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Fire Tattoo Symbolism

Monday, April 5th, 2010
Fire Tattoo Symbolism

Fire Tattoo Symbolism


Fire Tattoo Symbolism
(at-a-glance):

  • Power
  • Passion
  • Heat
  • Desire
  • Consumption
  • Energy
  • Transformation
  • Vitality
  • Sensuality

Mostly, fire shows up as an element within a tattoo – like a design enhancement to really drive home the idea of passion within the whole piece of art.

To me, fire symbolism in a tattoo talks about conversion and transformation.  Nothing comes away from fire unchanged.  Fire transforms everything within its path.  Fire alters the structure, function, appearance and even chemical compositions of everything it touches.  This reminds me of the alchemical credo: Transmogrification.

We see this kind of conversion in the alchemical phoenix.  Just when this regal bird is utterly consumed in flame, and we think its at the end of its cycle – it reemerges from its own ashes - transformed, renewed, purified.

Purification is a big symbolic bi-product of fire.  Sterilization, cleansing – even baptismal concepts are associated with fire.  If you’re looking for a tattoo element that conveys a sense of being reborn, fire might be a great tattoo element.  Or, perhaps you feel as though you are emmerging from a difficult ordeal, and you feel renewed on your life-path, a fire tattoo might be a good way to express that experience.

Countless ancient cultures have held fire as a symbol of hearth and home.  From the home fires of Hestia burning a sense of welcome and warmth, to the bonfires of Belanus (Celtic god) marking victory in protecting the clans against encroaching warlords – fire is a clear symbol of keeping community together.  Consider your own community – do the fires of connection and inclusion burn brightly within your own clan?  Are you the protector and the way-seer for your people?  If so, a fire tattoo might further embolden your passion for keeping your family together, safe and protected.

Fire reminds us of our passions – on a sexual level as well as spiritual levels. Flames are often depicted in ancient art to convey a sense of deep ardor (love) and burning desire.  It’s not all about sex though.  If you feel consumed by your faith, and surrender to your spiritual path daily – a fire tattoo might be a way to burn that ideal in your psyche.

Astrological speaking, there are three fire signs within the western zodiac: Aries, Leo and Sagittarius.  This denotes a personality with fiery passion.  If you’re getting a tattoo of your fire sign (your own, or of someone you love as a memorial tattoo), you may want to incorporate fire along with your astrological sign to convey a sense of adventure, boldness and high-energy.  Check out more on astrology signs and symbolism here.

If you need more kindling for your fire tattoo ideas, check out my Fire Symbols page here.

Posted in Alchemy Tattoos, Astrological Tattoos, Celtic Tattoos, Indigenous Tattoos, Personal Observations, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | 2 Responses »
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Dog Tattoo Meaning and Symbolism

Monday, March 29th, 2010
Dog Tattoo Meaning and Symbolism

Dog Tattoo Meaning and Symbolism


 Dog Tattoo Meaning and Symbolism
(at-a-glance):

  • Confidence
  • Loyalty
  • Strength
  • Community
  • Friendship
  • Obedience
  • Protection
  • Courage
  • Intelligence
  • Guidance
  • Determination
  • Faithfulness
  • Perception
  • Community
  • Guardianship
  • Teamwork

Most of the dog tattoos I see are memorial tattoos – permanent displays of personal love and affection for a canine companion who has passed into the great dog lands of the heavens.

Interestingly, dogs themselves are considered sentinels to the gateways of the Otherworlds.  In ancient Egyptian, Celtic, Greco-Roman and other myths, the dog represents a kind of “psychopomp” or spiritual guide – an ally while a human soul is transferring between the realms of physical and non-physical.  Do you feel you are straddling the dimensions of worldly life and ephemeral reality?  Perhaps a dog tattoo can solidify a feeling of guardianship and protection as you move through the veils of reality and experience.

In Shamanic wisdom (as well as Celtic thought), the dog is associated with the powers of the forest.  Here we see canines as keen, savvy wilderness guides.  Hearty, strong and stead-fast to leading us through dark and infinitely mystical territory, the dog is a champion guide.  Dogs are phenomenal companions on any kind of journey (spiritual, physical, emotional).  A dog tattoo might be a great way to convey that concept of guidance as you wind your way through dark forests of life.

