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Friday, February 26th, 2010
Anchor Tattoo Meaning
Anchor Tattoo Meaning
at-a-glance:
- Hope
- Safety
- Fidelity
- Stability
- Security
- Salvation
- Good Luck
- Steadfastness
- Ocean/Sea/Waters
Tons of seafaring mateys and pirates alike have adopted the anchor as a symbol of their love for the open waters.
For example, an anchor tattoo is a common sight among US military branches specializing in sea duty (Navy, Coast Guard, Marines). It identifies a man (or woman) with the sea, as well as a branch of military – and therefore labels him/her with a code of protection, honor, duty and devotion to a greater cause.
Anchor tattoos were common among pirates to denote a permanent connection with the sea. I’ve heard rumor that anchor pirate tattoos were a way to convey lots of time in the brig too. This makes sense as the anchor is symbolic of “being parked” – a time encarcerated would be synonymous.
I’ve also been told an anchor tattoo is symbolic of a sailor having crossed the Atlantic Ocean.
But you don’t have to be in the Navy to be attracted to the anchor tattoo meaning. A love for boating, the call of the waters/oceans or perhaps a memorial to someone who held a deep affection for the seas could justify an anchor tattoo.
There are varying designs of anchors, and the design of your anchor tattoo will tell a lot about your inky intentions. I’ve seen some anchor tattoos honor the dance between male and female duality & harmony. In this case, the crescent is symbolic of female (yin) – and the vertical rod is symbolic of male (yang) energy.
Ancient Egyptian art shows gender in the anchor too. An anchor drawing/etching designed with a skiff or a boat as the lower half of the anchor represented ”female” (the curve of woman, the crescent of moon). And, a snake composed the upper half of the anchor-art, as the erect vertical mast – this is the male factor (phallus). Together, these two design compositions symbolize creation.
In Renaissance art, anchors are often depicted with the dolphin. This is symbolic of tempering speed with resistance. In this image, the dolphin is symbolic of speed and carefree direction, while the anchor is a symbol of remaining grounded and stable. Combined, these two symbols encourage a balance between quick action and sound judgment.
In Freemason art and symbolism the anchor is sometimes replaced with Jacob’s ladder. In this case, the anchor tattoo meaning represents attainment and ascension. We’re talking about a theological climb starting from base/mundane understanding to enlightened realization.
I’ve also seen anchors with a pitchfork look to them – these might be an artistic tribute to various sea deities. Here are a few awesome sea gods and goddesses to consider incorporating into your anchor tattoo design:
- Neptune – Roman sea god (doppelganger of Poseidon), storm-maker and earth-shaker
- Amphitrite – Greek sea goddess (and nymph), protects sailors and gives birth to dolphins (and you thought yourkid was funny lookin!)
- Poseidon – Temperamental Greek sea god, rebel with a pitchfork and a cause to protect all inhabitants of the sea
- Triton – Greek sea deity who is half-man, half-fish. A blow of his conch, waters can be calm or tempestuous
- Rán – Old Norse sea goddess, her appearance is marked by her tugging on anchors – an omen of bad weather and/or tumultuous seas
- Varuna – Hindu god of the oceans with the power to make noble humans immortals. Those who died at sea were assigned into his care
Anchor tattoo meaning also has ties in Christian symbolism. Most anchors have a top-bar that looks like a cross, and therefore hearkens to the traditional Christian theme of salvation and sacrifice. This was particularly useful during dicey times when abiding by Christian faith was risky business. In these times, an anchor was used as a symbol instead of the cross to identify oneself as a Christian in a secretive way.
As an anchor is dropped in order to gain stability on troubled waters – this is synonymous with an anchored faith. Hebrews 6:19 touts: “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” in reference to the consistency of Gods unwavering presence in the hearts of men.
If you are a military seaman (or woman), a pirate-at-heart, or have an endless love of the sea - an anchor might be ideal for your next tattoo. And even if the seas don’t really raise your sails, maybe an anchor tattoo might be symbolic of stability, hope, faith and security for you. Whatever the case, it’s up to you to explore your personal feelings about an anchor tattoo meaning before committing it to ink.
