Symbolic Meaning of Scorpion Tattoos

The symbol meaning of Scorpion, much like its appearance, can be little foreboding. That is, if we do not have the inner eyes to see the beauty and complexity of its symbolism.

Below are a few facts on the symbol meaning for Scorpion along with some cultural history and background.

A summary of symbol meaning/associations for the Scorpion are as follows:

Transition, Death/Dying, Sex, Control, Solitary/Being, Alone, Treachery, Passion, Protection, Defensiveness

A potent message the Scorpion chooses to express is that of protection and/or isolation. In fact, they themselves are quite solitary - part of the reason why they symbolize In fact, many people with the Scorpion as their totem tend to have brief spells of passion with a partner only to end the relationship and spend long periods content to be alone.

The Scorpion will mate in an exotic, dance of passion and control. The Scorpion sex dance is one of beauty, control, and calculation.

The female allows her new offspring to ride on her back until they shed their first exoskeleton - then her offspring leaves her - all of them going off to their lone, solitary lives - another example of intensity in relationship followed by isolation.

Defensiveness/control/protection is evident in the Scorpion's appearance - which seems to say "Do not trifle with me." One look at this magnificent creature says "back off!" does it not?

As another symbol of protection - we can consider the venomous tip of the scorpion which numbs its prey as well as makes its prey chemically digestible for the Scorpion. Whether the Scorpion intends to eat the victim of its sting is irrelevant because its sting will most certainly protect the Scorpion in order for it to live another day.

In Samaria, the Scorpion is associated with the Sun, and ancient writings depict Scorpion-men guarding (protecting) sacred gateways leading to ascension, pleasure and enlightenment.

Death symbolism comes into play in Greco-Roman mythology where Artemis (Diana) used the Scorpion to sting Orion's foot, which caused his death. Afterwards, Zeus (Jupiter) made the Scorpion a zodiac sign among the stars.

There are some species where the venom is actually the antidote for its sting (like cobras). In Egypt and Tibet this is seen as an omen, and the Scorpion is made into an amulet - signifying protection and warding off evil. In Africa, the Scorpion is also seen as a healing sign - its venomous oil used for medicinal purposes.

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Symbolic Meaning of Peony Tattoos

As a tattoo design, the peony symbolizes wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. The peony is a potent symbol of beauty, of the fragility and fleeting nature of existence and the knowledge that acquiring great rewards comes only by taking great risks.

In traditional Japanese tattooing, certain design elements are often paired together, dragons, lions and demons with various flowers - in effect a delicate balancing of power with beauty.
Peonies, or "botan" are a flower symbol that is traditionally paired with a Japanese lion, or "Shishi". This pairing is called Karajishi, and the ferocity of the lion is tempered by the beauty of the peony. But rather than merely being a simple symbolic example of Yin and Yang at work, the peony is a powerful tattoo design element in its own right.

The Peony is a flower with a history of cultivation and veneration that goes back thousands of years. In Japan and China, the peony is a floral symbol with meaning on par with the Chrysanthemum, the Lotus and the Cherry Blossom. The Peony is regarded as a symbol of wealth, and remember in both China and Japan, stone lions are used to guard palaces and homes, temples and sacred places, so the pairing of the peony with the lion in tattooing is no accident.

According to Japanese tattooing tradition, peonies also symbolize daring, risk taking and the gambler's or Samurai's devil-may-care approach to life. A gambler's next bet may be his last, a true Samurai according to the Code of Bushido, or The Way of the Warrior, lives each day as if it may be his last.

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Symbolic Meaning of Horse Tattoos

The horse is credited with being a symbol of guidance and strength. And therefore a horse design on your body would convey your feelings of deep respect and fascination for these lovely creatures. Since tattoos are mostly symbolic, you should make sure that you get yourself tattooed for the right reasons. However, the horse tattoo need not carry any special meaning for the liberal mind, but just a ‘cool design’.

Chinese Zodiac tattoos have also become increasingly popular, as a result of which, the horse tattoos are a preferred choice of many. People born in the year of the horse are considered to be pleasant and intuitive. The horse tattoos represent loyalty, passion, speed, independence and beauty, all positive traits. However, you can select a horse tattoo design simply as a style statement and not for any deep, hidden meaning. The freedom of choice available to the youth of today, has witnessed many opting for the colorful horse tattoos.

