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Wednesday, July 14th, 2010
Snake Tattoo Meaning
Snake Tattoo Meaning (at-a-glance):
- Renewal
- Protection
- Transition
- Mystery
- Defense
- Magic
- Infinity
- Sexuality
- Hidden
- Grounded
- Transformation
Snake tattoos are classic. Utterly classic. Ok, so I’m biased.
I’ve got quite a few serpentine tattoos. I’m just compelled that way. Fortunately, snake tattoo meanings are as diverse as my own views/moods/persuasions. In other words, theses silky ink-sentinels are so vast in their symbolic potential, that they accommodate my own complexities without fail.
If you’re a diverse soul, and recognize the depth of your own diversity, a snake tattoo might appeal to you too.
Why? Let’s take a look at snake symbolism throughout various cultures.
In Greek myth, snakes are symbolic of health and healing as we see them associated with Asclepius (see the Staff of Asclepius tattoo meaning here), who was a renowned deity of medicine, healing and said to grant regenerative powers. That sense of renewal comes from the snake who sheds off the old (skin) and emergest shiny, bright and new after each shedding.
Snakes in many cultures (African, Chinese, Native American Hopi to name a few) are associated with water, and this emphasizes their connection to healing. Why? Because water is symbolic of healing, cleansing and purifying.
Are you intent on personal purification? Is the concept of healing, renewing and clarifying vital to you? If so, you may owe it to yourself to research this aspect of snake tattoo meaning. The more you research this angle of snake symbolism, the more you may find yourself empowered by it.
Asclepius’ snake is singular, but myth also shows many deities with double-snakes, and these will have powerful meanings of balance, duality, and joining opposing elements for the purpose of unification – even enlightenment. You can learn more about these symbolic concepts of double-snakes on my Caduceus tattoo symbolism page.
Are you acutely aware of the inherent polarities in all life? Do you constantly seek temperance and happy-mediums and balance? If so, you may want to look into some very ancient wisdom about the double-snake symbolism. For example, you can look to ancient alchemy who use the double-snake illustration as a sign-post to denote the conjugation of opposites with a goal for higher (illumined, balanced, advanced) results (offspring/progeny – a union of two causing a birth of something new and fundamentally more advanced). You can also research double-snake symbolism in Hindu myth/legend where you’ll learn about a metaphysical connectionas discussed in the kundalini phenomenon.
Snakes are also protective symbols. They are considered protectors of the underworld in Greco-Roman ideology, and are often seen in funerary art to convey guardianship over burial sites. Countless ancient cultures recognize snakes as protectors of abstruse mysteries, and that’s why we see snakes commonly adorn magical personalities through history. Whether a priestess like Pythia or a sage like Hermes, when you see a snake associated with powerful archetypes of deep (esoteric/occult) wisdom, it is a symbol of protecting sacred knowledge. Let’s face it, the snake can be a pretty intimidating force, and so, it’s a perfect icon for guarding that which is profoundly mystical. Just another aspect to consider while you contemplate snake tattoo meaning.
As you continue your research about snake symbolism, you’re going to find tons of meanings and varying discussions about what this noble creature represents. That’s why I find it so appropriate as a tattoo. The snake is a shifter, and as my own inner landscape shifts, I find my snake tattoos are fully qualified to shift with me. To be sure, snakes can accommodate fathoms of moods, meanings and ideas – and so they make perfect emblems of power.
I hope you’ve enjoyed these scant thoughts on snake tattoo meaning. Check out the links below for more rounding-out of your research:
Snake Symbolism (full-detail article)
Snake Totems
Double-Snake symbolism
Caduceus Tattoo Meanings
Staff of Asclepius Tattoo Symbolism
Uroboros Symbolism (the snake that devours its own tail)
Posted in Alchemy Tattoos, Animal Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Personal Observations, Reptile Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: cleansing, defense, divination, divine, enlightenment, grounded, healing, health, intelligence, magic, magical, magick, mystery, mystical, myth, power, protection, purification, rebirth, renewal, sexuality, snake, spirituality, transformation, transition, unification, unity, wisdom
Sunday, February 14th, 2010
Lotus Tattoo Meaning
Lotus Tattoo Meaning
at-a-glance:
- Light
- Awareness
- Illumination
- Opening
- Renewal
- Creation
- Life
- Balance
- Revelation
- Direction
Much of the sacred symbolism behind the lotus comes from its relationship with the elements of water and fire.
It grows in the water, and so therefore the lotus is a natural tribute to water-affiliated concepts like: Dreams, Emotion, Intuition, Awareness, Purification.
The lotus blossom opens each morning, unfolding its vitality in the face of the dawning sun. This is the solar connection – the link to fire which proffers symbolism of: Passion, Vitality, Revelation, Clarity, Life and Vision.
