Sunday, January 30, 2011

Top Thirty Religious Tattoos

Getting inked for the sake of your religious beliefs is a large cross to bear, if you will.
It is a commitment that subjects the tattooee to more judgment and possible controversy than any other tattoo choice. Wearing your religion on your skin takes resounding faith, unshakeable conviction, and yes, balls. But it is refreshing and in fact admirable in these days of the prolific slut-stamp and lifeless tribal sleeve to see folks stepping out of the ink herd and choosing to physically profess their religious devotion … loud and clear.
Luckily for religious tattoo enthusiasts of today, the artistry of time-honored religious imagery has made leaps and bounds from our forefathers chiseling petroglyphs onto stone. Expressive, beautiful and subjective, check out the incredible artwork that makes up the top 30 religious tattoos.
Jesus: The central figure of Christianity, Jesus, aka Jesus of Nazareth, Jehovah, the Messiah, the Christ, Savior of man, the Son of God, was a prophet and teacher born in Bethlehem and crucified to bestow eternal salvation among mankind.

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Mary: Mary is the mother of Jesus Christ, and is also referred to as the Virgin Mary, the Blessed Virgin, the Holy Virgin, the Holy Mother and the Mother of God. Mary is especially honored in Roman Catholicism and is considered the most elevated of the saints.

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Cross: The cross is one of the most recognized symbols in the world. It is the primary religious symbol of Christianity and represents the crucifixion of Jesus.

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Rosary: Traditional in Roman Catholicism, the rosary is a set of beads that provides a physical method of keeping track of the number of prayers said, as the fingers can move along the beads as prayers are recited.

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Angels: In Christianity, Judaism and Islam, angels are believed to be messengers from God who are sent to guard over subjects (hence, Guardian Angel) and carry out the tasks of the Divine. Superior or higher-ranking angels are known as archangels; famous archangels include Michael, Gabriel, Raphael and Uriel.

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Crucifix: A crucifix is a cross with an accompanying image of Jesus’ crucified body. It is a principal symbol of Christianity and Catholicism.

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The Last Supper: In Christian Gospel, the Last Supper (aka the Lord’s Supper) was the last meal Jesus of Nazareth shared with his Twelve Apostles and disciples before his death.

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Praying Hands: The held-together, praying hands image is a traditional gesture in Christianity and Catholicism. This photo is from RankMyTattoos.com user Rod Fam.

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Krishna: While many Hindu groups recognize Krishna as the incarnation of Vishnu, some consider Krishna to be the Supreme God. Krishna is the speaker of the Bhagavad-Gita, and is often depicted as a baby or as a youthful prince playing a flute. Krishna is believed to personify the loving relationship between God and humans.

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Sacred Heart: A traditional symbol in Roman Catholicism, the Sacred Heart represents Jesus’ physical heart. The Sacred Heart is usually depicted as a flaming heart surrounded by a crown of thorns and bleeding. The crown of thorns alludes to Jesus’ death, while the fire represents his love for mankind.

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Scripture: Although “scripture” is generally defined as the sacred writings of religious texts, it has been traditionally associated with the writings of the Bible.

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Triquetra: The Triquetra is used by Christianity as a symbol of the Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit), but is also used in Neo-Pagan religions.

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Star of David: The Star of David is a six-pointed star emblem, commonly associated with Jewish culture and Judaism. It is named after King David of ancient Israel and is also present on the state flag of Israel.

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Pentacle: Neo-pagans, especially Wiccans, use the pentacle as a symbol of faith, similar to the Christian cross or the Jewish Star of David. As a representation of the elements, the pentacle is an amulet used in magical evocation, summoning the spirits of the four directions (with the spirit as five) at the beginning of Wiccan ritual.

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Triple Moon Goddess: In Pagan and Wiccan tradition, the Triple Moon Goddess represents the three stages of life: Maiden, Mother and Crone, as well as the three phases of the moon.

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Baphomet: The Baphomet was first depicted by nineteenth century occultist Elipas Levi as a symbol of harmony, redemption, and union with the Divine. A simplified version of the symbol (the Sabbatic goat) was adopted as the emblem of Anton Lavey’s Church of Satan in 1966. These two figures are now both synonymous with Satanism.

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Pentagram: Traditionally a symbol of a 5-pointed star, an inverted pentagram with two points up, often inscribed in a double circle with a depiction of a goat head in the middle, is referred to as the Sigil of Baphomet among Satanists. It is used as a sign of rebellion or religious identification; the three downward points symbolizing the rejection of the holy Trinity.

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The Devil: The Devil, aka Satan, Lucifer, the Beast, the Antichrist, Beelzebub, etc., is a fallen angel in Christian and Catholic tradition who rebelled against God and was cast down into the pit of Hell. The Devil is usually depicted with horns and a serpent’s tongue.

