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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
Wednesday, February 17th, 2010
Cloud Tattoo Symbolism
Potential Cloud Tattoo Symbolism
at-a-glance:
- Mystery
- Illusion
- Dreams
- Intuition
- Culmination
- Secrets
- Potential
- Emotional
- Epiphany
- Revelation
Of course, cloud tattoos don’t have to have meaning or symbolism (gasp, did I just say that?!?). Often clouds are used in tattoos as accentuation’s, great design elements. Or, sometimes cloud tattoos are even used as clever cover-ups.
For those of us (like moi) who tend to read symbolism into everything, clouds never leave us high and dry in their symbolic meaning.
In Greco-Roman mythology, clouds are considered homesteads of the gods. Clouds always clung to Mount Olympus, home of the gods, and so therefore they became synonymous with deific dwelling places. By the same token, clouds were considered to be an accumulation of godly messages. Storm clouds then would signal bad news & light-bright puffy clouds would be carriers of significantly more hopeful messages.
In Chinese symbolism, clouds represent transition and transformation. Clouds seen in ancient Chinese art often point to the process of transformation from primitive/banal to ascended/spiritual. It would seem this path to soulful evolution is just as transitory and unpredictable as clouds themselves. Fitting symbol for the ways of spiritual progress.
Hindu and Tibetan perspectives about clouds reveal concepts of transition too – but in more of a temporary way. In this view, clouds are symbolic of impremance. If you’re into zen, a cloud tattoo feature might be the perfect way to convey your devotion to impermanence, and your whole understanding of detachment.
Clouds combine the symbolism of both air and water. In deeply esoteric and occult symbolism, air represents the realms of the mind (thought, mentality). Water represents themes of emotion, intuition and the psyche. Combined then, cloud tattoos in this way of thinking might convey a message of tempering & balancing emotion with intellect.
Clouds also hold rain, and that is an ancient symbol of fertility, abundance and prosperity.
I hope these thoughts on cloud tattoo symbolism clear away any fog you might have.
Keep breezing through potential symbolism with these other pages of interest:
Native American Wind Symbol
Cloud Meanings in the Tarot
Air Totems
Sylphs: Air Elementals
Water Symbolism
Posted in Celestial Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Native American Tattoos, Oriental Tattoos, Personal Observations, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: clarification, clarity, dreams, emotion, epiphany, evolution, fertility, god, illusion, impermanence, intellect, intuition, messages, mind, mystery, prosperity, revelation, secret, secrets, soul, spirit, spirituality, transformation, transition
Friday, February 12th, 2010
Mermaid Tattoo Meaning
Mermaid Tattoo Meaning
at-a-glance:
- Seductive
- Alluring
- Feminine
- Emotional
- Tempestuous
- Wild
- Intuitive
- Reflective
- Enchanting
- Free
- Fluid
- Sensual
- Elusive
If you have an irrepressible love for the sea and this worlds’ oceans, a mermaid tattoo might be a very fitting symbol for you.
Mermaids in myth are legendary for their unpredictability, and tempestuous ways. Just like their home, the ocean, mermaids will never be bound to orthodoxy or convention. Are you a wild one? A renegade? If so, perhaps the mermaids song sings in your soul – a song of passion and unbridled freedom.
Speaking of song, the mermaid is heralded for her enchanting voice. Apart from her astonishingly striking beauty, mermaid song holds irresistible attraction. Melodic narcotic.
Indeed, she uses her looks and voice to woo unsuspecting souls at sea. Depending on which myth you’re reading, a mermaid’s purpose for luring seafarers could be to offer refuge, salvation or pleasure. On the flip-side, she could be offering death.
I totally dig this whole “righteous vs. evil” two-face potential of the mermaid. It screams duality to me, and of course underscores the theme of unpredictability. A friend of mine, Monica, got a mermaid tattoo to convey her “flavor of the moment” attitude. She takes a great deal of pride in her nature – which is technicolor, varied and mind-bogglingly changeable. Her moods undulate like the seas. She recognizes in herself the ability to be utterly charming, compassionate and kind – whilst at the same time, she knows she is capable of dastardly deeds. She’s okay with that, and her mermaid tattoo conveys that kind of cool self-confidence required to look with honesty at both sides of her behavioral coins. Rock on Mon.
This kind of emotive metamorphosis is also associated with the moon, which the mermaid holds sacred. We’ve all heard of unpredictable behavior and events around various phases of the moon….it’s why the root of “lunacy” is based on the Latin word for moon: Luna. We know mermaids are energetically connected with the moon because the sea is influenced by it. Also, in ancient depictions of mermaids, they are often shown with mirrors – which is a symbol of the moon. So, we’re talking about a very yin, or femininine aspect here.
To be sure, mermaids are symbolic of sensuality, and I’ve known several people (men and women) who pressed ink to flesh in mermaid-form as a way to express their inner voluptuousness. Where convention and taboo sometimes prohibits provocative behavior, a mermaid tattoo can speak for us in terms of eroticism and sexual confidence. Very cool.