These powerful symbolic meanings combined with the lush, elegant lotus make for a dynamic tattoo – especially for people wanting to convey a gentle opening to the profound simplicity of Nature as an analogy for walking along the spiritual path.
Lotus tattoo meaning is deeply rooted in spiritual purity. The Buddha for example is seen emerging from the lotus. In fact the mantra “mani padme” meaning “jewel of the lotus” is a reference to Nirvana.
Observation, meditation and focus upon the lotus is encouraged as a doorway to unique realms of perception. The lotus is a portal to magnificent awareness – and many masters (ancient and modern alike) recognize this enchanting power of this beguiling blossom. A lotus tattoo might serve as a constant reminder of the majesty it represents.
The lotus is symbolic of many vast concepts in ancient culture, such as:
- The human heart
- Unmanifested potential
- The process of universal creation
- The eight (petals) directions – navigation
- Awareness rising out of chaos (blooms from murky water)
The blooms emerging from water, along with distinctly delicate features of the lotus are reminiscent of feminine qualities. Egyptian, Hindu, Japanese and Indian cultures all recognize the theme of birth and renewal through the lotus.
Are you birthing a new phase in your life that offers a gentle clarity in your inner views? Are you emerging from chaos into a lucid illumination? Are you seeking a daily devotion that represents renewal and rebirth?
A “yes” to any one of these questions might make you give more consideration to the lotus tattoo meaning. If the lotus symbolism calls to you with a subtle song of tender elegance, it’s worth your time to look more deeply into its petals for meaning in your own life.
To be sure, there is a lot more involved to lotus symbolism than what I’ve covered here. Do more research on your own – I guarantee your investment to learning more about the lotus will be enlightening.
Some other pages of interest:
Symbolic Flower Meanings
Flower Color Meanings
Nature Symbolism
Chakra Symbolism
Sun Symbolism
Water Symbolism
Posted in Egyptian Tattoos, Flower Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Oriental Tattoos, Personal Observations, Plant Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: awareness, balance, clarification, creation, creativity, direction, enlightenment, evolution, evolved, fertility, illumination, intelligence, intuition, life, light, opening, passion, perception, purity, renewal, revelation, spirit, spiritual, spirituality, vision, vitality
Monday, January 18th, 2010
Panther Tattoo Symbolism
Panther tattoo symbolism
at-a-glance:
- Power
- Stealth
- Action
- Protection
- Dark Mystery
- Attraction
- Sensuality
- Deep Magic
- Feminine Power
- Solitary
- Stealthiness
- Invincibility
- Shadow Self
- Shamanic Sight
- Secret Keeper
- Sorcery
- Intelligence
- Ferocity
- Agility
- Stamina
- Patience
- Silence
- Honor
In order to familiarize ourselves with the power and purpose that backs up panther tattoos, it behooves us to observe a bit about the panther in the wild.
In their natural habitat, panthers are stalkers. They track movements of their prey, stealthily prowl and ambush the object of their hunt from a blind-side. This is symbolic of strategy. The panther contemplates its most advantageous tactic. Are you a calculating individual? Do you sit back and observe your surroundings before you act? Do you take in the details, and then pounce on opportunities when the timing is right? If this sounds like you, then the panther may be the perfect totem tattoo for you.
Not only do these magnificent creatures symbolize intelligence and tact, they also represent deep aspects of magic. This is largely due to their native habitat. The panther dwells within the deepest regions of the darkest jungles. In ancient cultures the panthers home is within the richest wombs of the earth – where moist emerald jungles teem with life, breathe with diversity and glisten with rich vitality.
It is here the panther claims its kingdom and silently roams its dense and exotic realms. There is much that remains unknown within the folds of the jungle – and the unknown is the gateway to magic. It makes sense the panther is the keeper of this dark, sacred magic. Do the realms of shadow, and the lands of exotic unknowns excite you? The panther tattoo is a fitting memorial for this kind of fascination.
The sense of magic and the idea of the panther as a sacred “secret keeper” is enhanced by it’s obsidian hues. Black panthers are symbolic of the night – where secrets are kept tightly locked away from the light of the sun. Black is a color of mystery and silence and deep secrets. Black is also a very lunar energy and can be associated with the Divine Feminine.
Interestingly, the panther is a solitary creature, preferring its own company over anyone else’s. Outside of a mother raising her cubs, panthers live, hunt and evolve alone. This is symbolic of the Hermit - an ancient archetype of one who contemplates and evolves in unique understandings due to living a solitary life. Living in this manner causes unorthodox insights, and brings one closer to understanding various precious secrets of life because there are no distractions.
Just something to consider as you embark upon your exploration of getting a panther tattoo. If you tend to enjoy solitude, contemplating the deeper mysteries in life, the panther may be calling to you.
