courage

...now browsing by tag

 
 

Falcon Tattoo Meanings

Friday, April 2nd, 2010
Falcon Tattoo Meaning and Symbolism

Falcon Tattoo Meaning and Symbolism


Falcon Tattoo Meanings
(at-a-glance):

  • Freedom
  • Focus
  • Vision
  • Determination
  • Divine Messages
  • Royalty
  • Devotion
  • Nobility
  • Honor
  • Strength
  • Skill
  • Aspiration
  • Strategy
  • Vitality
  • Clarity
  • Higher Ideals

Vision, vision, vision.  That’s what a falcon tattoo meaning says to me.  What kind of vision?   A passionate one.  An empirial aim for a higher ideal.  

Why do I feel that?  Because the falcon is a noble bird whose acumen for reaching greater heights  is legendary.

The Egyptians knew it.  That’s why the falcon is a noble companion and consort of their sun god, Ra.  With its association with solar power, Ra (and the falcon) were tantamount to superior vision.  They weren’t just one step removed from god – they were god.  We’re talking divine embodiment here – tapping into raw, primal heat.  Egyptians were savvy about the ways of the falcon, sure – but they were more aware of the spirit of the falcon which seemed to circle the sun with ferocious determination and ceaseless courage. 

That’s what I’m talking about when that concept of “vision” keeps flying through my observations about the falcon.  Falcon tattoos encourage us to scale the heavens of our own potential, fly fearlessly into the fire of the sun, and keep reaching higher – reaching for more – keep rising to hit the target of personal vision.

We get the sense of this in ancient Europe too where the falcon is a symbol of obtaining the “prize.”  The sport of falconry – training a raptor in the art of the hunt is highly honorable (when executed in the authentic tradition).  Training a falcon takes time, devotion, commitment – it requires focus on the skills and talents inherent in the bird too. 

True, the falcon does what it does naturally:  Hone in on the prey, and master the capture.  However, it takes the vision and focus of the falconer to refine these primal impulses in a falcon.  It also takes cooperation.  That’s one of the reasons falconry is relegated to royalty – because it recognizes respect and honor between man and beast.

That spirit of collaboration between human and raptor is key in a falcon tattoo.  It talks about communion with a divine essence with a bird of indomitable courage and ceaseless gumption.

Furthermore, if you’re thinking of getting a falcon tattoo, know that it’s more than a statement of power.  Know that you’re invoking the fine-bright, blinding power of the sun within that tattoo.  Know that the falcon can aid in your journey of commitment to your highest vision.  Know that in your flights of higher ideals, the falcon is a companion in your vision.  A true, revolutionary ally on your path to clarified focus.

These are just a few (rather passionate) thoughts about the falcon tattoo meanings. 

Do as the falcon does, and climb to ever higher reaches in your understanding by taking a look at a few other pages I’ve written about falcon symbolism:

Falcon Meaning and Symbolism (on Whats-Your-Sign.com)

Falcon Symbolism in the Tarot(on TarotTeachings.com)

The Peregrine Parable(a story of the spirit indwelling all of us, including the falcon – on my TokenRock blog)

Dog Tattoo Meaning and Symbolism

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

Dog Tattoo Meaning and Symbolism


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

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

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

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

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

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

Dogs are associated with both lunar  and solar qualities. 

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

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

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

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

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

Other canine compatriots:

Wolf Symbolism

Coyote Symbolism

Animal Track Symbolism

Fox Symbolism (general)

Fox Tattoo Meanings

Dog Symbolism

Thunderbird Tattoo Symbolism

Wednesday, October 7th, 2009

Thunderbird Tattoo Symbolism

Thunderbird Tattoo Symbolism

Thunderbird Tattoo Symbolism
(at-a-glance):

  • Power
  • Domination
  • Authority
  • Invincibility
  • Victory
  • Warrior
  • Strength
  • Creation
  • Destruction
  • Control
  • Protection
  • Provision
  • Respect
  • Courage in battle

Getting a Thunderbird tattoo will incorporate an intense Native American symbol into your awareness that is both extremely powerful and protective.