In Asian symbolism, the dog is incredibly good luck.  The Chinese prescribe symbolism of prosperity, good fortune, obedience and friendliness to the dog.  The dog is also associated with Aquarius in the Chinese zodiac, and therefore is considered to have an amicable disposition.  Philanthropic, empathic and very well-liked are other attributes.  If you need a bit of luck or a boost in your social standing, a dog tattoo might be the reminder you need for these aspects.

Dogs are associated with both lunar  and solar qualities. 

As a moon-connected creature, the dog reminds us to move in-sync with the shadows in our midst.  Moon dogs also ask us to release ourselves to our untamed selves.  Howl at the moon.  Copulate by moonlight. Go mad with lunar lust.  Dogs do it, so can your soul.  A moon-dog tattoo might underscore a need to break out of conformity.

Solar dogs will remind us of our vitality, strength and courage.  Dogs associated with the sun are also symbolic of bright self-expression and clear communication.  Countless cultures have recruited dogs in the aid of agriculture (a sun-affiliated field), as well as war/battle (also associated with the heat of the sun).  If you’re looking to bolster bravado and/or you’re aiming for illuminated self-expression, a sun-dog tattoo might be your sign. 

The color of your dog tattoo is a tale-teller too.  White dogs are symbolic of purification, clarity, virtue and stamina.  Black dogs have a lunar flavor to them and hearken back to the baying hounds of Hecate who is the mistress of shadows.  Red dogs convey virility and a sense of victory in personal battles.

Dogs are also considered animal healers.  They are associated with sacred waters in Celtic mythology (which offer healing/cleansing power).  Canines are also depicted with Asclepius, an ancient Greek physician of renown portent.  In many cultures, dogs were thought to have immense healing powers.  Ancients observed dogs tending to their own wounds (licking) with remarkable healing results.  Are you a healer? Shamanic wisdom encourages you to invite the dog in your healing practices, as this creature will guide you in more effective healing results.  A dog tattoo may also serve as a dynamic statement of your power and desire to heal others (and/or yourself).

This is just a small sampling of dog symbolism for tattoos.  If you dig it, check out my more in-depth page on Dog Meaning and Symbolism here.

Other canine compatriots:

Wolf Symbolism

Coyote Symbolism

Animal Track Symbolism

Fox Symbolism (general)

Fox Tattoo Meanings

Dog Symbolism

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Moon Tattoo Meaning

Thursday, January 21st, 2010

Moon Tattoo Meanings

Moon Tattoo Meanings

Some Moon Tattoo Meanings
at-a-glance:
  • Dreams
  • Intuition
  • Feminine Power
  • Divine Light
  • Shadow
  • Magic
  • Purity
  • Hidden Strength
  • Sensuality
  • Mysticism
  • Cycles
  • Subtle Energy
  • Mystery
  • Influence
  • Eternity
  • Fertility

All life is touched and stimulated by the moon, especially dark life.  Flora and fauna dance in lunar reels, enchanted by the wax and wane of the moon. 

Crazy mushrooms sweat from her silvery touch.  Oceanic mouths open and close in serenade to the lunar phases.  And those of us who are linked-in with hidden powers of the cosmos are prompted to bask in lunar rays for unique illuminations.

To be sure, when discussing moon tattoo meanings, we are diving into esoteric depths, where dreamscapes replace common landscapes and quicksilver visions lace our views.

The moon is a life affirming symbol.  It appears to be constantly changing, and so therefore it reminds us of the consistency of all life.  It is also symbolic of the cyclical nature of time – even karma.  Life moves in non-linear terms, and we all know karma is a big circle (what comes around goes around).  The moon in her phases reminds us of this kind of infinite process of recycling and regeneration.

Moon tattoos may hold a powerful appeal to women as we are inevitably tied to her cycles with our own.  Further, the moon is symbolic of feminine power and fertility.  Countless goddesses in myth are featured with the silvery moon to convey hidden power, secret wisdom and subtle influences. 

There are women who are capable of outwardly reflecting their inner pools of light and energy.  You know who you are.  Those of us who have easy access to these internal energy sources can intimately relate to the magnetism of the moon.  I think it’s the undercurrent of infinite potential that electrifies those of us who are plugged into lunar energy.  For those of you, a moon tattoo might be the ink that flips your spiritual switches.

Of course, men feel lunar luminescence too!  And, although the moon mostly resonates with feminine archetypal identification, there are very male associations too.   Off the top of my head I can think of some Native American tribes, Japanese, the Maori, African too – these ancient cultures prescribe male gender to the moon.  Also, the moon was (still is) a pivotal influence in hunting cultures and in these realms we see male deities – lunar gods.  In these scenarios the moon is consulted for optimal hunting and agricultural excellence.  All sources of provision which is a strong yang calling.

