Sunday, October 31, 2010

Christian Tattoos

tattoo designs


Although many Christians frown upon body art in general, there are quite a few who believe that Christian tattoos are an enduring way to express their faith. Christian tattoos tend to depict significant symbols within the religion including crosses, scriptures and certain religious figures such as saints, apostles and even occasionally angels.


The vast majority of Christian tattoos feature simple and discreet symbols that are dogmatically relevant. One of the most recognizable of these symbols is the “Ichthus” — or better known in more modern circles, the “Jesus fish.” These symbols are usually quite simply done in black and feature two lines intersecting in a ribbon-like fashion, which gives the appearance of a fish. Some people like to use the Greek lettering, which translates into “Jesus, Christ, God’s, Son, Savior.” Another example of this style is the seven doves. The dove is an emblem for the Holy Spirit; in this depiction there are seven birds forming a circle around the letters ‘SS’, which stand for ‘Spiritu Sancti,’ and represents the seven gifts received by the Holy Spirit in Revelations.


Many Christian tattoos also feature a variety of crosses. A very simple cross without a great deal of ornamentation seems to be favored. However, the Greek cross (which has four equal sides, and occasionally has an almost three-dimensional appearance), and the Celtic cross (which is quite similar to its simpler counterpart, but distinguishable by the circle placed around the upper crossbar), are also quite popular. These two designs tend to have quite a bit more detail such as Celtic knot work, gem-like colors and occasionally flowers and ivy etched into them. One unusual idea for this particular design is that of the Triumphant Cross. This cross is said to represent Jesus Christ’s place of glory, whilst reigning over the planet. The image of this cross generally shows a simple cross firmly rooted into an orb; occasionally stars are placed above the cross to represent both the Earth and the sky.


Although Christian tattoos are meant to represent a fervent faith, they are also quite extraordinary all on their own. With centuries of art dedicated purely to this particular religion, you will without a doubt find something that will serve as an aesthetically pleasing reminder to you about the convictions of your beliefs.








Related >> Angel Tattoos, Angel Devil Tattoos, Angel Wing Tattoos, Celtic Cross Tattoos, Cross Tattoos, Dove Tattoos, Flower Tattoos, Holy Cross Tattoos, Jesus Tattoos, Praying Hands Tattoos, Religious Tattoos, Star Tattoos






Post from: Free Tattoo Designs & Patterns


Christian Tattoos


tattoo designs


Feather tattoos are most commonly seen featuring Native American designs or in the form of wings. However, these symbols of ascension, truth and a freedom of spirit can have many different styles. Most of these styles carry a significance of their own.


Feather tattoos can be quite simple and feature a large quill spread along the back, or up the side of a leg or arm. Celtic Druids often wore heavy robes covered in feathers. Each color had its own meaning; orange meant energy, purple meant power, red means passion and courage, while yellow means intellect and eloquence. In Christianity, the image of three feathers attached at the bottom represent the ‘virtues’ — charity, hope and faith — joined together. These were often shown as heavy silver signets. The gorgeous eye-like design on a peacock’s tail feathers has been said as both good and bad luck. Some people have associated it with the dreaded ‘evil eye,’ while others feel that it is a symbol of protection, as these eyes ‘watch out’ for them. Any of these feather tattoos could be used as a single feather, or a fan. Either the magnificent peacock, or the lesser acknowledged, but equally brilliant turkey tail feathers could be spread across the base of the back to create an intricate look.


Feather tattoos may feature many other symbols as well. The feather may be placed with flowers, with a pearl necklace wrapped around it (to represent delicacy), or even set to writing a meaningful poem. They are often placed amongst dream catchers, in armbands, or formed into the shape of hearts or stars. It may be interesting, as well, to place feathers in the eyelashes and hair of an exotic-looking female figure, or create the entire image of a person out of these billowy objects.


Many feather tattoos are meant to express a feeling of freedom, or even a particular pride in heritage; all unto themselves, however, they can create either a simple, yet meaningful image, or a broad and sweeping design that is certain to grab attention.








Related >> American Indian Tattoos, Dream Catcher Tattoos, Indian Tattoos, Native American Tattoos, Wing Tattoos






Post from: Free Tattoo Designs & Patterns


Feather Tattoos


tattoo designs


Many trees tend to invoke the image of wisdom, and a solidity that most symbols cannot even come close to. Tree tattoos are meant to express the same, as well as life, fecundity and strength. The tree has been an inspiring symbol to many people; this is evidenced by the array of stories and myths that surround it.


Oak tree tattoos are some of the most popular designs. These wizened old trees have long been thought of as sacred, and their image in tattoo art can be quite dramatic. Most people prefer to use a more realistic approach and use the dark browns and vivid greens that come natural to this tree. They may also use fall colors or pure red leaves and black branches. Cherry blossom tree tattoos are also quite popular, as these are a symbol of both feminine empowerment, and the transient nature of life.


Many tree tattoos are morphed into unusual patterns. Some interesting designs would be two trees twining together to represent eternal love, or the bark twisted into Celtic knots — as roots and branches meshed together were meant to show the interconnectedness of living things; also, the roots of a tree turning upwards and the upper branches down can form a perfect circle, which can represent the circle of nature and life. Another idea would be to place the image of the Earth becoming enveloped by the roots of an exceptionally large tree placed at the top. Since many trees are the bearer of fruit, it would also be possible to place the image of the wearer’s own family or children into either the tree itself or the fruit dangling from its branches.


World tree tattoos can certainly be an attention grabbing style. The world tree is said to be at the center of all things; its branches connect heaven with Earth, and its roots, Earth with the underworld. This design may require quite a bit of space, as you can show each plane in great detail. Every religion has its own image of heaven and hell, and each individual sees the Earth in their own unique way. Given these facts, you can create a beautiful and heavily intricate scene with this style.


There are many different varieties of tree tattoos available. Given their significance and natural beauty, they are certain to make stunning pieces. On the other hand, they are quite mutable, and you will be able to find a creative way to make this piece unique, interesting and entirely your own.








Related >> Cherry Blossom Tattoos, Flower Tattoos, Strawberry Tattoos, Vine Tattoos






Post from: Free Tattoo Designs & Patterns


Tree Tattoos

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