Depending upon which tribe you consult the Thunderbird serves as a mammoth warrior spirit.  You know when war is afoot because blinding beams of lightning shoot from the Thunderbirds eyes, and deafening cracks of thunder are heard in the skies from the flapping of Thunderbird wings.  In this light, Thunderbird tattoo symbolism heats the blood and prepares the wearer of the tattoo for battle. 

Thunderbirds are also extremely protective of warriors and peace-makers alike.  In fact, the Thunderbird gives strength and protection to fierce warriors who call upon the spirit bird.  The bird also favors peace keepers and when a wise elder in a tribe is ready to pass into the spirit realms, the Thunderbird is said to swoop down and carry away the soul of the tribal member so that he/she can live with the Thunderbird spirit lands in a place of honor.

Plains tribes describe four special kinds of Thunderbirds; one for each of the four corners of the Universe.  When getting your Thunderbird tattoo, you may want to think about each of these and their symbolic meanings:

  • The Golden Thunderbird of the East
    Symbolic of new beginnings and where creation stirs at the cusp of dawn. With the rising sun, a dawning of something greater overwhelms us.  As the warmth of a new day presses upon us, our own divine spark ignites and we are newly aware of far more potential in life than ever before. In this spiritually-focused quadrant, the Golden Thunderbird eyes shine vibrantly upon us and scintillate our souls with creative wisdom.  This divine Thunderbird represents: Spirit, Creativity, Beginnings, Clarity, Illumination
  • The Black Thunderbird of the West
    Symbolic of conclusions because this Thunderbird traces the path of the setting sun.  With this earthy, grounded vision we contemplate the material, and the bounty borne from the mouth of matter. In this physically-focused quadrant, the Thunderbird reminds us of our roots, our tribe, and our foundations.  The Black Thunderbird is symbolic of: Transition, Maturity, Materialism, Home, Hunting and Working with our Hands to achieve our needs. 
  • The White Thunderbird of the North
    Symbolic of the high peaked mountains and the heavens, this Thunderbird reminds us of our ability to think and strategize for a better way of life. This Thunderbird brings us wisdom, science and knowledge accumulated through natural life cycles.  This knowledge is purified atop the tips of sky-clad, ice-capped mountains of wisdom. After purification, this wisdom trickles to our awareness and we prepare for Intellectual illumination. In this mentally-focused quadrant, the greatest reaches of our comprehension roll back into us, causing avalanches of deductive reason. The White Thunderbird is symbolic of: Intellect, Cunning, Reasoning, Telepathy, Understanding, Perception and Strategy
  • The Red Thunderbird of the South
    A symbol of ancient bloodlines we share with all Native people in the vastness of humankind.  This Thunderbird flies through ancestral lineage and reveals our history in waves of pride-filled emotion.  The heart of this Thunderbird beats within us too because we are reminded of the collective heart beat – the rhythmic lub-dub we all share.  This Thunderbird represents the sacred bond of blood brothers and sisters within the cosmic clan of humankind.  The Red Thunderbird teaches us about relationships, family connections, community and partnerships.  Consequently, this Thunderbird is symbolic of: Love, Connection, Empathy, Compassion, Honor, Respect, Family, Bloodlines, and how we relate to our global community.

Don’t stop here.  Get more information on the Thunderbird to expand your understanding about Thunderbird Tattoo Symbolism by clicking on the links below:

Thunderbird Symbolism (the full article)

Bird Totems

Nature Symbolism

Native American Symbolism

Elephant Tattoos

Monday, October 5th, 2009

Elephant Tattoos

Elephant Tattoos

Symbolism of Elephant Tattoos
(at-a-glance):

  • Wisdom
  • Power
  • Strength
  • Peace
  • Luck
  • Longevity
  • Memory
  • Wisdom
  • Happiness
  • Nobility
  • Family/Community
  • Creation/Maternal
  • Good judgement
  • Fidelity
  • Determination
  • Invincibility
  • Consideration

Elephant tattoos, overwhelmingly seem to denote strength.  It’s no wonder – the animal is mammoth in size.  Weighing at over four tons and hitting over 10 feet tall, the elephant is a behemoth symbol conveying incredible power.