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666: The Bible’s Book of Revelation asserts 666 to be “the number of a beast.” In modern culture, 666 has become one of the most widely recognized symbols for the Antichrist, and a symbol for Satanists.

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Upside down cross: The reversed cross is traditionally the symbol of St. Peter’s refusal to be crucified in the manner of Christ, preferring to be hung upside down, as a gesture of humility. In modern times, the reversed cross is most commonly associated with Satanism and a rejection of the Christian doctrine.

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Brahma: Brahma is regarded as the creator of the universe in Hinduism, and was believed to be self-born in the lotus flower which grew from the navel of Vishnu. Brahma is traditionally depicted with four heads, four faces and four arms, representing the four directions.

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Shiva: Shiva, the God of destruction, is the supreme God in the Shaiva tradition of Hinduism. He is generally represented as immersed in deep meditation, and has a third eye. Shiva is often depicted as blue, referring to when he drank poison churned up from the earth’s ocean.

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Vishnu: Vishnu is regarded as a major God in Hinduism, and is believed to be the preserver of the universe.

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Ganesh: Ganesh is one of the best-known and most worshipped deities in Hinduism. Ganesh’s elephant head makes him easy to identify, and his reverence extends to Buddhists and beyond India. He is regarded as the Remover of Obstacles and Lord of intellect and wisdom.

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Buddha: Siddhartha Gautama (563 BC-483 BC, approximately) was an Indian spiritual teacher and the founder of Buddhism. He is generally recognized by Buddhists as the Supreme Buddha.

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Kuan Yin: In Buddhist culture, Kuan Yin is known as the Bodhisattva of Compassion. It is generally accepted that Kuan Yin originated as the SanskritAvalokiteśvara, which is her male form.

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Yin and Yang: Although found throughout Chinese culture, the Yin and Yang symbols are often associated with Taoism, as they represent the dynamic force of the Tao – two energies constantly interacting with each another: the sun and the moon, femininity and masculinity, birth and death, etc.

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Rastafari: Rastafarianism isa religious-cultural movement that began in the 1930′s in Jamaica as a reaction to the European colonialism and slavery of Africans. Central themes of the religion attempt to explain the future of the African race by looking to Ethiopia for an African King.

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Atheist: Atheism is defined as the disbelief that deities exist and/or the lack of belief in gods.

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Darwinian Fish: Charles Robert Darwin (1809 -1882) was an English naturalist who taught that all species of life have evolved over time from common ancestors through the process he termed natural selection. His theory of natural selection came to be known as the primary explanation of evolution in the 1930′s, and now forms the basis of modern evolutionary theory.

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Good vs. Evil Duality: These images represent religious duality.
Jesus/Satan:

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Mary/Evil Mary:

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Angel/Devil tattoo from RankMyTattoo user DeadGirl666

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Whether denying the existence of God(s), altering the perception of God(s), or embracing God(s), religious tattoos encapsulate a personal and cultural honor that no other artwork can match.

Cheryl Cole Tattos

Cheryl Ann Cole (aka Tweedy, born June 30, 1983) is a British singer and member of the band Girls Aloud. As part of Girls Aloud and as a featuring artist, Cole has had 21 UK Top Ten singles. In 2008, Cole became a judge on the British reality TV show The X Factor.

She is married to the Chelsea and England football player Ashley Cole. Cole was voted "World's Sexiest Woman 2009" by the readers of men's magazine FHM.






Top 50 Most Popular Tattoo Designs

Out of hundreds and thousands of tattoo designs the world has produced, there are few that stand out and continue to ink their way onto generation after generation. Here’s a list of the 50 most popular tattoo symbols and designs.
1. Tribal

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This is the most requested tattoo design ever. I am not sure why folks really want tribal tattoos in this modern world, but perhaps the contrast of savage design and the new-age body gives a certain level of charm. Besides, tribal designs are quite intricate and attractive, offering rich choices for the tattoo enthusiasts.
Tribal tattoos consist of an exciting array of tattoo design possibilities, ranging from the traditional tribal designs of indigenous and aboriginal cultures to the latest in graphic design for the ink-hungry body.
2. Star / Nautical Star
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There is something about stars that is very pleasing to the eyes. Aside from the fact that stars symbolize fame, guidance, and luck, these striking symbols create exciting tattoo designs that even celebrities can’t refuse. Victoria Beckham and Rhianna are two of the most well-known celebrities rocking star tattoos.
3. Cross

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The cross tattoo is very popular not only among Goths but also with those who want to express their religion, and those who just love how the design looks on their skin. The most popular cross designs include the Celtic Cross, Maltese Cross, and the Iron Cross.
4. Angel