Other symbolic suggestions that might float your boat:
Dolphin Tattoo Meaning
Dolphin Symbolism (general)
Mermaid Tattoo Meaning
Water Symbolism
Cross Symbolism (Celtic)
Shark Tattoo Meaning
Good Luck Symbols
Water Animal Totems
Posted in Christian Tattoos, Egyptian Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Military Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Occupational Tattoos, Personal Observations, Prison Tattoos, Religious Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos, Uncategorized | No Responses »
Tags: faith, faithful, fidelity, good luck, grounded, hope, luck, military, navigation, oceans, protection, sacrifice, safety, salvation, seas, security, stability, travel, water, will
Wednesday, February 17th, 2010
Skull Tattoo Meaning
Skull tattoo meaning and symbolism
at-a-glance:
- Mortality
- Protection
- Intimidation
- Death
- Intellect
- Warning
- Impermanence
- Big juju
Other than looking incredibly bad-ass, skull tattoo meaning can be powerfully profound to the wearer. I personally love skull tattoos, and if I didn’t already have a bonzer theme going, I’d likely be skulled up with the best of them.
If you already have gobs of skull tattoos (like potato chips or cookies, you can’t have just one skull tattoo), or if you are thinking about getting your first, I have some symbolic suggestions for your creative contemplation.
Skulls (and therefore skull tattoos) are very big juju in aboriginal tribes (I’m talking African, Australian, and even Native American). Skulls of the dead were retained and placed prominently at entryways. This warded off “evil spirits” but mostly (effectively) kept unwelcome guests at bay. This is also a tactic of many other ancient tribal communities. It’s a clever protection method, really. Honestly, wicked-grinning skulls instead of “welcome” mats at the front door is a pretty clear message. What better way to say “go away.” This might be the message you want to convey with your skull tattoos. If you’re an anti-social type, a skull tattoo might be the perfect way to say “buzz off bozo.”
Skulls have also been used as tools of intimidation in history. Ruthless dictators and rulers collected skulls and strung them out as trophies – much in the same way a buck’s head is mounted on a hunters wall. In this way, dominance is shown. Skulls might also be used to adorn a conquered village. A flag or some other makers mark would be left with the skull garland at the scenes of war crimes. This is a way to put a signature on the gruesome handiwork of raping and pillaging. Lord Dracul was notorious for this; strewing skulls along villages he’d plundered as a calling card. A way to say “been here, took everything, and leaving the skulls to prove it.” If you dig Dracul’s vibe, and intimidation is your game – a skull tattoo might be your thing.
Now, I’m a deeply spiritual geek. This makes me ponder silver linings and philosophical implications in most things – including skulls. If you’re like me, maybe you’re looking for a softer side of skull tattoo meaning.
If so, consider the ancient Celts, who viewed the skull as symbolic of the anima, or the spark of life. Specifically, the Celts knew the skull was the seat of the soul. It housed the power-horse of human motivation; the mind. Celts were crazy about trinities, the two eyes and nose form a unique triangle in the skull – something the Celts considered to be symbolic of creation, cycles and the power inherent in life. I’ve written a whole page on Celtic skull meaning here, check it out. Pretty fascinating stuff.
Other philosophical fodder of the skull pops up in the Renaissance. In this era, artists included skull imagery to convey a sense of impermanence as well as the folly of vanity. Skulls in the Renaissance were symbolic of earthly things, greed and superficiality. They were also a reminder of the temporary nature of earthly life. “Everybody dies” is the theme here.
In alchemical symbolism the skull is considered the throne of higher intelligence. It is symbolic of consciousness, rationality and prudence. The skull is a elite icon distinguishing man from beast.
The skull is the last bone in the human body that surrenders to decay. In other words, it sticks around the longest. This is symbolic of the lasting legacy of human ingenuity. These kinds of symbolic themes are also seen in paganism and occult theological groups of the day.
These are just a few ideas as you contemplate your skull tattoos or embark on getting your very first skull tattoo.
Don’t miss my other page on Celtic Skull Meanings here.
Or my post on Skull and Snake Symbolism in Mexican Myth here.
Or maybe you might dig my skull thoughts on my Death Card Meaning in the Tarot here.
