Snake tattoo meaning, which is described here varies significantly depending on cultural attributes, religious mores. The snake is a very common sign. It occurs in almost all cultures. This is what contributes to such popularity of the snake tattoo. The sign symbolizes:
- Life or death;
- good and evil;
- wisdom and temptation.
Snake tattoo meaning of wisdom
What does the snake tattoo mean? The first tale of the creature is found in Egypt. It dates back to 1600 BC The legend tells of a serpent of enormous size, which took part in the creation of the universe. It was immortal because it fed on its own tail. This legend speaks of understanding and wisdom, of cyclicality. It is from this sign that the understanding of infinity came.
Combination with a rose.
A symbol of temptation. The rose flower is beauty and passion, and the snake reinforces the message.
Also in this image can be invested with the meaning of the loss of innocence. A person with a snake tattoo with a rose seeks to overcome his negative qualities.
What does the snake temptress tattoo mean
Ancient Greece associates the image of the snake with the Goddess of the Moon. This feminine sign symbolizes knowledge. Other cultures speak of the snake as the guardian of the mystery of birth and death. Thanks to Greek myths, today we have a medical sign with a snake. According to ancient legend, Asclepius, who was the god of physicians, once saw a snake curing his kinsman with a bunch of fragrant herbs. He paid tribute to it and elevated it to the deity and guardian of the art of medicine. The West links the image of the serpent with biblical stories. In this region, the serpent is the temptress. It possesses boundless female power. According to the Bible, the snake seduced the first female representative of the female race to commit the sinful fall - to eat the forbidden fruit, and she had already pushed the man Adam to sin. America is filled with legends of snakes that live deep underground and are aware of the life beyond. They act in mythology as guardians of the human race. The snake is among the signs of the zodiac. It is believed that a person born under this sign, endowed with unearthly knowledge, he has wisdom and understanding.
Various cultures have chanted the snake:
- the Aztecs, as a symbol of fertility;
- the Buddhists, as the protector of motherhood;
- The Celts, as the guardian of secrets and mysteries.
Snake tattoo carries a variety of meanings. It can have both good and bad omens. Whoever the serpent was, all cultures treated her with respect. It was revered and praised. Even today, the snake remains a sign of power, wisdom and knowledge, voluptuousness and temptation. Very often the snake, depicted on the body of a girl, interprets her sexuality and femininity. That is why the snake tattoo is very popular among young beauties.
Snake, biting its tail
A symbol of eternity and immortality, infinity, the circle of life. The legend of the great aspid eating its tail, goes back to the ancient Egyptian legends.
Tattoo snake: a historical overview
It should be noted at once that long ago representatives of all peoples feared the snake, but at the same time and respected it. People valued it for its special beauty, grace and speed, the ability to attack even the largest enemy. They also noted its inimitable flair - because the snake could foresee practically every step of its potential victim and get ahead of it. Perhaps that's why the snake tattoo has become so popular.
Note! Snake venom was used for different purposes - for example, to cure certain diseases or to kill enemies. Often snake venom smeared tips of spears or arrows.
It is worth noting that originally the snake, despite its aggressiveness and danger, in general, was perceived as a positive "character". However, after the spread of Christianity, this creature began to be evaluated negatively - because the Bible says that it was the snake that tempted Eve, after which she and Adam were expelled from the Garden of Eden. Although if we talk about what the meaning of the serpent tattoo, it is the biblical interpretation is almost never met. But let's talk about how the snake tattoo was perceived in ancient times in different cultures and beliefs. Above we briefly considered it, but this topic is so vast that it deserves separate attention.
Teaching and wisdom
The serpent was a significant feature of the goddess of wisdom, Athena. The serpent was depicted next to the all-gods of health - Asclepius and Hygeia, his daughter. According to legend, the snake trained the healer to raise the dead. She skillfully crawled into the Garden of Eden and persuaded Eve to taste the apple from the tree of knowledge.
Tattoo animal on the hand, wriggling a rose or an apple, indicates that its owner is difficult to resist temptation.
Snake with a lion's head - the strength, good luck, agility. Tattoo reptile, crawling on a cold weapon, indicates that the person has suffered a severe test or disease.
Such a plot symbolizes the physical and heart healing and is often stuffed on the hand. A picture of a child with a raptor denotes will, harmony, heavenly life. A calmly crawling snake is a sign of wisdom.
What does the snake tattoo in ancient Greece mean
In the myths of ancient Greece, two characters were associated with these reptiles. This is the god Hermes - his staff was wrapped around two snakes. Hermes has been credited with:
- diplomacy;
- wisdom;
- cunning;
- He was thought to be the creator of the alphabet.