The panther is also considered a symbol of protection, and many South American myths identify the panther as the guardian of spirit worlds. In the wild, panthers hunt during dusk and dawn – these are considered to be powerful moments in time among ancient cultures. Dusk and dawn are moments of transition and magical metamorphosis – moments of infinite potential.
This, combined with it’s sleek black coat, piercing eyes and consummate hunting skills makes the panther a legendary guardian of other realms, and spiritual worlds. Are you the protector of your own special worlds? Are you the guardian of your clan or tribe? Perhaps a panther tattoo is the right emblem to convey your powerful ability to guard that which is precious to you.
On the prowl for more information? I don’t blame you, I’m always prowling around for more too. Take a look at my Panther Symbolism page for more intriguing symbolic tidbits.
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Indigenous Tattoos, Mammal Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Native American Tattoos, Personal Observations, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: action, agile, attraction, faith, feminine, guardian, honor, infinite, intelligence, invincible, magic, mystery, patience, power, protection, secret, sensuality, shadow, shamanism, spiritual, stamina, stealth, strength, wisdom
Friday, 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
Friday, August 28th, 2009
Shark Tattoo Meaning
Shark Tattoo Meaning
(at-a-glance):
- Power
- Assertiveness
- Instinct
- Focus
- Authority
- Effectiveness
- Calculated
- Confident
- Protection
- Graceful
- Strength
- Fearlessness
- Energy
- Knowing
- Self-assurance
- Survivor
Shark tattoo meaning deals with the indomitable spirit of the shark. These creatures are built for survival, (they haven’t evolved much in over 400 million years!). As such they are perfect for people who want a tattoo to signify they are survivors. Symbolically, this speaks to our human hearts, and tells us:
a) We are born perfectly designed (how can you improve perfection?).
b) Whatever life throws at us, we will survive.
To the Maori, the mako shark (mako meaning shark or shark tooth) is a sacred fish because of its status as “king of the waters.” To their natural way of viewing life, the shark is a powerful symbol of victory and superior power to the Maori. I’ve seen a few Maori shark tattoos (shark teeth, specifically) and indeed their bold presence is equally bold in symbolism.
Celtic shark tattoos will capture the symbolism of the scythe because ancient Celts (who were quite sea-savvy) observed the dorsal fin of the shark to look a lot like a sickle or scythe (the crescent blade used to harvest wheat. Also a sacred Druidic tool). As scythes are synonymous with harvesting and also the closing of an agricultural season, the shark to the ancient Celts would speak of respectfully gathering resources while opportunity is available. It also speaks of transition, cycles and acknowledging the passage of one phase of life into another.
Shark tattoos are considered symbols of protection – especially for sailors, pirates and those who travel often (particularly by sea).
Interestingly, the Hindu god Vishnu is sometimes shown leaping out of the mouth of a shark. This can be interpreted several ways. Predominantly it signifies the dominance of Nature; that Nature and her creatures must be respected – never underestimated. This illustration also puts sharks on a divine level, having same status as gods and goddesses. This reinforces shark symbolism of power and authority.
For more soulful insights and other pages of similar symbolism visit:
Shark Symbolism: Living Life Full-On
Water Symbolism: Emotional Intelligence
Water Totems: Swimming with Symbolism
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Celtic Tattoos, Fish Tattoos, Indigenous Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: authority, confidence, courage, determination, drive, energy, excellence, fearlessness, focus, instinct, intelligence, knowing, power, strength, survivor
Thursday, August 20th, 2009
Cat Tattoo Symbolism
Cat Tattoo Symbolism
(at-a-glance):
- Independence
- Mystery
- Magic
- Secretiveness
- Feminine/Goddess Energy
- Stealthy
- Hidden power
- Aloofness
- Solitude
- Companionship
- Renewal
- Transformation
- Freedom
- Vitality
- Transition
- Luck
- Cleverness
- Intelligence
- Playfulness
- Wandering spirit
- Incarnation
- Apathy
- Authority
- Protection
- Royalty
- Shapeshifting
- Shadows
- Watchfulness
- Psychism
- Grace
- Beauty
- Adoration
With a long list of symbolic meanings like this, there are plenty of reasons to consider a cat tattoo for your next ink adventure.
We can make sense of some of these symbolic attributes by investigating the various cultural/mythological deities associated with cats. Many of these deities are goddesses and have feminine/lunar qualities which carry themes of: Fertility, Nurturing, Emotion and Intuition to name a few.
Here are some deities associated with cats to round out your research into cat tattoo symbolism:
- Artemis (Greek): Lunar goddess associated with hunting, fertility & protector of the sacredness of Nature.
- Diana (Roman): Also a moon goddess who help all wildlife and Nature as sacred. Governed the sacred act of the hunt.
