luck

...now browsing by tag

 
 

Frog Tattoo Symbolism

Monday, May 24th, 2010
Frog Tattoo Symbolism

Frog Tattoo Symbolism


Frog Tattoo Symbolism
at-a-glance:

  • Transformation
  • Good luck
  • Sensitivity
  • Perceptive
  • Renewal
  • Intuitive

Some folks are completely enchanted by frogs.  My friend Julie loves them, and has the most gorgeous back piece of brilliant viridian tree frogs. 

Frogs are like little evolutional miracles transforming right under our noses.  In their one life-cycle, the whole of evolution is revealed (that is, if you take a Darwinian approach).  Whether you dig evolutionism, or you are creationist, there is no denying the frog is a marvel at transformation. 

In just a short 12 weeks, the frog will move from an exclusively all-water environment to a more liberated existence as a both land & water dweller.  The gills it used in its underwater life will be replaced with lungs as an adult.  The rudder tail it had to aid in swimming as a little nipper will drop off in adulthood.  Some really major and incredible transformations take place in frogdom.  That’s why, so often a frog tattoo is symbolic of immense and profound transitions within the owners life.  I’m talking about changes that totally change the inner and outer landscape of a person’s life.  The frog is a totem for people who have undergone such overwhelming transition. 

The frog is proof that transformation can lead to liberation.  How so?  Metaphorically, transformation allows the frog to walk in two worlds.  Through a mind-blowing self-evolution the frog emerges victor of both water and as an adult, it becomes quite adept at land life too.  This is also symbolic of adaptation.  If you feel like you are treading water in certain areas of your life, and teetering on the land masses of other parts of your life – the frog might be a reminder that you really CAN live both worlds…you just have to be prepared to make adjustments to make it work.  You’ve got to be willing to undergo major inner changes in order for your outer worlds to become more inhabitable.  That’s what frog tattoo symbolism is best at conveying.

Perhaps this kind of symbolism is what the ancient Egyptians were tapping into when they assigned the frog as a sacred symbol of birth as well as resurrection.  They had a frog-headed goddess named Heket.  She was present at each new birth, and exhaled the breath of new life into the nostrils of each newborn Egyptian child.  I think the spirit of renewal, transformation and adaptation is passed through her breath too.  She imbues a sense of natural revolution.  She puts new humans at ease with the concept of cyclical change.

Change is a common theme of water in esoteric symbolism.  A frog’s environment is mostly water, and so therefore the frog itself is associated with symbolic attributes of water which include:

  • Intuition
  • Emotion
  • Fluidity
  • Change
  • Purification

Frogs come in a myriad of colors, but we most often thing of green – this is symbolic of new growth, good health and even wealth.  Consider the color green, and those associations start to make sense: Green is the color of the heart chakra, which is connected to themes of love and health.  Green is also the color of new life we see sprouting out in the spring time – which points to abundance in growth and harvest.  Agriculturally, green is akin to income – green goodness means produce to have and sell.  In short, life is good when crops are green. 

Our Native Americans recognized these subtle connections.  They recognized the life cycles of the frog, as well as its watery realms and the color of its skin.  All these cues are symbolic in Native wisdom.  Mostly, the frog is symbolic of purification to many Native American tribes.  The Aztecs and Mayans especially linked the frog with rains – which equates to agricultural success in that region of the world.  To them, the frog was a rain bringer.  Some legends even say the frog was a rain-maker.  And so, the frog in this light would be symbolic of life – specifically, a symbol of the continutation of life.

In China and Japan the frog is considered good luck.  My friend Cinchy is from a Japanese family, and she got a frog tattoo as a symbol of good luck with her business – especially as she travels the world.  In her native country, the frog is said to be a companion to world-travelers, and will give travelers the best of luck in all their journeys.  If you do a lot of traveling (especially travel by water), and want a symbol of protection during travel – a frog tattoo might be a good one for you.

These are just some thought I’ve thrown out about frog tattoo symbolism.

