Greek Tattoos

February-4-10

Greek tattoos are gaining popularity today because of their rich history and culture. The Greek language has been spoken since the year 2000 BC. The current official language of Greece is Dhimotiki which is approximately spoken by 15- 25 million people worldwide since 1976. Greek tattoos are great expression of pride for one’s nationality and heritage. Greek tattoos are usually Greek lettering and phrases. Many English words have Greek equivalent which are fairly easy to translate. For the non Greeks, this kind of a tattoo is a chance to have a cool design. It evokes a feeling of mystery and people have to ask what the tattoo means.

If Greek is not your native language, make sure to double check the translation with several sources. There are various internet sites that have translation services for free. Popular Greek phrases done in tattoos are: Gnothi seauton (Know yourself); pestis, elpis, agape (faith, hope, love); Ta panta rhei kai ouden menei (everything flows, nothing stands still); kai gor hois allo meden, aute pareste (when all is gone, there is still hope); to pepromenon phugein adunaton (its impossible to escape from what is destined); nipson anomemata me monan opsin (wash the sins, not only the face).

Aside from Greek phrases, gods and goddesses from their mythology also make great choices for tattoo designs. Striking scenes from the mythology stories can make great tattoo designs as well. Zeus, the god of mercy and justice is among the popular choices. He can be depicted as an angry God casting his famous thunderbolt. Venus, the goddess of love and beauty is also quite popular. Venus can be illustrated as a goddess rising from the sea. Another popular god is Aries, the god of war and chaos. This god can be incorporated with other tattoo designs related to war and violence.

The Greek key also makes a great tattoo design. It was used by the ancient Greeks in carvings, pottery and temples. It can be used in many ways such as a backdrop, border or just by itself. This tattoo will look great as a wrist band. The Greek cross is another cool option. It is meant to symbolize the four directions of earth.