The horse also symbolizes passion and free spirit. The tattoos could be sported on the lower back or legs, but the most popular area for the horse tattoo is on the upper arm. The beautiful horse designs are a major contribution to the magical world of body art. Depending on personal taste and style, horse designs vary. The tattoos can be worked in black, gray or any other color. However, before you go ahead and get yourself a horse tattoo, it is advisable to view the various designs online, before you make your final decision.

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Symbolic Meaning of Panther Tattoos

In Central and South America, Panther is associated with the sun. It is symbolic of power, guardianship, courage and valor. It embodies aggressiveness and power and reflect an ability to do a variety of tasks. Panthers are also brilliant swimmers and agile climbers.

Since they have the ability to sprint with great speed, they hold the teachings of quick decisive actions. Thus, those exhibiting panther tattoos also want to express the statement that they are strong and independent individuals who are not afraid express their opinions to fight for their rights and beliefs.

The panther is also symbolic of the feminine, power and protection for women who chose to have panther tattoo inked on them. They are representation of women as being gentle and loving with their children, yet fearless in defending their families. They also symbolizes rebirth, swiftness, cunning, perseverance, boldness, and beauty.

With tattoos being versatile in styles and meaning, you can attach different symbolism to it depending on how you can relate it to your personal life. The important thing is you know that you are making a strong and bold statement with panther tattoos.

Placement of Panther Tattoos

The black crawling panther is one form whose contours make it ideal for placement over the rolling and fluid musculature of the arms and legs. Panther tattoos are usually detailed and big so they can usually be seen inked at body parts that can serve as a large canvas. Aside from arms and legs, they can be seen crawling upwards or downwards on the ribs, shoulder blades, chest, back and thighs. Aside from the image of the said animal in action, there are several other variations for this style of body art. One is the panther head while some are the ones with tribal touch.

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Symbolic Meaning of Cat Tattoos

Cat tattoos, much like the animals themselves, symbolize independence, being quick on one’s feet and freedom. It can be a symbol of good luck or bad luck, depending on circumstances and has been both revered as sacred and despised as a representation of evil.

In ancient Egypt the cat was a powerful symbol of femininity and was linked with the moon. Statues of cats wearing jewelry were often placed in tombs of the deceased to watch over them. In Thailand the Siamese cat was considered sacred in temples and in India they guarded the temples of Buddha.

First domesticated about 12,000 years ago the cat was used for its talent in hunting rodents, which were always getting into the grain. About 4000 years ago the cat began to be welcomed into homes as a pet. While in certain areas of the world it is thought of as a companion, in others it was used as a mark of evil against potential witches. It is widely believed that one of the main causes of the Black Plague in Europe was due to the reduced cat population because of this belief.

With its keen sense of smell and hearing, the cat was often used to detect poisonous gas in the trenches during both World Wars and to detect air raids. Due to their relatively recent domestication, most cats can still survive in the wild if they need to, adding to the cat’s admiration as an independents and quick witted soul.

Source : www.museumoftattoos.com

Symbolic Meaning of DragonTattoos

This mythic animal has become a very popular tattoo symbol and is an indication of the popularity of Chinese and Japanese culture in tattoo design. The dragon represents the four elements and the four points of the compass. It is a reminder of the reality of life and that sometimes to bring birth and renewal, destruction and death must occur first.

In China the dragon represented the supernatural and imperial power. It was also in charge of the rain, seeing as how it liked to reside in the heavens. It was also able to shape shift, so it became entwined in many Chinese legends. In fact the dragon is said to be the ancestor of the Chinese. Japanese history holds similar claims as one Emperor claimed that he was a direct descendent of the immortal dragon. Since then the dragon has often been used as an Imperial symbol.

The dragon was also incorporated into some of the Chinese and Japanese beliefs. The dragon plays an important role in Taoism, and the Chinese involved dragons in their artwork and used it to display the protection of Buddha.

In the West the dragon often took on a darker aspect, often being associated with evil and wrongdoing. This probably has a lot to do with the serpent in the Garden of Eden. The dragon was often used as an emblem by warriors to strike fear in the hearts of their enemies.