In spite of its girth, wildlife experts will tell you the elephant’s temper (unless provoked) is pretty low-key.  This is where many people derive special symbolism.  People who gravitate to elephant tattoos are often extremely powerful and can easily dominate – yet they prefer to keep peace and keep things calm.  Gentle Giants they could be described – just like elephants.

Elephants are extremely protective of their young and members of their herd.  This offers symbolism to people getting tattoos who place the value of their families above everything else.  Elephants will die to protect their family.  If you share the same fiercely protective instinct for your family, an elephant tattoo might be fitting for you.

The elephant is sacred to Buddha.  Legend indicates before Mahaprajapati Gautami’s incarnation as the Buddha, he developed in the womb in the form of a white elephant.  The white elephant is a pristine symbol of Buddhism to this day.  When associated with the Buddha, the meaning of an elephant tattoo conveys compassion, truth, peace, love and kindness.

Ganesha, a well-known Hindu deitiy has the head of an elephant.  Ganesha is thought to bring luck, and move obstacles out of the way for the pure of heart and intent.  A Ganesha tattoo often commemorates the god, and serves as a reminder that all hindrances are removed in faith and purity of intent.  Ganesha, is also a patron deity of art, science and as his elephant qualities imply, he is considered a god of great wisdom and discernment.

In regions of Tibet the elephant is associated with creation.  More specifically, ancient text depict an elephant holding up entire universe.  When the elephant is seen in ancient architecture holding up vast structures, carved in pillars and foundational stonework, this is symbolic of the stabilizing presence of the elephant and the legend of the elephant bearing the weight of the world – keeping the world on in place.  We also see this stabilizing symbolism of the elephant in India. People who “feel the weight of the world on their shoulders” may gravitate to elephant tattoos, and may be attracted to the elephant as a totem and as a giver of strength. 

Aristotle claimed the elephant abstained from sex while his mate was pregnant – a whole two years.  This lead to symbolism of chastity, patience, consideration and exhibiting thoughtful devotion in a relationship. This also carries meanings of prudence and moderation, which may appeal to some looking to commemorate these themes by getting an elephant tattoo.

Pliny, a Roman philosopher of the natural world had dealings with elephants while he served in the Roman Empire Army.  He said the elephant was every bit a sacred animal and symbolized renewal.  Pliny wrote that when elephants bathed in the rivers at night, this was symbolic of of purifying itself in the new moon

Roman perspectives also observed the elephant to be legendary for long lives – so they deemed the creature to be symbolic of immortality, longevity and living in harmony with divinity and nature. 

Alchemically, the elephant is attuned with Mercury, and thus shares symbolism of high intellect, communication, commerce and shrewd discernment.

Other pages to help expand your research on elephant tattoos:

Elephant Symbolic Meanings (full article)

Chakra Animals (including the elephant)

Elephant as a Good Luck Symbol

Elephant as an Earth Symbol

Elephant Meanings in Dreams

Scorpion Tattoos

Sunday, September 6th, 2009

Scorpion Tattoos and Scorpion Meaning

Scorpion Tattoos and Scorpion Meaning

Scorpion Tattoos and Symbolism
(at-a-glance):

  • Protection
  • Rebellion
  • Attachment
  • Retaliation
  • Aggression
  • Power
  • Warning
  • Mystery
  • Energy
  • Transition
  • Calculated
  • Stealth
  • Healing
  • Logic
  • Survival
  • Mysticism
  • Resilience
  • Guardianship
  • Self-defense
  • Altered perception

If you’re zealous about researching tattoo meanings to personal satisfaction, you’re going to run into sources touting scorpion tattoos as representations of dark traits like death, darkness or treachery.  If you want more of those kinds of meanings for scorpion tattoos, you can look elsewhere.

