Given a dragon’s extensive and intricate symbolism, deciphering the significance of this serpentine creature’s tattoo is no easy task. The regal creature has always held a highly potent symbolic significance in most nations and civilizations. Some of its qualities are universal, even if portrayed in many ways. Dragons (and dragon tattoos) are linked to masculinity, knowledge, power, riches, and good fortune. Since there are many different types of tattoos with dragon designs, this post goes into great length on the cultural significance of each one.
Meaning Of A Chinese Serpentine Tattoo:
Dragons are the most revered beasts in Chinese mythology. The dragon served as the emperor’s emblem throughout the time of imperial China, when only he was permitted to create dragon renderings. Even the Qing Dynasty’s flag, which flew from 1862 to 1912, used it.
A tattoo of a Chinese dragon is symbolic of power, strength, longevity, and good fortune. In contrast to their western counterparts, Chinese dragons are not aggressive; instead, they are revered as protectors and beneficial to humanity.
Meaning Of A Western Serpentine Tattoo:
The dragon is associated with the opposite meaning in Western culture as it is in Oriental culture. It is typically a strong, menacing beast that should not be trifled with.
In Greek and Norse mythology, slaying a dragon was a prerequisite for a man to attain complete masculinity. The strength and bravery of the knights who battled dragons can thus be symbolized with a western dragon-inspired tattoo. Vikings decorated their heads with depictions of dragons because it was also a mark of manhood and a fighting spirit.
Meaning Of A Japanese Serpentine Tattoo:
The dragon, or Ryu, is one of the most significant beasts in Japanese culture. Even the first Japanese monarch was believed to be a dragon ancestor. Although a few Japanese stories include aerial dragons that live in the clouds, they are primarily aquatic.
In Japan, dragons stand for strength, longevity, and protecting one’s home, family, and loved ones. Japanese culture views the dragon as a protector and bearer of good fortune. As a result, a person with Japanese dragon tattoos is formidable and will stand strong to aid or defend others around him.
Meaning Of Celtic Serpentine Tattoo:
Celtic dragons aren’t evil or sinister, unlike their Western counterparts. They were revered as the keeper of the mysteries of the cosmos. They are among the most profound Celtic symbols because of this. These dragons have been depicted on flags, armor, and apparel for thousands of years.
A Celtic dragon design tattoo is associated with knowledge, harmony, and spirituality. The dragon’s body is typically shown with several intricate knots representing life’s highs and lows. Additionally, they are sometimes shown with their mouths biting their tails to symbolize the perpetual cycle of life and death. Celtic dragons’ intricate curls and knots make for visually stunning tribal dragon fusion tattoos.
Final Thoughts:
Depending on the design and culture it was inspired by, the significance of a dragon tattoo might change significantly. However, one thing is certain: underneath the beauty of a dragon-inspired tattoo, there is frequently a profound significance that tells a story about the person who bears it.