The most recognized and popular religious symbol in the world for many generations has been the cross. It has a very spiritual meaning behind it and that meaning may vary among different people.
This Christian badge of honor is one of the most requested designs for a tattoo, and also the most recognized religious icon to be seen around the world today.
Many people tend to use this type of ink to signify their religiousness and devoutness, while others may use this as a symbol for a forever reminder of a loved that was lost.
Among the Catholic religion as well, this religious icon has been used as a symbol of holiness. This tat design has been around for what we can tell at least the past two centuries.
This very popular symbol has been tattooed for many years among different people such as merchants, sailors, military servicemen and many others. Way back when, many thought this design may have also been used as a symbol for couarage and bravery.
Many other religions other than Christianity, have used this badge for many years to represent pride in their nation and/or honor to their gods. Here are a few other cultures and their meanings for what this tattoo meant to them:
- Celtic: The Celtic cross was also known as the Wheel or Ring in the Middle Ages. Many years ago this type of ink may have been used to symbolize fertility. Simply with the cross(plus sign) standing for the male, and the inner circle standing for female.
- Greek: The Greek design is also known as The Cross of St. George. This symbol was used by Greek Christians who preferred symmetry, so all four arms of this design were of equal length.
- Ancient Egyptian : For the ancient egyptians they used an altered design which they called an “ankh.” This religious icon was one of the most important symbols in their community. It was thought to stand for the man and woman god, Osiris and Iris. Also in relations to the Celtic design having to do with a male and a female.
Iron Cross: This design was the most famous symbol used by the German Military, was used by the German military to represent them in courage and triumph. Many people of the German ancestory tend to get this type of honorable ink.
If you are an individual who feels that you are a spiritual person or somewhat religious, than a cross tattoo(whichever one you choose) may be the right design for you!
