are symbolic of that sneaky nature I’ve been talking about here. It conveys a feeling of being able to shadow about, and obtain things in a cloaked manner.
Here are a few other pages that will enhance your thoughts about fox tattoo symbolism:
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Mammal Tattoos, Native American Tattoos | 5 Responses »
Tags: clever, health, luck, playful, resourceful, sexuality, transformation, vitality