I’m not of the same mind, as I don’t believe in death.  Rather, we can look at the death theme associated with the scorpion as a time of transition from one phase of life into another. 

In this way, the scorpion tattoo can be a symbol of freedom from limiting beliefs about death.

The Egyptians were big on one life ending as a means to begin another life in the Afterworld.  And the scorpion was a powerful guardian to the ancient Egyptians and their concept of  life-after-life.

In fact, the scorpion was an attribute of the goddess Selket who was a guardian of transitioning souls.  Selket also protected canopic jars and various rituals of the mummification process that insured transition from one life to the next. 

This makes the scorpion a powerful guardian of soul-evolution.  – A protector of different kinds of life.  It also makes the scorpion a symbolic sentinel of the mysteries of the Afterworld.

In African aboriginal lore, the scorpion is associated with life and so-called death too.  The sting of a scorpion is said to have intense healing qualities and so this creature was greatly honored.  It was both highly respected because one sting could also prove lethal. 

Scorpion stings can also trigger hallucinogenic effects and so the theme of transition continues.  In this light, the scorpion (sting) is a catalyst for reaching altered states of consciousness

This puts scorpion tattoos in the psychedelic category – a message of limitless perception.  It’s also a shamanic creature due to its hallucination-sparking stings as shamans could utilize their venom for spirit journeying.

The scorpion is a master at survival.  It takes advantage of every opportunity for the sake of its existence as many kinds of scorpions live in brutally harsh environments.  This makes the scorpion a symbol of victory over adversity.

Scorpions are also associated with the sun.  Therefore, scorpion tattoos will have sun-like qualities including: Energy, Vitality, Clarity, Focus and Radiance.

The scorpion is a representation of the zodiac sign of Scorpio, and in this context a scorpion tattoo will convey attributes of: Boldness, Dynamism, Mystical Power, Secretiveness and Seduction.

Read more about this topic to fill out your research on scorpion tattoos:

Scorpion Symbolic Meaning (full article)

Scorpio zodiac sign meanings

Solar Animals: Radiating Symbolism

Insect Totems and Meanings

Heart Tattoos

Friday, September 4th, 2009

Heart Tattoos and Heart Meanings

Heart Tattoos and Heart Meanings

Symbolic meaning of heart tattoos
(at-a-glance):

  • Love
  • Acceptance
  • Central
  • Whole
  • Vitality
  • Friendship
  • Compassion
  • Spirituality
  • Honor
  • Sacred
  • Emotion
  • Courage
  • Life
  • Hope
  • Passion
  • Luck
  • Faith
  • Trust

Heart tattoos typically convey love, friendship and they commemorate our feelings of adoration.   They also represent unity and the centralization of life as the human heart is the center engine of life.

The heart symbol itself reminds me of a vessel holding pure potential of love.  I get this from my education in the Tarot where the suit of cups is associated with love, connectivity, intuition, emotion and passion.  The suit of cups in Tarot corresponds to the suit of hearts in conventional playing card decks.

The heart symbol also talks about procreation; creating something wholly unique and divine from the union of partnership (like the birth of a child from a union).  Why?  because the lower portion of the heart symbol represents a triangle, which is an ancient symbol for creation, creativity, and the birth of something new from the culmination of sacred love.

Heart tattoos can also represent a deep spiritual love.  To wit, ancient Greeks and Egyptians believed the heart was the center of emotional, spiritual and intellectual life for humans.  The Greeks were convinced the heart was the source of emotional intelligence and specialized thought was born from the heart (not the brain). 

I’ve seen heart tattoos with feathers, and this reminds me of the legendary “weighing of the soul” ritual performed by Egyptians during mummification.  Anubis weighed the heart against the weight of a feather.  If the heart was lighter than a feather, then the spirit of the deceased was light enough to ascend through the Corridors of Judgment.  This is symbolic of purity in spirit, integrity and a soul worthy of progressing into the Afterlife.

In Buddhism, the heart is associated with the Dharmacakra; the  Wheel of Law.  In this context, heart tattoos will be symbolic of the perfection of the Universe.  It also conveys mindfulness, spiritual devotion and compassion.

