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Every Tattoo Means Something

Every tattoo means something to the person who has it but they also mean something to the wider community. In part, this is about the general perception of tattoos and tattooing but there is also the issue of what specific designs and types of designs mean.

Cultural and Community

Tribal, family or pride tattoos that express your inclusion in a specific community. Early in the history of tattooing, Northern Europeans would have their family crests tattooed on their arms. Polynesian and Maori designs depict not just family but whole family histories. Pride designs express belonging and freedom.

Group and Gang

Group tattoos and designs that represent your part in some form of gang or enthusiasm. Hells Angels would probably be the most widely recognised group that uses tattooing to express their commonality.

Spirituality

Religious and spiritual designs like the Christian cross, the Star of David or the Sacred Symbol Om.

Symbols

Flowers, astrological signs, cartoon characters; there are a host of different symbols used in tattoos.

Words and Names

Not just the traditional heart with a lover's name but also Kanji, Chinese or any other script that express your nature or your aspirations.

Remember that, whatever design you decide upon, every symbol has a meaning, not just to you but to the wider world. Consider carefully the meaning that you want to express with your tattoo before you make your decision.

Tattoos are permanent. Gang affiliations that may end in your twenties will still be displayed on your body decades later. Your beliefs may change, your affections shift to another but the tattoo will still be there.

Consider also the cultural sensitivities of others. Many Maori find the use of their tribal designs offensive on people who have no understanding of the meaning behind each line. Lettering in a language other than your own must be very carefully designed and inked; it's all too easy to alter the meaning of Japanese or Chinese symbols with just one misplaced stroke.

The more you think about the design and what you want it to say about you at this point the better you'll feel about your tattoo for the rest of your life.

Go to Finding A Tattooist

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