- Hecate(Greek): Goddess guardian of the sacred feminine, holder of magic knowledge, cycles, transition, shapeshifting
- Bast (Egyptian): Solar goddess, fiercely protective of children and matron of childbirth, magic, ritual and sacred feminine
- Freyja (Norse): Goddess of love, beauty, pleasure, childbirth and good taste. Cats pulled her chariot.
I have several friends with cat tattoos. Most of them tell me the reason for their cat-inspired ink is to memorialize the passing of a dear feline friend. Those who aren’t commemorating their pet, tell me they got their cat tattoo as a symbol of protection. They understood the ways of ancient mythological gods/goddesses and drew upon the protective qualities of the cat as a means to bolster their own confidence.
In fact, to the ancient Celtic way of thinking cats were consideredthe guardians of the Otherworld (or Underworld, depending which texts you read from various regions). Stoic, silent and mysterious, it’s clear why cats make outstanding Otherworld guardians. They keep the secrets of the Otherworld eternally to themselves, as the gaze with guile upon a world that does not see or understand the depth of their knowledge. Astute, crafty and clever, cats were considered residents of Celtic mystic realms too. When invoked, cat energy can grant the caller a variety of insights regarding esoteric, ethereal knowledge. These powerful meanings in Celtic lore often play an important role in selecting cats for tattoos.
I like the theme of shape-shifting when discussing cat tattoos. In Japan, folk tales describe cats having the ability to walk between worlds. Other Japanese legends tell of cats joining forces with women to shift their behavior and demeanor. This tale seeks to explain woman’s unpredictable, sometimes secretive nature.
Western European folklore also keeps record of cats aiding women in feats of shape-shifting. Early writings about witchcraft report cats always drawing close to women practicing witchcraft – they were called “familiars.” The term refers to the ability to move as a cat does in otherworldly ways… shape-shifting or casting out magic by secret means – just as a cat often moves about in sleek, stealthy ways.
Whether you are seeking cat tattoo symbolism in the form of honoring the passing of a beloved pet, or paying homage to ancient goddesses who claimed the cat as their companion in myth – to be sure, the cat is an awesome subject for your next tattoo.
More information for your Tattoo Research:
Cat Symbolism (domestic & general symbolic meanings).
Cat Symbolism in Tarot
Moon Symbolism
Celtic Symbolism
Cats as Celtic Zodiac Sign
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Celtic Tattoos, Egyptian Tattoos, Mammal Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Oriental Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: authority, beauty, clever, cleverness, companionship, confidence, feminine, freedom, independence, intelligence, luck, lucky, magic, oracle, playfulness, power, protection, royalty, secrets, shapeshifting, spirituality, transition
Wednesday, May 13th, 2009
Dolphin Tattoos and Meanings
Dolphin Tattoos and Meanings
(at-a-glance):
- Intelligence
- Playfulness
- Friendship
- Freedom
- Intuition
- Sensitivity
- Dreaming
- Connection
- Happiness
- Protection
- Love
Dolphin tattoos may convey a sense of playfulness by the wearer as the dolphin itself is renowned for its sense of play, joy and freedom.
Dolphins are well noted for their intelligence. In ancient Greece, the dolphin symbolized god-like intelligence and was associated with the powerful god Apollo. Apollo is also a deity who represents light and so dolphin tattoos will convey higher thought, and an illumined life. As an associate of Apollo the dolphin will also have kingly traits like: Strength, Power and Authority. We also see these themes in the dolphin’s association with Poseidon. Indeed, the Greeks dubbed the dolphin as the “King of the Sea” and with this moniker, kingly attributes will also apply to the dolphin.
The ancient Greeks also viewed the dolphin as the transporter of souls to Isles of the Blessed. In this light we pick up symbolic themes of transition, transformation and ascending to new levels of being. Symbolism of resurrection and dolphins also shows up in Christian art as the dolphin is also featured as a carrier of souls. In this respect, dolphin tattoos may also represent the light of Christ comforting and guiding souls to their final spiritual home.
The dolphin may also have lunar meanings too. It’s semi-circle body shape (notably seen during airborne flips) looks like crescent moons. The dolphin is also a companion of Aphrodite who maintains feminine and moon symbolism. With moon associations comes traits like: Intuition, Dreaming, Psychism, Depth, Emotion.
Two dolphin tattoos together will represent both sun and moon. It also symbolizes duality, partnership, cooperation and balance.
Other pages of interest for your dolphin tattoo researching pleasure:
Symbolism of the Dolphin (full article)
Symbolism of Water
Symbolism of the Moon
Posted in Animal Tattoos, Christian Tattoos, Fish Tattoos, Mammal Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: compassion, connection, dreaming, freedom, friendship, happiness, intelligence, intuition, joy, love, protection, sensitivity
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 | 4 Responses »
Tags: courage, determination, endurance, faith, focus, intelligence, life, power, purity, strength, vitality, will