In Christianity the heart will continue its theme of love and unity.  The Sacred Heart tattoo (a heart with a hovering flame wrapped in thorns) is symbolic of the capacity of Christ’s compassion – a symbol of his enduring belief in the potential of brotherly/sisterly love.  It is an icon that beckons humankind to keep the fire of the soul well tended – even in the face adversity.

Heart tattoos with arrows through the heart hold similar meanings.  These typically represent lasting love in the face of hardship.  They are also symbolic of Cupids (Eros in Greek myth) arrow piercing the heart and forever joining lovers with his amorous aim.

If you need more information on the heart, check out my full article on Heart Symbolic Meaning here.

Bull Tattoo Symbolism

Monday, August 31st, 2009

Bull Tattoo Symbolism

Bull Tattoo Symbolism

Bull Tattoo Symbolism
(at-a-glance):

  • Provision
  • Confidence
  • Fertility
  • Virility
  • Charged
  • Power
  • Protection
  • Sacred
  • Peace
  • Holy
  • Provision
  • Stability
  • Forceful
  • Assistance
  • Grounding
  • Natural
  • Assertive
  • Satisfaction
  • Comfort

Bull tattoo symbolism can go in two directions.  They can convey power, authority and confidence.  Or, they can illustrate peace and a deep honor for the sacredness of spirituality.  Which direction you move with your bull tattoo will be up to you.

As a symbol of power and confidence we look to the bull’s massive physical stature for these identifications.  It is a mammoth mammal weighing in around 1000-2500 pounds (about the same weight as some vehicles!) We are all familiar with the term “charging bull” and so imagine a raging beast this size.  That’s a clear image of solid, unstoppable assertiveness.  To be sure, if you want your tattoo to express a powerhouse of will, and a force to be reckoned with – the bull is a clear choice.

The bull also shares symbolism with the Taurus sign in the astrological zodiac.  In this perspective, the bull is symbolic of stability, comfort and self-assurance.  If any of you know a Taurus, you will know they can be stubborn.  They know right and wrong in their guts and they will defend their positions just as vehemently as a charging bull does.  They will not be swayed.  So, a bull tattoo might be a good choice to honor the bullish tendencies of the Taurus (if you or a loved one is the sign of a Taurus). 

The bull (or Ox) is also in Chinese astrology and represents attributes like: Loyalty, reliability, strength, steadiness, determination.

I’ve seen many rodeo pros and enthusiasts with bull tattoos.  They’ve told me their tattoo represents their ability to harness raw power as they all straddle and ride the bull for those legendary eight seconds.  Bull tattoo symbolism also carries a message of “facing down fear” for many bull riders and rodeo pros.

As an ancient archetype, the bull is symbolic of fertility, virility and sexual strength.  The bull has been honored by ancient cultures at being well endowed and so (from a typically male and very human perspective) honored for its ability to please its mate.

Bulls are also consummate providers for mankind.  For example, they’ve walked with farmers in the agricultural process for centuries – enabling man to grow and harvest.  In this light, the bull tattoo can serve as a reminder we can work with nature and our animal kin in order to meet our needs.

This aspect of provision is also symbolic of peace, harmony and cooperation.  Bulls have been labeled the “beasts of burden” taken on tremendous tasks of strength in order to help mankind in our labours.  Bulls do this with a stoic nobility.  Peacefully providing their power for our benefit.  It’s no wonder the normally calm-natured animal is held sacred by so many.

Other pages of interest for your tattoo research:

Bull Symbolism (full article)

Bull Symbol in the Tarot

Celtic Bull Symbolism

Cow Symbolism

Shark Tattoo Meaning

Friday, August 28th, 2009

Shark Tattoo Meaning

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

Iron Cross Tattoo Meaning

Saturday, August 15th, 2009

Iron Cross Tattoo Meaning

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

Maltese Cross Tattoo Meaning

Saturday, August 15th, 2009

Maltese Cross Tattoo Meaning

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