Posted in Alchemy Tattoos, Celtic Tattoos, Military Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Native American Tattoos, Personal Observations, Prison Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: creation, death, fear, fearlessness, impermanence, intellect, intimidation, magic, mentality, mind, mortality, occult, power, protection, soul, spirit, spirituality, warning
Friday, January 15th, 2010
Meaning of Knife Tattoos
Knife tattoos, they could convey a million reasons to the owner…from devotion to military obligation to expressing the sharp edge of betrayal.
Here are some at-a-glance symbolic suggestions pertaining to knife tattoos:
- Authority
- Skill
- Revenge
- Betrayal
- Solitude
- Sacrifice
- Military duty/service
- Strategy
- Sharp Intellect
- Steely Resolve
- Flawless Clarity
- Singularity in Focus
- Duality
- Pain
- Ritual
- Accomplishment
- Freedom
Most of my friends with knife tattoos tell me they got them when they were young. These tattoos often signify a lost love, and the knife conveys a cold, steely pain encountered with having been cut by the brutality of a lovers neglect or betrayal. In this scenario, we could also say a tattooed knife could symbolize a “cutting away” from a bad relationship – slicing through the trauma & difficulties caused by a lover and becoming liberated from the drama of a dysfunctional relationship.
Many times a knife tattoo can express a feeling of sacrifice. This conveyance is ancient, and deeply rooted in many religious/spiritual sects in which sacrifices have been (and still are in some cases) practiced for eons. Do you find yourself in a position of intense sacrifice? Do you hold to a singular devotion, faith or purpose that you would die for? An ornate, glistening knife tattoo might be something to consider to outwardly express that kind of intensity.
Interestingly, in Buddhist symbology the knife often represents cutting the ties of material gain. Are you vehemently against consumerism? Do you find materialism is the bane of your existence, holding you back from true freedom and enlightenment? In this sense, a knife may be an appropriate way to galvanize the act of liberating oneself from the binding ties of materialistic urge and greed.
When I think of knives, and knife tattoos, I think of the suit of swords in the Tarot. This esoteric suit represents challenges, usually wrought from mental nuances like doubt, fear, worry. In a cavalcade of (often tormented) archetypes in these cards, we see a constant struggle to slice through confusion. The knife in these cards symbolizes the double-edged nature of the mind.
The mind can be a remarkable representative of clarity and can expertly slice through befuddlement. Simultaneously, the mind can be a true enemy, turning and stabbing its owner in the back. I suspect a larger indwelling presence is designed to navigate the strokes of a knife. But, until we can all commune with that presence, a knife might be an apropos tattoo to express that dual nature of the mind – both helpful and potentially cruel.
I love knives, and used to collect them – I never really knew why – they just gravitated to my curiosity. Much later, I invested some time in understanding why blades appealed to me. It’s their cleanliness, the shine, their ability to carve through metaphorical crap. So utilitarian, yet so beautiful and elegant too. A magnificent, multi-purpose tool – that, when well-crafted could also be a work of art.
So you see, the knife, as with any tattoo – is most profound when we assign our own understanding to it.
I hope you have enjoyed these thoughts on the symbolic meaning of knife tattoos. Take some time to consider what the knife represents to you.
Because of my odd enchantment with blades, I’ve written more about the symbolism of them. Check it out: Symbolic Meaning of Swords on my other website.
Posted in Military Tattoos, Personal Observations, Prison Tattoos, Religious Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos, Uncategorized | No Responses »
Tags: authority, betrayal, clarity, devotion, duality, enlightenment, faith, freedom, integrity, intelligence, liberation, lovelorn, mentality, military, pain, revenge, ritual, sacrifice, skill, solitude, spirituality, strength
Tuesday, August 18th, 2009
Chain Tattoo Meaning
Chain Tattoo Meaning
(at-a-glance):
- Confinement
- Oppression
- Enslavement
- Imprisonment
- Limitation
- Bondage
- Brotherhood
- Remembrance
- Communication
- Duty
- Honor
- Sacrifice
- Unity
- Command
- Linked
- Liberation (broken chain)
- Freedom (broken chain)
Chain tattoos are extremely powerful in their meaning because they deal with issues of freedom and bondage. And, any time we talk about freedom we’re talking about human rights which strikes at the core of every human heart beat.