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Angels are religious symbols that are believed to be winged spirits intended to deliver the word of God to mankind. They are considered higher beings and therefore a nice niche for a cool tattoo design. Angel tattoos are very popular among all cultures in various forms. They can also take the form of an archangel like Michael or Uriel.
5. Wings
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This is a tattoo design that is both magical and spiritual. In many legends and myths, to have wings is a reward given to those who have proven their worth. And aside from the aesthetics a pair gives to any design, knowing that it is associated with speed, elevation, and freedom is enough to make wing tattoos among the most requested tattoo symbols and designs.
6. Maori
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Of all the tribal tattoo designs, Maori is one of the most famous. Some love this tattoo design so much that they would even try to offer their entire face for the craft. Take a look at the Top 20 craziest facial tattoos ever attempted.
7. Dragon

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Dragons are symbols of power and mystery. Legends of both Eastern and Western origins depict dragons as creatures to be feared and worshipped. We can’t really deny the coolness of a dragon tattoo so that makes this one quite popular.
8. Phoenix

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If you think it’s cool for a bird to rise from its ashes, then you’re not alone. In fact, all of us are thrilled by that mystical act, yet only the Phoenix has the ability. The Phoenix is a mythical bird and the Phoenix tat is a much inked reality. A phoenix tat is also rumored to express one’s hunger for immortality. Don’t we all want to live forever?
9. Butterfly

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The butterfly tattoo is really popular among the female population. I have yet to see a guy with a butterfly tattoo, but I’m sure they’re out there somewhere. Mariah Carey really made this one very popular during her ‘Butterfly’ days. And it sure clicked.
A butterfly tat can represent beauty, metamorphosis, freedom, happiness, and fragility. And those are elements women can definitely relate with.
10. Fairy

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For those who like magic and magical creatures, a fairy tattoo is always the most common choice. Knowing that fairies have the power of flight and can make wishes come true, it surely is fun to have a fairy tattoo, especially if the design is elaborate and fanciful.
11. Lion

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Whether you are a leader or follower, a lion tattoo can instantly project an image of strength and leadership on any ink collector.
12. Celtic Knot

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A Celtic knot symbolizes the eternal and intertwined nature of the human soul. This tattoo symbol is usually worn as an armband. Whether you’re appreciative of its meaning, or you’re entirely clueless, no one can tell. Celtic Knotwork can look really impressive as a tattoo design.
13. Kanji

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There’s something about Kanji tattoos that makes everyone an instant fan. Every time I see a tattoo consisting of Chinese characters, I usually like it, despite the fact that I have no idea what it means. And most people, even those who own the tat, might be clueless of their tat’s true meaning. Well, as long as the people around you don’t understand it either, there won’t be any problems. Just enjoy the view.
14. Tiger

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Much like a lion, a tiger is the epitome of strength. The distinctive coloring makes the tiger tattoo a very attractive design. A tiger tattoo seldom looks bad. I haven’t seen a bad one so far.
15. Rose

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Dubbed as the most powerful and seductive among all flowers, who could resist the beauty of a rose? The quintessential flower of the West, a rose can mean a lot of things – beauty, deception, femininity, love, or even passion and lust. A rose tattoo is always something that attracts attention, and this is one of the reasons why this tattoo symbol and design is very popular.
16. Heart

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Oh, I guess this one needs no explanation. Who still hasn’t seen a heart tattoo? They are everywhere. From our relatives to famous celebrities, a heart tattoo has a place in everyone’s errr … heart. It symbolizes life, love, and passion.
17. Zodiac

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Zodiac tattoos are popular because everyone can personally relate to them. If you use and believe in the Gregorian calendar, your personalized Zodiac tattoo will represent who you are.
18. Skull

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The skull is a recurrent symbol in tattoos due to its unique appearance. Menacing and scary, skull tattoos can take different forms and themes depending on the creativity of the tattoo artist.
19. Flowers

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Well, flower tattoos are quite famous regardless of the species or color. Though the rose is a popular choice, others opt for other varieties and use them as design motifs.
20. Pin-up Girl

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Beautiful girls never go out of style, do they? And this tattoo design is proof of that. Pin-up girl tattoos are very popular among male body art enthusiasts.
21. Eagle

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Powerful and majestic, the eagle is one mighty bird. And a fierce eagle tattoo always rocks.
22. Crown

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A crown tattoo represents one’s sovereignty over his own life, feelings, thoughts, and actions. It symbolizes self-control, and serves as a reminder to use power and authority wisely. I don’t know about you but I think I just love the meaning of this tattoo symbol.
23. Sun

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The sun is the giver of light and life. Without it, everything will perish. Well, at least that’s what is said about the symbolism of sun tattoos. Nobody wants to perish, I suppose.
24. Anchor

