Religious Tattoos
The French philosopher Pierre Teilhard de Chardin once said: "We are not physical beings having a spiritual experience, we are spiritual beings having a physical experience". Truly, nothing better summarizes the reason why people get religious tattoos.
The physical process of getting a tattoo can be a deeply meditative and spiritual process, as can be the healing process. It can be a way of celebrating and giving thanks for your body. Life is about experience – and there is no experience in life quite like getting a tattoo.
There are many different types of religious tattoos, and people get them for many different reasons. Sometimes people get tattoos to demonstrate the strength of their faith. Others seek religious tattoos for reasons to do with protection and guidance. Finally, some choose religious designs simply because they are beautiful.
In some instances, a tattoo design of a religious icon can even inspire a person to learn more about that religion. These are powerful symbols which make powerfully compelling tattoos.
Religious Tattoos And Design Ideas
A common religious tattoo among women is the rosary bead design. These beads are used by Catholics during a meditative form of devotional prayer, also called a rosary. These make gorgeous tattoos because they literally adorn the body like jewelry. They look great wrapped around ankles, wrists, and the neck.
Buddha tattoos are sought by people who practice Buddhism, or who admire Buddhist ideals. A Buddha is usually depicted as a man (or woman) sitting with eyes closed and legs crossed, deep in meditation. This symbol represents enlightenment. For this reason, the lotus flower (which is another symbol of enlightenment) is often paired with this kind of design.
The crown of thorns tattoo represents the mock crown placed on Jesus' head by the Romans before he was crucified. It is a metaphor for carrying a burden. People usually get the crown of thorns tattoo as a symbol of the Christian faith. They look great as armband tattoos, or as a thorny halo appearing on the chest or neck. They are also featured in detailed portraits of Jesus.
Popular Spiritual Tattoos
One of the most popular religious tattoos of all time is Saint Mary (also referred to as the Virgin Mary). Mary was the virgin mother of Christ, and tattoos of her image represent female strength and grace. Mary is revered by Catholics and also by followers of Islam. These beautiful, spiritual tattoos can be seen in bright colors of blue, red, and gold, and are well suited to the upper arm or the center of the back.
These are just some of the vast range of religious tattoos, symbols and icons you can use for tattoo designs. Because faith is such a personal thing, it is important that you find a tattoo design that is uniquely meaningful to you. Perhaps you could visit an art gallery to find inspiration, or go to a church or temple which features beautiful religious iconography.
Religious tattoos are a very special way of demonstrating your faith, so find a design that makes your spirit soar.
Religious Tattoos