Broken chain tattoos can symbolize liberation from a harrowing/challenging time in life. People who get a tattoo of a broken chain will likely tell you they may have been set free from a terrible burden. The tattoo represents freedom from bondage – or the removal of a heavy weight upon their heart.
Chain tattoos that are NOT broken may convey the feeling of being limited, enslaved, or imprisoned. I have a buddy who is serving life in prison and his chain tattoo meaning represents his life of being shackled with no hope of release. He has 14 links on his chain tattoo. One for each year he has served. He’s told me that getting a new link tattooed to an existing chain tattoo for every year served is a relatively common prison ink ritual.
A chain tattoo may also symbolize honoring a bond of service or duty. It may also convey a feeling of sacrifice. For example, if you have served in the military, you may have felt bound (chained) to a code of honor. There is no choice but to serve your country – but your heart may feel chained because of the pain and sacrifice this duty brings. Chains in a military sense can also symbolize rank and office (ie: chain of command).
On a more uplifting note, chains sometimes symbolize an eternal connection with an ideal or a loved one. A linked chain has been a symbol of marriage because of the immortal connection soul-mates share. In this light, the chain stands for eternal love – especially in marriage.
Homer, the epic poet of ancient Greece (author of the Iliad and the Odyssey) once made a philosophical observation that an ephemeral chain of energetic gold formed a connection between heaven and earth. He said Zeus hung the chain himself as a way to keep the skies connected to the land. Plato called it a “rope of light” that encircled the Universe, holding all the energy in place.
A golden chain shows up in medieval Christian art as a symbol of divine connection – the chain is symbolic of prayer and it links man to God in unbreakable faith/communication. Alternatively, chains also take on an oppressive tone, especially when depicted with demonic or devilish imagery. In this light, chains are symbolic of being defeated by base/materialistic desires.
In ancient Celtic symbolism a chain is shown trailing down from the tongue of the Celtic god Ogmios and it rain to the ears of his followers. This symbolizes the mesmerizing power of Ogmios’ words, and his effectiveness to capture his listeners attention.
In Indian religions like Hinduism and Buddhism, a chain is sometimes used to represent the chain of karma. Karma is the action of life going through its cycles. A teacher once told me our individual actions in each life make up our chain of karma and predicts what kind of life we will experience in the next cycle of life. The term “breaking the chain of karma” refers to changing bad habits (breaking weak links) to liberate oneself from living out undesirable karma in their next life.
Chains can also be a symbol of friendship. More specifically, chains convey a sense of incredible strength and a joining together of a bond that can withstand all tests of time and hardship.
More information on this subject:
Chain Symbolism in Tarot
Posted in Celtic Tattoos, Christian Tattoos, Military Tattoos, Occupational Tattoos, Personal Observations, Prison Tattoos, Religious Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: brotherhood, communication, duty, friendship, honor, human rights, marriage, memorial, military, oppression, prison, remembrance, sacrifice, slavery, strength
Saturday, August 15th, 2009
Iron Cross Tattoo Meaning
Iron cross tattoo meaning
(at-a-glance):
- Heraldry
- Loyalty
- Honor
- Faith
- Courage
- Bravery
- Loyalty
- Will
- Liberation
Often interchanged with the Maltese cross, the iron cross tattoo meaning has its roots with King Friedrich Wilhelm the third of Prussia in the mid 1800s. The King commanded this stylized cross as a symbol of bravery and honorary medals bearing the iron cross were awarded to brave soldiers during the War of Liberation.
Adolph Hitler adopted the iron cross as a medal for his own officers. In fact, it was the only major decoration awarded by the Nazis before the Third Reich.
The iron cross has some rebellious symbolism associated with it, and worn by certain people it conveys a message of nonconformity or – more accurately a “f*ck off” message to “the man” or the “establishment.”
Perhaps its association with Nazi Germany that popularized the iron cross tattoo with more rebellious groups of people who wish to convey this edgy message. Bikers, skinheads and hardcore niches often adorn themselves with the iron (or Maltese) cross to snub noses at conventionalism. In this context the iron cross may also convey a revolt against following the masses. Rather, the cross is a symbol expressing a rage against common thought & to be militant in the pursuit of individual thought/action.