No matter its origins the dragon is a perfect symbol for anyone wanting to display nobility, imagination, power and loyalty, not to mention a touch of magic and transformation.

Symbolic Meaning of Dog Tattoos

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).

Source : www.tattoo-symbolism.com

Symbolic Meaning of Butterfly Tattoos

Meaning of Butterfly Tattoos
(at-a-glance):

* Metamorphosis
* Beauty
* Peace
* Immortality
* Dreams
* Spirituality
* Transformation
* Thoughts
* Life
* Playfulness
* Tranquility
* Delicateness
* Fertility
* Love
* Intuition
* Resurrection
* Tenderness
* Appreciation

When considering the meaning of butterfly tattoos, I always think of psyche in Greek myth, where the term psyche is alternatively used with life. In fact, the term psyche is translated to mean “breath of life.” Further, Psyche in Greek myth is a companion to Eros (Cupid). All this plays nicely with the ephemeral butterfly symbolism of love, intuition, life, peace, adoration and beauty.

The meaning of butterfly tattoos may also deal with transformation because of the butterfly’s impressive evolution through life. Follow this path of metamorphosis:

* Egg (beginning/birth)
* Larva (dependence/socialization)
* Caterpillar (independence/awareness)
* Chyrsalis (withdrawal/death to a singular way of being)
* Butterfly (emergence/illumination/awakening/evolution into a new phase of life)

Pretty impressive, when we look at this amazing transformation with spiritual eyes. Indeed, if you’re getting a butterfly tattoo – it is a symbol of significant transition and change in your life.

The Japanese consider the butterfly to be a symbol of fine beauty and delicate feminine qualities. Geisha’s are commonly identified with butterflies.

In esoteric Christian symbolism & art the butterfly is an icon of immortality and the resurrection of not only Christ, but an awakening to the higher love each human holds in his/her heart.

In Celtic symbolism the butterfly holds similar attributes and represents beauty, love, honor. It is also a symbol for the soul in the Celtic mindset. (more on the Celtic meaning of butterfly can be found here).

In Chinese symbolism the butterfly is a sign of good luck, joy, abundance, health and blessing.

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Symbolic Meaning of Phoenix Tattoos

The mythological bird of fire is familiar to most of us, but perhaps not so well-known is in it's original meaning -- 'phoenix' in Greek means 'palm tree'.

The phoenix is said to live for 500 years. When it grows tired, it builds a nest of aromatic twigs, and then sets fire to itself to be consumed in the funeral pyre of its own making. After three days, the phoenix would arise from the ashes, reborn. According to Egyptian legend, it carries the embalmed ashes of its previous incarnation to Heliopolis, the city of the sun. The Egyptian phoenix was said to sing sweetly, and to dazzle with its plumage of gold and scarlet and purple.

Tales of the phoenix appear in ancient Arabian, Greek, Roman, and Far Eastern mythology. In both Greek and Egyptian tales, the phoenix represented the sun, dying in flames at the end of the day and rising each morning. Early Christians came to view the flight of the phoenix as a symbol of rebirth and the resurrection, leaving the old world for the new world of the spirit, dying and rising again, reborn. It symbolized the victory of life over death, immortality, and Christ's resurrection. Jewish legend describes the phoenix as the one creature that did not leave paradise with Adam, and that its legendary longevity is due to abstaining from the forbidden fruit that tempted the 'first man'. On Roman coins, the phoenix represented an undying empire.

Phoenix tattoo meaningsAccording to Chinese mythology, the phoenix is the symbol of grace and virtue and is second only in importance to the Dragon. It represents the union of yin and yang, and was a gentle creature associated with the Empress, who alone could wear its symbol. The feathers of the Chinese phoenix were black, white, red, green and yellow - the five primary colours. In Japan, the phoenix is found carved into sword hilts, and the image of the bird seen as embroidery on kimonos. Along with the sun, the phoenix is one of the emblems of the Japanese Empire. In Japanese tattooing the phoenix is often twinned with the the dragon, symbolizing yin and yang, the harmonious combining of the best of the feminine and masculine virtues.

