Tribal Tattoos, Designs, Pictures, Ideas, and meanings

Tribal tattoos have been practiced for millennia. Though the practice may seem different now, there are still many who get tribal tattoos for reasons which could be attributed to their quest to belong to a group. The striking appearance of most tribal tattoos has also been one of the top reasons why most tattoo enthusiasts pick this kind of design. As a matter of fact, tribal tattoo designs are worn by one third of all designs worn by tattooed individuals. Whether this kind of tattoo is worn for aesthetic purposes or personal reasons, there is no doubt that tribal tattoo designs are one of the most popular tattoo designs around.

History would tell us that getting tattooed was seen as a rite of passage into adulthood. A person is not considered an adult until they have the appropriate markings in their bodies. It was also believed that if a female can’t take the pain of tattooing, then she is considered as incapable in giving birth, thus, she is unmarriageable. If a male can’t deal with the pain, he is considered as weak, therefore, he won’t make a good warrior.

Many tribes were able to identify one another by the type of tattoos each member wore. To this day, identity tattoos are still unbroken. Many cultures and groups have similar tattoos in order to identify each other which is also a practice for the modern day gangs symbolizing who they are and who they represent.

Native Americans’ tribal tattoos usually represent culture, ritualistic beliefs and spirits while Polynesian symbolizes values, legends and religion. Hawaiian symbols are usually that of a god and usually represents protection or mourning. Maori designs are worn for courage and they consist of elaborate curves and distinct shapes.

Most tribal tattoos use animals as a symbol. The meaning varies from the animal chosen. For example, the Koi fish is traditionally considered lucky by the Japanese. The snake symbolizes medicine, healing, and power. Frog represents life, fertility and harmony. Like the fish, the bear is also considered as good luck. Other popular animal tribal tattoo designs are the butterfly ( spiritual immortality), and the eagle ( Spiritual growth ).

Tribal tattoo designs are usually done in black. The most challenging part of this kind of tattoo is making sure that it is evenly colored. Since tribal tattoo designs involve a lot of swinging arcs and curves, attentiveness is highly needed.

Today, tribal tattoo designs are still done for the reasons done in the past. Whatever the reason a person might have to get tribal tattoos, the history is in the ink. Choosing a tattoo is representing one’s individuality. There are thousands of variations of tribal tattoos, so it can become as personal as a thumbprint to a person.

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