Here are a few snippets of lunar goodness from around the world:

Alchemical:  The moon coincides with the qualities of silver - a purifying, clarifying energy.  Reflective.  Strong, yet malleable.  It’s the “Lesser Work” in the evolutional scale of human development.  When joined with the sun (gold), the twain hold hands in a cosmic balance – the Greater Work of the balanced soul commences.

Archetypal:  The moon is the “Queen of Heaven”…goddess, mother, lover, priestess.  That’s some powerful archetypal energy and if these grand myths run through your lunar bloodlines, a moon tattoo might be the perfect conveyance.

Taoism: The moon is yin, and referred to as the “eye that shines through the darkness” – this is symbolic of illumined vision of a spiritual/enlightened nature.

Egyptian:  The moon is often linked to Isis, also known as the Queen of the Heavens – a cosmic creatrix. 

Native American: Depending which tribe you’re consulting, there are legends of the Great Woman (or Old Woman) beaming in the moon, she is eternal, and ever-watching over her children (all of creation) with objective knowing. 

Totemic:  The moon calls to many animals (including humans), and you might find moon tattoo inspiration from her many suitors in the animal kingdom.  Any critter with horns will be associated with the moon, like bulls - it’s the crescent horns they are reminiscent of the crescent moon – also symbolic of cycles, fertility.  Most nocturnal creatures are lunar affiliated too.  Rabbits, toads, cats….all great partners to moon energies.

I’ve written loads more on lunar symbolism. 

Check it:

Symbolic Moon Facts  (includes more about animals & dieties associated with the moon).

Native American Moon Sign

Native American Full Moon Meanings

Astrological Moon Sign Personality Types

The Moon Shining in the Tarot

Posted in Alchemy Tattoos, Astrological Tattoos, Celestial Tattoos, Egyptian Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Indigenous Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Native American Tattoos, Oriental Tattoos, Personal Observations, Planet Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos, Uncategorized | 1 Response »
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Sun Tattoo Meanings

Tuesday, January 19th, 2010

Sun Tattoo Meanings

Sun Tattoo Meanings

Sun Tattoo Meanings
at-a-glance:

  • Energy
  • Warmth
  • Vitality
  • Unification
  • Radiance
  • Spirit
  • Power
  • Focus
  • Abundance
  • Rejuvenation
  • Growth
  • Radiance
  • Illumination
  • Enlightenment
  • Glory
  • Strength
  • Divinity
  • Masculinity
  • Dominance
  • Wealth
  • Seasons/Time/Cycles
  • God

The sun is a provisioner of life.  Think about it, centuries before the advent of electricity, the sun predicted human cycles of life, availability of food, and therefore was a symbol of general well-being.

It still serves these purposes for the less technologically inclined cultures, and certainly this sense of well-being has not changed in the plant and animal king/queendoms.

In this line of thought, the sun is symbolic of productivity, vitality, energy and the ability to sustain vibrancy.  Are you a natural cheerleader?  Do you easily energize others? Are you able to project your passion as brightly as the sun and inspire others along the way?  If so, a sun tattoo might be a great way to convey these gifts.

The sun is the male (yang) counterpart to feminine moon.  It has a dynamic brilliance that is undeniable.  In generalized symbolic terms the sun represents an outgoing, radiant behavior.

Are you a leader?  Do you provide for your tribe or clan?  Are you always buoying, supporting and shining a light of clarity out for others to see?  If so, a sun tattoo may really resonate with you.

In early cultures, and even in certain spectrums of worship today, the sun is a representative of the divine.  In its male form, it was known as a god with very dominating, commanding, forceful influences. 

As a spiritual symbol, the sun is symbolic of consistency on our spiritual walk.  It also reminds us of our ability to radiate with the power of essential, spiritual beatitudes (truth, love, patience, compassion, etc).  The sun is also an icon of illumination and enlightenment in spiritual symbolism.  Is your spiritual evolution a primary focus in your life right now?  These sun tattoo meanings may brighten your objectives in a permanent way.

The sun has a very dynamic, vibrant personality and so those of you who lean to the sun tattoo may mimic this kind of active, energetic behavior.  If you were born under the sun signs of Aries, Leo and Sagittarius you may also gravitate to sun tattoos as these astrological signs are associated with the element of fire. 

