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Monday, April 5th, 2010
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 »
Tags: consumption, desire, energy, heat, passion, power, sensuality, sexuality, strength, transformation, vitality
Tuesday, January 26th, 2010
Om Tattoo Symbolism
Om tattoo symbolism
at-a-glance:
- Totality
- Sustaining
- Perpetuation
- Threefold/Trinity
- Sacred
- Divine Expression
- Indestructible word (truth)
- Creation
- Evolution
- Manifestation
It’s amazing how a whole procession of meanings can tumble out of one little symbol. The om symbol (a.k.a.: ohm, aum, omkar) is one such symbol – proof that BIG symbolism often comes in tiny packages.
Getting an om tattoo will convey an understanding of very primitive, ancient universal principles. This symbol is actually a conveyance of sound – the sound of life. Emitting the aaaaaauuuuuummmm sound from the vocal chords, is mimicking the harmonic tone of all creation.
There are theories that the core of existence vibrates at a set-point. From an abyss of nothingness there is uttered a divine call. It is as if the cosmic mouth opens and presses out a sweet song of creation across the void.
So, we can see how this one symbol packs a lot of power. The song of creation is nestled in the sound of “om” actually, there are three sacred vocalizations “ah” “uh” and “hmmm” – each slight nuance is made through the movement of the mouth & the focus of high intent.
This three-part verbal expression of the om is symbolic of so much. The advent and culmination of triangular principles like:
- dawn, afternoon, dusk
- creation, sustaining, destruction
- conscious, unconscious, subconscious
Vastly powerful concepts all rolling around in verbal expression, tied to this sacred symbol. The om is expressed most commonly in Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism.
To be sure, the om tattoo symbolism conveys a reverence for life, an honor for creation and an understanding of the divine motion of the Universe.
Getting an omkar tattoo will galvanize these really heady concepts. Permanent, ritualistic ink of this symbol is an appropriate conveyance of sacred awareness – timeless awareness – affinity for unifying forces scintillating within the core of natural progression.
Am I being over-dramatic about this om tattoo symbolism? Maybe. But to me, this symbol (and every symbol we boldly brand upon our bodies) is a very, very big deal.
If we are going to ink it, we had better have an understanding as permanent and deep as our ink is.
Don’t stop here with your research. Keep exploring this magnificent Check out the Wiki on om symbolism here. I think you’ll like what you read there.
Posted in Celestial Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Indigenous Tattoos, Personal Observations, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos, Uncategorized | 1 Response »
Tags: ancient, communication, creation, creativity, divine, divinity, expression, harmony, honor, life, manifestation, motion, perpetual, power, reverence, sacred, sound, sustaining, totality, unification, union, universe, voice
Thursday, January 21st, 2010
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 »
Tags: cycles, divine, divinity, dreaming, dreams, energy, enternity, faith, feminine, fertility, goddess, illumination, infinite, initiation, insight, intuition, magic, mystery, mysticism, nature, passion, psychic, purity, sensuality, shadow, strength
Tuesday, January 19th, 2010
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 »
Tags: clarity, confidence, divinity, enlightenment, faith, glory, god, growth, health, illumination, independence, insight, inspiration, leadership, life, luck, masculinity, power, radiance, spirit, spiritual, spirituality, strength, unification, vibrance, vitality, wealth, wisdom
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
Friday, October 9th, 2009
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
Posted in Astrological Tattoos, Celestial Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Indigenous Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Native American Tattoos, Personal Observations, Planet Tattoos, Religious Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: afterlife, astrology, awareness, balance, birth, cosmic, cosmos, creation, creativity, death, energy, faith, force, god, harmony, humanity, life, longevity, order, perfection, power, universe, vitality, wisdom
Friday, October 9th, 2009
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
Posted in Astrological Tattoos, Celestial Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Indigenous Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Native American Tattoos, Personal Observations, Planet Tattoos, Religious Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: awareness, balance, consciousness, cosmos, energy, enlightenment, faith, force, god, illumination, life, movement, polarity, power, sacred, spiritual, time, vitality
Friday, August 28th, 2009
Shark Tattoo Meaning
Shark Tattoo Meaning
(at-a-glance):
- Power
- Assertiveness
- Instinct
- Focus
- Authority
- Effectiveness
- Calculated
- Confident
- Protection
- Graceful
- Strength
- Fearlessness
- Energy
- Knowing
- Self-assurance
- Survivor
Shark tattoo meaning deals with the indomitable spirit of the shark. These creatures are built for survival, (they haven’t evolved much in over 400 million years!). As such they are perfect for people who want a tattoo to signify they are survivors. Symbolically, this speaks to our human hearts, and tells us:
a) We are born perfectly designed (how can you improve perfection?).
b) Whatever life throws at us, we will survive.
