Cross Tattoo – Ancient Symbol in a Modern World
Summary :Tattoo designs borrow from all spheres of our life. A tattoo design that has religious bearings is the cross tattoo. While the cross tattoo did emerge as a religious symbol, in today’s world it has gone on to acquire more universal meanings.
It is a common notion that the cross has originated from and is strongly associated with Christianity. However, it has been shown that even in ancient times the cross was used by many pagan cultures.
The cross tattoo is a hugely popular design and while the basic structure remains the same there are various ways in which it can be changed to give a different meaning to it. Many people get the cross tattoo done on their bodies because they believe in its religious significance. However, the cross tattoo also symbolizes freedom and individuality, which is mostly why the youth prefer it. So, while a cross tattoo helps a person bond with his spiritual side it also allows him to express his uniqueness as a being.
With many options being available in cross tattoos it is important to understand the meaning and relevance of each before you select one as an adornment for your body. There are Latin cross tattoos that also show Christ nailed to it, or there are the simple and bare cross tattoos. Some Christian cross tattoos include the Sacred Heart. Others may have a crown of thorns along with the cross.
A popular cross tattoo these days is the Celtic cross. These are more elaborate and intricate with images of loops and knots. The Celtic form of Christianity beholds a strong link between the natural and supernatural and these designs mirror the same. The loops in the Celtic cross tattoo reflect the everlasting circle of life and the knots are an indication of the connection between the spiritual and physical worlds.
There is another form of cross, the Egyptian cross used for tattoos. Again the belief associated with this cross is about the essence of life. Tribal cross tattoos have flowing lines in black ink that are unique to tribal tattoos. The Gothic cross symbolizes the dark side of emotions and is a reflection of anger and pain. Based on this belief the Gothic cross tattoo will have thorns, barbed wire or a dagger passing through or encircling the cross.
The cross tattoo is versatile so that the young and old alike are able to see meaning in it according to their personal beliefs. Those who are new to the tattoo culture often opt for the cross tattoo owing to its simplicity of design. There are other people who use the cross in association with other images like, heart, names and so on, to give a different meaning to it. The cross is a symbol of hope most of the time but if used in a different manner can conjure up dark imagery.
The cross tattoo may owe its origin to ancient traditions but in the modern world it is widely accepted by all and considered a means to express their personal sentiments.
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