For thousands of years the sun has featured prominently in the human consciousness.  This makes it “numero uno” in symbolism and so attributions of unification, solidarity, centering and singular view play a big part in sun tattoo meanings.  The sun sits in a throne in the center of our solar system – this makes it a prime focal point.  If you have something in your life that is central, perhaps a sun tattoo can convey this importance. 

In all cases, we all revolve around the sun, so its symbolism is going to be gargantuan and blindingly spectacular.

If you need more information on sun symbolism, like how various cultures viewed the sun as a symbol of life, strength and power…check out my other pages on the sun:

Sun Symbolism

Fire Symbolism

Native American Sun Symbols

Sun Animal Totems

Sun Yantras

Sun Symbolism in the Tarot

Posted in Alchemy Tattoos, Astrological Tattoos, Celestial Tattoos, Christian Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Indigenous Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Native American Tattoos, Personal Observations, Planet Tattoos, Religious Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | 1 Response »
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Aztec Tattoo of Creation

Friday, October 9th, 2009

Aztec Tattoo of Creation

Aztec Tattoo of Creation

This Aztec tattoo stylized Aztec spiral symbol.  Each medallion in this Aztec symbol represents:

  • Creation
  • Vitality
  • Life
  • Astrology (cosmos)
  • Order

Each of the spiral medallions also represent a seed of the Universe and also symbolizes a unique phase of life:

  • Birth
  • Childhood
  • Adulthood
  • Death
  • Afterlife

This Aztec symbol is associated with the legend of Huitzilopochtil who created the moon by tossing his sister into the skies, the sun was made the same way as Huitzilopochtil hurled his brother into the skies.  The earth was made when Huitzilopochtil danced a spiral dance with his brother and sister (now the sun and the moon).  The seas were made by Huitzilopochtil’s sweat from the spiral dance.

These spiraling seeds of life are all moving together in perfect harmony – just as all the stars and planets are moving in gravitational orbit with perfection.  The Aztecs understood human life works in the same kind of rhythmic pattern, and this Aztec tattoo deftly depicts the flowing nature of life in all its perfection.

Another form of the Aztec legend states that in the beginning, there was an expansive void from which Ometeotl, the first Aztec god(dess) created himself.  Ometeotl was androgynous: both male and female, light and dark, good and evil (Ometeotl is represented by the center spiral seed in the Aztec tattoo symbol shown above).  Ometeotle birthed four children, who were deities and they were called the four Tezcatlipocas.  These four gods are represented in the four surrounding “spiral seeds” (medallions in the symbol) and are known as:

  • Quetzalcoatl: God of light, wind, mercy and rules the southern directions
  • Huitzilopochtli: God of energy, war, vitality, strategy and rules west directions
  • Xipe Totec: God of agriculture, spring, renewal, gold and rules the north
  • Tezcatlipoca: God of discernment, night, secrets, magic and rules the east

These four deities and their maker, Ometeotle, were considered responsible for all life and order as it is known today.  Hence, this is a powerful symbol of life; a powerful Aztec tattoo conveying cosmic order and harmony between all the elements.

Other pages of interest for your tattoo research:

Moon Symbolism

Sun Symbolism

Native American Symbolism

Mayan Symbolism

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Hunab Ku Tattoo Symbolism

Friday, October 9th, 2009

Hunab Ku Tattoo Symbolism

Hunab Ku Tattoo Symbolism

If you’re considering getting a Hunab Ku tattoo, here are some thoughts about the origin and symbolism of this mark.

The Hunab Ku is beleived to be ancient Mayan symbol which is a center feature in their sacred wheels of time or calendar systems.  There are also theories the symbol may belong to the ancient Aztecs.  The symbol is a vital cornerstone into understanding the cycles of life (and also the core feature to understanding Mayan myths).

The symbol Hunab Ku literally translates to mean: “One Giver of Movement and Measure” or “The One Source of Energy.”   With this kind of powerful concentration of energy, the Hunab Ku is also a symbolic representation of god; the one god, or the high god among the Mayans (although this observation hasn’t been proven, and you should read the “note” section at the end of this post).

And so, the Hunab Ku tattoo, can eloquently represent:

  • the movement of life energy
  • the cycle of life on a grander scale
  • the order and balance of the cosmos
  • the god force or infinite power available in all life

According to Mayan scholar Jose Arguelles, the Hunab Ku is the principle of life beyond the cosmos.  He says “It may be described as possessing a simultaneous spin and counter-spin motion radiating outward from a center-point of indescribable energy that pulses at a specific rate.  That pulse is the principle of life and all-pervading consciousness imminent in all phenomenon.”