I’ve written more about frog symbolism, and these thoughts might help you as you investigate the meaning of frogs for you next tattoo:

You can catch the full article on Frog Symbolism here

Posted in Amphibian Tattoos, Animal Tattoos, Egyptian Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Oriental Tattoos, Personal Observations, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

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

Posted in Animal Tattoos, Astrological Tattoos, Celtic Tattoos, Egyptian Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Mammal Tattoos, Oriental Tattoos, Personal Observations, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | 1 Response »
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Anchor Tattoo Meaning

Friday, February 26th, 2010

 

Anchor Tattoo Meaning

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 | 1 Response »
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Sun Tattoo Meanings

Tuesday, January 19th, 2010

Sun Tattoo Meanings

Sun Tattoo Meanings

Sun Tattoo Meanings
at-a-glance:

  • Energy
  • Warmth
  • Vitality
  • Unification
  • Radiance
  • Spirit
  • Power
  • Focus
  • Abundance
  • Rejuvenation
  • Growth
  • Radiance
  • Illumination
  • Enlightenment
  • Glory
  • Strength
  • Divinity
  • Masculinity
  • Dominance
  • Wealth
  • Seasons/Time/Cycles
  • God

The sun is a provisioner of life.  Think about it, centuries before the advent of electricity, the sun predicted human cycles of life, availability of food, and therefore was a symbol of general well-being.

It still serves these purposes for the less technologically inclined cultures, and certainly this sense of well-being has not changed in the plant and animal king/queendoms.

In this line of thought, the sun is symbolic of productivity, vitality, energy and the ability to sustain vibrancy.  Are you a natural cheerleader?  Do you easily energize others? Are you able to project your passion as brightly as the sun and inspire others along the way?  If so, a sun tattoo might be a great way to convey these gifts.

The sun is the male (yang) counterpart to feminine moon.  It has a dynamic brilliance that is undeniable.  In generalized symbolic terms the sun represents an outgoing, radiant behavior.

Are you a leader?  Do you provide for your tribe or clan?  Are you always buoying, supporting and shining a light of clarity out for others to see?  If so, a sun tattoo may really resonate with you.

In early cultures, and even in certain spectrums of worship today, the sun is a representative of the divine.  In its male form, it was known as a god with very dominating, commanding, forceful influences. 

As a spiritual symbol, the sun is symbolic of consistency on our spiritual walk.  It also reminds us of our ability to radiate with the power of essential, spiritual beatitudes (truth, love, patience, compassion, etc).  The sun is also an icon of illumination and enlightenment in spiritual symbolism.  Is your spiritual evolution a primary focus in your life right now?  These sun tattoo meanings may brighten your objectives in a permanent way.

The sun has a very dynamic, vibrant personality and so those of you who lean to the sun tattoo may mimic this kind of active, energetic behavior.  If you were born under the sun signs of Aries, Leo and Sagittarius you may also gravitate to sun tattoos as these astrological signs are associated with the element of fire. 

For thousands of years the sun has featured prominently in the human consciousness.  This makes it “numero uno” in symbolism and so attributions of unification, solidarity, centering and singular view play a big part in sun tattoo meanings.  The sun sits in a throne in the center of our solar system – this makes it a prime focal point.  If you have something in your life that is central, perhaps a sun tattoo can convey this importance. 

In all cases, we all revolve around the sun, so its symbolism is going to be gargantuan and blindingly spectacular.

If you need more information on sun symbolism, like how various cultures viewed the sun as a symbol of life, strength and power…check out my other pages on the sun:

Sun Symbolism

Fire Symbolism

Native American Sun Symbols

Sun Animal Totems

Sun Yantras

Sun Symbolism in the Tarot

Posted in Alchemy Tattoos, Astrological Tattoos, Celestial Tattoos, Christian Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Indigenous Tattoos, Mythological Tattoos, Native American Tattoos, Personal Observations, Planet Tattoos, Religious Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | 1 Response »
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

Posted in Alchemy Tattoos, Animal Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Mammal Tattoos, Personal Observations, Religious Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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.

Posted in Christian Tattoos, Good Luck Tattoos, Religious Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos, Uncategorized | 2 Responses »
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Cat Tattoo Symbolism

Thursday, August 20th, 2009

Cat Tattoo Symbolism

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: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Shou Symbol Tattoo Meaning

Saturday, May 9th, 2009

Shou Symbol Tattoo Meaning

Shou Symbol Tattoo Meaning

The Shou symbol is a powerful Asian icon that represents long life and immortality.  It is a symbol that comes from the Taoist philosophy which touts connection with Nature as the true way or path to enlightenment. 

This symbol is prolific in Asian art to denote happiness, harmonic life and longevity. 