On a lighter note the iron cross tattoo meaning is redeemed when we see it in civic departments to acknowledge bravery on duty. Fire and Police organizations often utilize this cross to show commendable service and incredible bravery on the job. In these instances, the iron cross is a symbol of iron-will required to protect the community.
See also:
Maltese Cross Tattoo Meaning
Celtic Cross Meaning
Posted in Christian Tattoos, Military Tattoos, Occupational Tattoos, Religious Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | 2 Responses »
Tags: bravery, courage, faith, honor, liberation, loyalty, nonconformity, power, protection, recognition, strength, will
Saturday, August 15th, 2009
Maltese Cross Tattoo Meaning
Maltese Cross Tattoo Meaning:
Each point of the Maltese cross is said to have meaning. Traditional Christianity claims each point represents the Eight Blessingsof Christ (or the beatitudes):
- Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
- Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.
- Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land.
- Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.
- Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
- Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God.
- Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
- Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
The Maltese cross tattoo meaning also deals with courage and bravery as it was worn by mighty knights from Malta who used this cross as their military insignia – a badge to represent strength in their faith and their commitment.
The Knights of Malta, a military religious order from the isle of Malta, withstood and overcame insurmountable odds is battle. Consequently, the Maltese cross tattoo meaning has become synonymous with virtue, honor and bravery. So much so, this cross has been adopted by many civic organizations. For example, the Maltese cross is often worn by firefighters to represent their indomitable spirit and courage in aiding their fellow man.
As a symbol of high integrity, it is said the eight points on the Maltese cross (oft confused with the iron cross) also represent the following attributes (which correspond with the ancient Knights of Malta creed):
- Respect
- Holy devotion
- Compassion
- Bravery
- Honor
- Fearlessness
- Humanitarianism
- Loyalty
The knightly order of Malta was formed under the supervision of eight European states, and so each point of the Maltese cross is also said to represent these governing states:
- Aragon
- England
- Italy
- Germany
- Auvergne
- France
- Provence
- Castile
See also:
Iron Cross Tattoo Meaning
Celtic Cross Meaning
Posted in Christian Tattoos, Military Tattoos, Occupational Tattoos, Religious Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | 1 Response »
Tags: bravery, compassion, courage, devotion, faith, fearlessness, honor, integrity, loyalty, military, respect, servitude, strength, virtue
Tuesday, May 12th, 2009
Peacock Tattoo Meanings
Peacock tattoo meanings
(at-a-glance):
- Royalty
- Vitality
- Sensuality
- Luxury
- Expansiveness
- Pride
- Nobility
- Generosity
- Immortality
- Longevity
- Love
- Watchfulness
- Sexuality
- Compassion
- Desire
- Beauty
Peacock tattoo meanings commonly deal with the impressively expansive fanning out of the male peacock’s tail feathers. The radiant blue of his body is equally impressive for tattooing.
These striking features make a big statement about the wearer of peacock tattoos.
It says: “I am marvelously unique, and not afraid to show it!”
Themes of nobility and royalty come into play from Chinese symbolism in which the peacock is an emblem of rank and high status. Indeed, peacock feathers were given to recognize impeccable service and honorable rank in positions of military office.
The peacock is a symbol of expansive consciousness in Buddhism. In this light, the bird is a representative of the all-compassionate goddess Kuan-Yin. The “eyes” in the peacock feathers are symbolic of the watchfulness concept - the Watcher in consciousness/meditative terms is the omniscient essence of the soul.
The concept of watching also comes into play in Christian symbolism the “eyes” of peacock tail-feathers represent the eyes of the church/Christ/God watching over the faithful. Esoteric Christianity also views the peacock as an emblem of immortality and resurrection (similar to phoenix symbolism).
In Greek and Roman mythology the peacock is the companion of Hera and Juno (respectively). In this light, peacock tattoo meanings may represent a regal status too, as its symbolic imagery points to the realm of the Empress and High Priestess.
The peacock is also a solar animal and so its character will convey attitudes like: Vitality, radiance, glory, stimulation, life, health, invigoration.