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An anchor tattoo symbolizes safety, salvation, and hope. People must have been getting anchor tattoos in order to be anchored onto a safe and stable ground. In a world that’s chaotic and violent, who wouldn’t want such refuge?
25. Ankh

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An Ankh is an Egyptian symbol representing the key of life. I must admit I fell in love with the ankh tattoo‘s unique appearance. The looped cross just looks beautiful and definitely would look great as a tattoo.
26. Barbwire

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Barbwire tattoos are popular in prisons and other places that scream ‘confinement.’ However, thanks to Pamela Anderson, the barbwire tat is now mainstream.
27. Om

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The Om symbol is believed to be the sound of the “breath of God.” The symbol is placed at the beginning of most Hindu texts as a scared exclamation to be uttered at the beginning and end of every prayer or mantra.
28. Bat

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I’m not sure if Batman has a bat tattoo, but I presume he must, as bats are generally considered creatures of good luck in the Far East.
29. Swallow

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A popular choice among sailors, swallow tattoos generally symbolizes good luck and homecoming.
30. Spider

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Spider tattoos can be deadly images, with malignant meaning. Beware of women wearing spider tats. They’re black widows. Nah, just kidding.
31. Compass

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For those without a sense of direction, a compass tattoo might be the ultimate solution.
32. Cupid

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Crazy about love? Or ,you’re just a plain home-wrecker? Well, a cupid tat might do the trick of hiding your real intentions.
33. Cherubs

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These little angels are just so cute that we just can’t resist creating a tattoo design with them as the main motif.
34. Snake

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Snake tattoos mean renewal, taken from the snake’s ability to shed skin. They may also mean temptation and knowledge. So if you think you’re hot, then you will definitely look hotter with a snake tat.
35. Fleur de Lis

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This is a stylized design of either an iris or a lily; a very stylish and decorative tattoo. This symbol is associated with Joan of Arc and represents liberty.
36. Haida

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Haida tattoo symbols are among the most popular tribal tattoo designs. The bold lines of the Haida designs are very much tattoo material because of their complexity and aesthetic quality.
37. Sword

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A sword is commonly associated with valor and justice. It can also be magical in the sense that legends and myths often portray swords with magical powers. Add He-Man and She-Ra to the equation and you have a very nice sword tattoo to show off to your buddies.
38. Dolphins

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If you failed to ace your exams, getting a dolphin tattoo might help remind you that you are still the most intelligent mammal on the planet.
39. Dragonfly

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Aside from fairy and butterfly tattoos, dragonfly tats are also popular among women. They are associated with good luck and are considered as the power of light. Whatever that means, dragonfly tattoo designs can look really cool, which explains the popularity.
40. Fish

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Fish tattoos can have varied meanings depending on the design employed. They can be symbols of fertility or wisdom. The Koi or Carp fish are very popular fish tattoos.
41. Flames / Fire

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Fire is all-consuming and destructive but it can also mean purification and renewal. It may also mean change, and passion. See if your hotness factor increases once a fire tattoo is inked on your already hot bod.
42. Gun / Pistol
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Of course gun tattoos are popular in both sexes. Though initially they are worn by those who have served time in prison for violent crimes, they are now worn by those who think getting eagle or fire tattoos is for wimps. They opt for a more killer tattoo design and gun tattoos give them that need satisfaction. Check out 12 Killer Gun Tattoos.
43. Harley Davidson / Motorcycle

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The Harley Davidson motorcycle has been an icon of American freedom, popular amongst bikers and Harley riders around the globe. Here are 10 Cool Harley Davidson tattoos for your viewing pleasure.
44. Lotus

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Alongside roses, lotus flowers are among the most powerful of all the flower symbols. In many religious systems, lotus represents spiritual purity because of their beauty and their ability to grow in the murkiest of water.
45. Luck / Clover

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Tattoos are deemed to be powerful amulets and talismans of protection. At least that’s what our ancient ancestors believe. Clover or Luck tats then become popular to embody such belief. There is nothing wrong with hoping you win the lottery or the girl of your dreams with that nicely done clover tat.
46. Musical Notes

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Music lovers show their deep passion for the art through these attractive musical note tattoos.
47. Scorpion

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Scorpio tattoos are said to protect the bearer of the tattoo and ward off a scorpion sting or an evil spirit.
48. Yin-Yang

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There is a yin and yang in all things. One is said to be incapable of existing without the other. Yin-Yang tattoos are popular among men and women from all walks of life who believe in this popular Chinese philosophy. .
49. Dagger

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This symbol represents danger and betrayal. So be wary of a friend who has a dagger tattoo.
50. Love / Pierced Heart

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A pierced heart is a quintessential symbol of being in love. A love tattoo design showing a heart shot from the arrow of Cupid can also suggest penetration and physical love.