The Shou tattoo meaning embodies five tenets in Asian/Taoist philosophy which are:

  • Nobility
  • Strength
  • Wisdom
  • Responsibility
  • Awareness

You can see the four corners of these tenets in the Shou symbol.  The fifth element is represented in the center of the Shou symbol – of the five tenets, Wisdom is held in the center because one must have wisdom to discern how to utilize the other four tenets.

Other pages of interest:

Chinese Symbols

Good Luck Symbols

Other Symbols for Longevity (Asian)

Posted in Good Luck Tattoos, Oriental Tattoos, Spiritual Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Horseshoe Tattoo Symbolism

Sunday, May 3rd, 2009

Horseshoe Tattoo Symbolism

Horseshoe Tattoo Symbolism

Horseshoe Tattoo Symbolism
(at-a-glance): 

  • Luck
  • Protection
  • Power
  • Safe journeying
  • Well grounded
  • Magic
  • Happy returns
  • Winning
  • Success

Most logically, horseshoe tattoo symbolism deals with protection because horseshoes were first design to protect horse’s hooves.

Over time and via thoughtful contemplation of ancient peoples (mostly of European descent), the horseshoe became synonymous with luck and protection to humans too.

A horseshoe tattoo turned upwards will symbolize good luck and protection.  Tales indicate all the luck is held within the curve of the shoe. Conversely, all the luck falls out if the shoe is depicted with ends pointed down.

But an upwards horseshoe tattoo is also lucky because in this position it represents the horned moon, or crescent moon.  In fact, Celtic and other ancient European legend has associated horses and horseshoes with lunar symbolism. 

In a lunar light, horseshoes are symbolic of: Magic, mystery, intuition and travel via dreaming.  Moon affiliated horseshoes are also symbolic of esoteric progress, protection whilst traveling by night as well as protection when traveling darker spiritual paths.

Interestingly, the horseshoe is a symbolic representation of Yoni, which in Sanskrit means “source of life.”  Yoni is not a term used in the Vedas to describe the origin of life, it also describes the human soul’s journey through life.  In fact (and appropriately as a horsehoe tattoo) early translation of Yoni defined it as the soul’s divine progress (ascension) through life.

On a more practical level, horseshoe tattoos also convey a sense of winning or success.  This is often a tattoo reference to horseracing, betting, and achievement in games of chance.  In this light horseshoe tattoos give the wearer a sense of unbeatable luck at any odds.

For more information to inspire your research on horseshoe tattoo symbolism, check out these other pages:

Good Luck Symbols (including more on horshoes)

Symbolic Meaning of Horses

Good Luck Animal Symbolism

Moon Symbolism

Posted in Good Luck Tattoos, Symbolic Tattoos | No Responses »
Tags: , , , , , , , ,

Meaning of Ladybug Tattoos

Saturday, May 2nd, 2009

Meaning of Ladybug Tattoos

Meaning of Ladybug Tattoos

Ladybug Tattoo Meaning
(at-a-glance): 

  • Protection
  • Happiness
  • Luck
  • Love
  • Friendship
  • Good deeds done

In Christian symbolism the ladybug is often associated with the Virgin Mary.  This connection comes about from the ladybug’s protection of plants (it’s a natural voracious consumer of pests in the garden). 

In Chinese symbolism the ladybug is very auspicous and consdiered very good luck.  Asian lore indicates if a ladybug lands on your clothing, your true love is sure to come to call.  The number of spots on the ladybug is an indication of how many months will pass until you meet your true love.

The ladybug is a common symbol of friendship because it is a natural helper in gardens, and works in harmony with nature (and gardeners).

There are several superstitions around ladybugs that enhance the meaning of ladybug tattoos:

  • Finding a ladybug is very good luck and is a sign of good fortune coming your way.
  • Killing a lady bug is (obviously) back luck.
  • Number of spots on a ladybug is suppose to tell how many years of good fortune you will have.
  • A ladybug landing on your hand is a sign of good weather coming.

As ladybugs are commonly red in color, this is symbolic of vitality, love, passion, heat and energy.

For more information and meaning of ladybug tattoos visit:

Ladybug as a Love Symbol

Ladybug Meaning

Posted in Animal Tattoos, Christian Tattoos, Insect Tattoos, Oriental Tattoos | 7 Responses »
Tags: , , , , , ,

« Older Entries

Installed by SimpleScripts