In myth (mostly Celtic, ancient European), mermaids were very big juju in terms of knowing. They were thought to have deep psychic connection which makes utter sense as we learn the element of water is connected to concepts like: Dreaming, Intuition, Emotion, Deeper Knowing. In this line of thought, mermaids are knowers of deeper, darker aspects of the soul. Just as the sea holds unknown mysteries, so too do our own psyche’s – but legend indicates mermaids can see clear to the core of a human. That kind of “clear-knowing” might also be a symbolic sea treasure as you consider mermaid tattoos.
These are just few thoughts about mermaid tattoo meaning for your contemplative pleasure.
Swim ’round my other page on Mermaid Meaning and Symbolism here. You might find more inspiration for you mermaid tattoo from that article too.
Surf around a few other pages you might like:
Water Symbolism
Symbolic Undines (Water Elementals)
Nature Symbolism
Moon Symbolism
Dolphin Symbolism
More on Mermaid Meaning and Symbolism
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Celtic Tattoos, Fish Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Personal Observations, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: alluring, connected, connection, elusive, emotional, enchanting, feminine, free, intuitive, magic, moon, mystery, perceptive, provocative, psychic, reflective, seductive, sensual, sexual, spirit, spiritual, spirituality, tempestuous, unpredictable, wild
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 | No Responses »
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, Religious Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
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
Tuesday, January 5th, 2010
Rose Tattoo Meaning
Rose tattoo meaning
At-a-glance:
- Honor
- Heart
- Devotion
- Purity
- Love
- Revelation
- Expansion
- Resurrection
- Beauty
- Divinity
- Victory
- Passion
- Balance
- Sensuality
- Spirituality
- Duality
- Romance
- Memory
- Secrets
- Vitality
- Trust
- Creativity
I see rose tattoos a lot. It’s no mystery why. The rose is an incredibly powerful image whose symbolism transcends in elegant ways.
Interestingly, many people with rose tattoos adore their personal blossoms, but are unaware of some of its ancient mysteries. Let’s take a moment to smell the sweet scent of rose symbolism through the various perspectives:
Roman – Honor the Fallen: In the height of their time, roses and rose petals were strewn across the bodies and/or grave sites of soldiers. Red roses were used to symbolize blood shed for the Roman Empire. Red is associated with Mars, the god of war. It’s also associated with Venus, goddess of love. The intoxicating scent of roses lifted through the air, and carried the spirits of fallen heroes into the loving arms of Venus with Mars looking on with fierce pride. There are themes of resurrection here, which can be incorporated into your own ideas of rose tattoo meaning.
Greek – Erotic Creative Vision: The rose is associated with heavy-hitters in Greek myth like Aphrodite (lovely love goddess), Hecate (the insanely powerful dominatrix of the intangibles), Dionysus (that affectionate hedonistic party animal). We see themes of eroticism, mystery and sensuality in these Greek gods who partake of the velvet realms of the rose. I’m particularly intrigued by the rose’s association with the classic Greek Muses, especially Erato who was a heart-stopping beauty. She was gifted with spectacular creativity too. Roses are symbolic of her ability to pierce the heart of man with her intoxicating song and beauty. And so, your rose tattoo can woo the creative, sensual muse and goddess from within.
Rosicrucian/Alchemical - Unfolding Progress: The Rosicrucian’s, an elite fleet of visionaries formed under the fatherly tutelage of Dr. Christian Rosenkreuz held the rose at the center of their symbolic focal point. The rose is featured as a symbol of spiritual progress – an unfolding or blossoming to ever grander heights in human evolution. Traditional rosy crosses are multi-layered. The center section of the rose is symbolic of unity and reminds the observer that god is the glue of all life. Other layers will point to initiation and progress along the pilgrimage to enlightenment. So, if you are experience a resurgence of the soul – a rose tattoo meaning may convey a sense of transformation, blossoming and unfolding beautifully to share new depths of yourself with the world.
Christian – Unblemished Bliss: The rose often adorns the beloved Mary in Christian art as a symbol of purity, innocence, beauty, sacrifice and perfection. From fragrance to visage – the rose is a fitting brand for the blessed Mary. The “Rose of Sharon” is symbolic of the Church. Colors also play a part in rose meanings in Christian thought. White roses are symbolic of purification. Red roses serve as a memorial to the blood of the slain Christ. If you have aims to express your faith in deeply symbolic ways, then a rose tattoo may be for you.
This is a little trip around the world in terms of seeking rose tattoo meaning.
Want more?
I don’t blame you – I always want more too. . . and here are some links that provide exactly that:
Symbolic Rose Meaning
Language of Flowers (including the rose)
The Rose as a Flower Zodiac Sign
More Symbolic Meanings of the Rose (on my blog)
Symbolism of Flower Colors
Posted in Alchemy Tattoos, Christian Tattoos, Flower Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Plant Tattoos, Religious Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: beauty, devotion, divinity, duality, expansion, heart, honesty, honor, life, light, love, memorial, memory, passion, resurection, romance, secrets, sensuality, spirit, spiritual, spirituality, transformation, trust, truth, victory, vitality
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