Check out these other pages for more information:
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Bird Tattoos, Christian Tattoos, Military Tattoos, Oriental Tattoos, Religious Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | 3 Responses »
Tags: awareness, beauty, desire, generosity, honor, immortality, love, nobility, passion, proud, royalty, sensuality, sexuality
Thursday, April 30th, 2009
Eagle Tattoo Meanings
Eagle Tattoo Meanings
(at-a-glance):
- Authority
- Nobility
- Intelligence
- Purity
- Ascension
- Victory
- Strength
- Messenger
- Power
- Force
- Focus
- Drive
- Determination
- Endurance
- Faith
- Resurrection
- Sovereignty
- Vitality
- Expansion
- Limitlessness
- Fearlessness
- Purity
- Willpower
- Clarity
The symbolic theme of power is pervasive with eagles, as with eagle tattoo meanings. In almost every culture and philosophy the eagle is a magnificent creature of purity, beauty and powerful force.
Some Native American Indian tribes of North American viewed the eagle as the Thunderbird, and deemed it a messenger of the heavens. Soaring the skies, it would settle in trees and the ground to deliver important messages to mankind from the spirits of the winds and skies.
In reality, eagles are master of air – and their vision is remarkably accurate. This is symbolic of having clear vision ourselves. If you are determined to a commitment of clear focus, spiritual clarity or personal transparency – the eagle tattoo is a proper choice.
Eagles are considered solar animals by countless cultures, so their symbolism will be connected to: Vitality, life, health, energy and provision.
Eagles also have fatherly connotations that play nicely with authority, control, guardianship and watching protectively over the family unit.
If you’re aiming for military or victory themes with your eagle tattoo, you can take the cue from Persia, Rome, Turkey, Russia, Germany, Poland, United States, Austria, and Napoleonic France. All of these nations have adopted the eagle at some point to signify superiority, authority and righteous domain.
Round out your research on eagle tattoo meanings by visiting these related pages:
Eagle Symbolism (full article).
Video about Eagle Symbolism here.
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Bird Tattoos, Military Tattoos, Native American Tattoos | 2 Responses »
Tags: courage, determination, endurance, faith, focus, intelligence, life, power, purity, strength, vitality, will
Monday, April 27th, 2009
- Tiger Tattoo Meaning
Tiger Tattoo Meaning (at-a-glance):
- Stealth
- Duality
- Royalty
- Strength
- Intellectual prowess
- Strategy
- Watchfulness
- Shapeshifting
- Supernatural powers
- Courage
- Heroism
- Determination
In Chinese symbolism the tiger represents both Yin and Yang energies. The tiger is powerful because it strength comes from both lunar and solar sources (symbolically). It is at once mystical and magical in lunar light – as well as commanding and authoritative by solar shine.
The Tiger is the third in the Chinese zodiac line-up and correlates to the sign of Gemini; an air sign which corresponds to symbolism of diversity, constant activity and intellectual superiority.
Tigers (and panthers) are sometimes represented on the Chariot card in the Tarot which is derived from the myth of Dionysus/Bacchus. In this case, tiger tattoo meaning is associated with drive, determination, perseverance, and a blinding need to reach a goal.
In the myths of Japan, the tiger is almost always connected with heroism, warriors and victory in battle for its keen intelligence, stealthy mannerisms and undeniable power.
Tigers are also associated with military, strategy and war heroes in Eastern Indian culture. In Hindu myth, the tiger is often linked with primal urges – urges that can be destructive while extremely effective in creation too. Witness to this destructive/creative tiger-force are the goddesses Kali and Durga who claim the tiger as their companion in deific art.
In Indian Buddhism, the tiger is a spiritual symbol. In this case, tiger tattoo meaning is connected with the tiger prowling through the jungle. This represents the spiritual path, and the tiger is symbolic of emerging from the jungles of distractions. Because Buddhists observed the tigers ability to navigate even in the dark, and by the moon – the tiger is symbolic of the light within…..that soulful, inner light that (ideally) navigates mankind.
Tigers standing at the front of sacred entrances (temples, tombs, etc) in Asian traditions signify protection and guardianship of souls.
If you found this page on tiger tattoo meaning interesting, you may also enjoy:
Chinese Tiger Symbolism (full article)
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Mammal Tattoos, Military Tattoos, Oriental Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: courage, determination, heroism, intelligence, power, protection, strength