To the Maori, the mako shark (mako meaning shark or shark tooth) is a sacred fish because of its status as “king of the waters.” To their natural way of viewing life, the shark is a powerful symbol of victory and superior power to the Maori. I’ve seen a few Maori shark tattoos (shark teeth, specifically) and indeed their bold presence is equally bold in symbolism.
Celtic shark tattoos will capture the symbolism of the scythe because ancient Celts (who were quite sea-savvy) observed the dorsal fin of the shark to look a lot like a sickle or scythe (the crescent blade used to harvest wheat. Also a sacred Druidic tool). As scythes are synonymous with harvesting and also the closing of an agricultural season, the shark to the ancient Celts would speak of respectfully gathering resources while opportunity is available. It also speaks of transition, cycles and acknowledging the passage of one phase of life into another.
Shark tattoos are considered symbols of protection – especially for sailors, pirates and those who travel often (particularly by sea).
Interestingly, the Hindu god Vishnu is sometimes shown leaping out of the mouth of a shark. This can be interpreted several ways. Predominantly it signifies the dominance of Nature; that Nature and her creatures must be respected – never underestimated. This illustration also puts sharks on a divine level, having same status as gods and goddesses. This reinforces shark symbolism of power and authority.
For more soulful insights and other pages of similar symbolism visit:
Shark Symbolism: Living Life Full-On
Water Symbolism: Emotional Intelligence
Water Totems: Swimming with Symbolism
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Celtic Tattoos, Fish Tattoos, Indigenous Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: authority, confidence, courage, determination, drive, energy, excellence, fearlessness, focus, instinct, intelligence, knowing, power, strength, survivor
Tuesday, August 4th, 2009
Feather Tattoos and Feather Symbolism
Feather Tattoo Symbolism
(at-a-glance):
- Higher mind
- Freedom
- Ascended thoughts
- Enlightenment
- Honor
- Soul’s journey
- Dreams
- Inspiration
- Levitation
- High spirit
- Uplifting
- Hope
- Promise
- Faith
- Weightless
- Purity
- Truth
- Magic
- Spiritual messages
- Flying high
- Limitlessness
- Transformation
- Rejuvenation
- Free spirit
- Travel
- High class or status
Feather tattoos are often seen featured in Native American themed ink, and in this context the symbolism deals with approaching nature and the power of birds with honor. Native Americans used feathers in ritual because they knew the spirit of the bird was represented by the feather. Bird spirits are extremely powerful in purifying the spirit and cleansing the energetic environment. Waving a feather over a sacred fire with pure intent is a way of uplifting the soul and expressing gratitude to bird spirits.
Feathers in Native American minds as well as many other cultures deals with communication. Feathers are often viewed as messages from the spirit world, and feather tattoos will convey powerful ideals about holy exchange. Indeed, many schools of thought believe seeing feathers on our path is a direct message from a loved one who has transitioned into the spirit side of life (deceased).
In Celtic symbolism and myth, Morrigan wore an intricate cloak of feathers (typically raven feathers) as a means to transform into a bird. Legend indicates her ability to shift into bird form allowed her higher reasoning, and a “bird’s eye view” into spiritual realms. In this form she could also easily travel the earth and spy about on people of interest to her motives.
If Egyptology is your thing, then a feather tattoo might symbolize the wisdom of the goddess Maat who is a matriarchal figure of truth and justice. During mummification, Anubis and Maat compared the weight of heart against the weight of the feather to determine the purity of the soul (and eligibility for the entrance into the Afterlife without consequence). If the heart was light as a feather, the soul was deemed pure and the spirit could move freely into further evolution.
As mentioned, Native American wisdom understands the feather to be an embodiment of bird spirit. Eagle feathers had special meaning and were given to warriors as a tremendous honor of bravery and courage. It indicated a nobility of the heart and allowed the recipient to take flight easily on spirit journeying.
In this way, feathers are also status symbols in many cultures. Plumed knights, feathered headdresses, feathered cloaks – these are all symbolic of higher class of people – usually for the brave hearted, or the spiritual master.
A more expanded view of feather tattoos deal with thought, intellect and the higher mind. This is because feathers (birds) are associated with air, the skies, and the heavens. This also forms a logical connection with dreams, inspiration, spiritual ascension and higher intelligence.
If you need more information on this subject, check out these pages:
Symbolic Meaning of Feathers (full article)
Bird Totems and Meanings
Nature Symbolism
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Bird Tattoos, Celtic Tattoos, Egyptian Tattoos, Indigenous Tattoos, Native American Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos, Uncategorized | No Responses »
Tags: dreams, enlightenment, faith, freedom, honor, hope, inspiration, justice, magic, promise, purity, renewal, spirit, spirituality, truth