North American Thunderbird designYou'd think that Phoenix, Arizona, must have risen from the ashes of some former town -- and it's true -- from the remains of Hohokam settlements. But North American Indians have their own fiery version of the phoenix - the thunderbird -- from whose beak lightning is said to flash.

Phoenix Inspiration Gallery - Click here to get inspired!The phoenix as a tattoo symbol is often associated with feminine qualities, each part of its body representing a specific virtue. Duty, goodness, kindness and reliability are some of the lesser known aspects of the phoenix. The flame images represent purification and transformation through fire and adversity.

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Symbolic Meaning of Peacock Tattoos

Peacock tattoo meanings
(at-a-glance):

* Royalty
* Vitality
* Sensuality
* Luxury
* Expansiveness
* Pride
* Nobility
* Generosity
* Immortality
* Longevity
* Love
* Watchfulness
* Sexuality
* Compassion
* Desire
* Beauty

Peacock tattoo meanings commonly deal with the impressively expansive fanning out of the male peacock’s tail feathers. The radiant blue of his body is equally impressive for tattooing.

These striking features make a big statement about the wearer of peacock tattoos.

It says: “I am marvelously unique, and not afraid to show it!”

Themes of nobility and royalty come into play from Chinese symbolism in which the peacock is an emblem of rank and high status. Indeed, peacock feathers were given to recognize impeccable service and honorable rank in positions of military office.

The peacock is a symbol of expansive consciousness in Buddhism. In this light, the bird is a representative of the all-compassionate goddess Kuan-Yin. The “eyes” in the peacock feathers are symbolic of the watchfulness concept - the Watcher in consciousness/meditative terms is the omniscient essence of the soul.

The concept of watching also comes into play in Christian symbolism the “eyes” of peacock tail-feathers represent the eyes of the church/Christ/God watching over the faithful. Esoteric Christianity also views the peacock as an emblem of immortality and resurrection (similar to phoenix symbolism).

In Greek and Roman mythology the peacock is the companion of Hera and Juno (respectively). In this light, peacock tattoo meanings may represent a regal status too, as its symbolic imagery points to the realm of the Empress and High Priestess.

The peacock is also a solar animal and so its character will convey attitudes like: Vitality, radiance, glory, stimulation, life, health, invigoration.

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Symbolic Meaning of Owl Tattoos

As birds of the night and birds of prey, the owl has been associated with psychic powers, the "angel of death," and the goddess of night. Greek, Roman, and Celtic mythology all have owls as representatives of spiritual influence, wisdom and knowledge. Hinduism uses the owl as a symbol of cosmic spirituality as well.

Native American religions and shaman priests have placed numerous spiritual associations upon the owl. The Cree believed that the whistles of the Boreal Owl was a call to the spirit world. If an Apache dreamed of an owl, it meant that death was eminent. Cherokee shamans looked to Eastern Screech Owls for guidance on punishment and sickness.

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Symbolic Meaning of Eagle Tattoos

Eagle Tattoo Meanings
(at-a-glance):

* tuan duwekity
* 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.

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Symbolic Meaning of Bee Tattoos

Symbolic Meaning of Bee Tattoos

Bee Tattoos Indicate Family, Social Order, and Cleanliness

Bees and their cousins have long been involved with humankind, both bad and good. Humans have collected honeycomb for tens of thousands of years, while the earliest death by wasp sting was recorded in 2,000 B.C. when an Egyptian pharaoh was killed. Offerings of honey and honeycomb are often found in burial chambers to supplement the dead in their trip to the afterlife.

Surprisingly the bee and wasp were used in early warfare, as records show that the ancient Mayans would throw beehives at rival tribes, while the Romans and Greeks used them as catapult ammunition. Swarms of wasps indicated divine retribution in the Bible.

The bee came to represent the soul due to its fact to return home over extreme distances, as well as fertility. Many superstitions surround the bee, such as killing the first wasp of the season in England protected you from your enemies.

Since bees are incessant hard workers the bee can represent diligence, respect for social order and cleanliness. It can mean hope and faith, and Napoleon used it in his regal symbol to represent family. It has also been used on coins of ancient civilization.

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Symbolic Meaning of Heart Tattoos

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.

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