Visually, we can see this symbol depicts the ancient tenet of balance in all things.  It’s even reminiscent of the classic yin yang symbol found in Asian symbology.  We see an equal balance of light and dark in the Hunab ku tattoo.  Ergo, this carries deep symbolism of finding a balance.  Balance in polarities like:

  • shadow self and light self
  • happy and sad
  • mother and father
  • night and day
  • right and left
  • sun and moon

Note: As with all ancient symbols, origins and traditional meanings can get fuzzy over time.  It’s important to know this symbol (illustrated above) is likely a modernization, and probably doesn’t look exactly as it did in ancient Mesoamerica. 

Furthermore, there is very little agreement about the actual meaning of the Hunab Ku.  My thoughts on the the Hunab Ku concept are based on  my observations of the indigenous culture and my impressions about the symbol.  With a little research, you’ll find varying ideas about Hunab Ku.  

At the end of the day, all you can rely on is what your heart and soul tells you about this piece.  Personally, I think that’s how our ancient Mayan and Aztec ancestors would want it.

Other pages of interest:

Mayan Symbols

Yin Yang Symbols

Native American Symbols

Spiral Symbolism

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Bull Tattoo Symbolism

Monday, August 31st, 2009

Bull Tattoo Symbolism

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

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Lion Tattoo Symbolism

Saturday, April 25th, 2009

Lion Tattoo Symbolism

Lion Tattoo Symbolism

Lion Tattoo Symbolism at-a-glance:

  • Strength
  • Courage
  • Purity
  • Honesty
  • Loyalty
  • Protection
  • Nobility
  • Integrity
  • Power
  • Authority
  • Bravery

Lions are solar animals, which mean their tattoos will signify sun-like qualities such as:

  • Brilliance
  • Vitality
  • Life
  • Expansion
  • Dominion

In Egypt, two lions shown together (back to back) symbolize East meeting West; sunrise and sunset.  It’s a cyclical theme that reminds us of the waxing and waning nature of all life.

Also in Egypt as well as Babylonia, Assyria, China and Japan grand statues of lions were erected in front of temples and sacred places.  This is an attribute of the lion’s protective qualities.  In expressive art of all kinds, including  lion tattoo symbolism there is a theme of guardianship.

Lion Tattoo Symbolism in Greco-Roman Myth:  Lion’s are associated with love…a virile, masculine, strong libido kind of love and are connected to amorous deities such as Cybele, Aphrodite/Venus and Dionysus/Bacchus.

Lion Tattoo Meaning in Christinanity: The lion is a symbol of God for it’s regal stature, and lends a visual icon to the concept of power and justice.  Aslan in the Chronicles of Narnia stands a spiritual godhead.  In the symbol and seal known as the “Lion of Judah” attributed to the Israelite tribe of Judah the lion is symbolic of Christ.

Lion Tattoo Symbolism in Buddhism: Buddha and Krishna both are likened to the lion for their radiating energies, golden auras, and their security/wisdom/knowledge on a higher spritual level.

Lion Tattoos in Astrology: The lion is the zodiac (animal) representing the sign of Leo in astrology.  It is ruled by the sun (more solar animal symbolism applies here).  It’s the fifth sign of the zodiac which lends an adventuresome, high-spritited energy.   Intelligent, shrewd, exuberant and savvy in the ways of balance/justice, natural leaders are born under the sign of Leo.

Lion Tattoo Symbolism in Alchemy: The red lion is symbolic of sulphur which is the masculine principle and all it’s assertive qualities.  A green lion in alchemy represents the beginning of alchemical work, as well as feminine qualities (lunar too).  Two lions tattooed together in an alchemical light can represent the harmonic relationship between male and female.  Two lion tattoos may also represent the dualistic nature of Mercury (symbolic of quicksilver and the unification of opposites).

Lion Tattoo in Chinese Symbolism: Protection, guardian, luck, strength and expediency of power.  Depicted with an orb, the lion is symbolic of the celestial relationships between earth and sun and the interplay between the duality of life and nature. Tattooed with certain flowers, the lion symbolizes the balance between fragility and strength as well as the recognition of feminine wisdom.

If you need more information on lion tattoo symbolism, check out these wicked-awesome sources:

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