The second character directly associated with reptiles is Asclepius. He is considered the creator of medical science. We will not retell all the legends in which he is mentioned together with snakes - it is too long. We will only note that his main attribute is a bowl entwined with a snake. Considering all of the above, we can conclude what significance the snake tattoo would have had in ancient Greece.
The general formulation.
Directly snakes have opposite connotations based on culture. But you can standardize them a bit, then you get the following generalized options:
- simultaneously signifies death and new life, i.e., rebirth or rebirth;
- protection;
- mystery of nature, hidden motives;
- attraction, carnal attraction;
- the ability to wait for the right moment;
- spitefulness, meanness;
- intelligence;
- courage.
And you can also put meaning into the body art yourself, because they are dual beings.
Artistic tattooing does not lend itself to a rigid interpretation, in principle, like any creativity. Almost all of the common connotations of the snake are abstract concepts.
Snake tattooing in India
The snake tattoo is particularly respected in India. Which is somewhat strange, because it is in this country every year from snake bites die if not thousands, then hundreds of people. But according to the Indians, this creature actually created the universe.
By the way! You can not get past the Buddhists, who consider the snake the fairest creature. According to ancient legend, the cobra, opening its hood, hid the sleeping Buddha, and he was not affected by the hot sun.
Cyclical and indestructible life
According to Native American belief, when the heavens fell to earth, the serpent marked the two worlds and to this day sustains the clouds. According to the Aztec belief, the two leading omnipotent beasts, transforming themselves into beasts, tore the terrible monster in half. From one part of it they made the firmament, from the other they made the earth. The Greeks assumed that the cyclical nature of life and death fell on the shoulders of Ouroboros, the one that ate his personal tail every day, the one that later re-grew. This kind of snake tattoo symbolizes permanence and eternity.
If the predatory animal sheds its skin, it denotes resurrection, renewal, youth and longevity. A similar picture make those who reconsidered their life values and decided on a dramatic change. The image of the snake of fire is a symbol of purification and charming beginning.
Snake tattoo in Japan
The snake tattoo has an interesting meaning in Japanese culture. This creature here is perceived as a symbol:
- elegance;
- sexuality;
- all the positive qualities inherent in a woman.
That is why, in Japan, the word "snake" thrown at a woman does not cause a negative reaction. On the contrary, it will sound like a compliment.
Snake with a dagger
A symbol of eternal struggle, relentless courage and striving forward. A sword may be depicted instead of the dagger.
The snake, obvivshaya handle dagger, is a well-known symbol of medicine and healing. This image is often applied by medical professionals as a sign of commitment to the profession.
Ordinary people can use this image as a symbol of good health and longevity. Such a tattoo is a powerful talisman that can have a beneficial effect on the overall energy state of a person.
Snake tattoo and features of the drawing
What does snake tattoo mean for guys and girls, we will talk in more detail below, but for now - about some peculiarities of applying such an image. Having acquainted with them, you will understand what sketch will be really good, on what part of the body it will look the most advantageous. Tattoo with snake looks the most attractive, if it is made in a realistic style. Its essence is that the master carefully traces every single element, every single scale. The result is not just a drawing, but almost a photograph.
Sketches of snake tattoos can be performed in monochrome - they remain attractive and unique in any case. However, the use of color will also be justified. The following colors and shades look best:
- red;
- orange;
- gold;
- green;
- coral;
- gray.
By the way! It is also possible to get a beautiful body drawing if you depict the creature in the style of tribal, Celtic and some others.
Now let's move on to what part of the body to place the drawing. Of course, the snake tattoo on the arm is one of the most popular options. However, this may be due to the fact that the hand in general most often and "scored".
But if you use a search query "snake tattoo sketch" or carefully look at examples of works presented on our site, you will understand that the best way such images look on:
- chest;
- back;
- abdomen;
- ribs.
Tips for placing the image on the body
According to tattooists, the most appropriate areas for tattoos of this plan are the ribs, back, abdomen, chest area and thigh (thigh). Some believe that the value of the applied image may depend on the chosen part of the body.
- Back. The drawings here can enhance femininity and give a special magnetism. They represent beauty, strength, intelligence.
- Arm. It is believed that the snake tattoo on the shoulder posted girl vindictive and clever. A picture on the wrist or forearm, on the contrary, may indicate a subtle mental organization of its owner.
- Leg. As a rule, the thighs are tattooed by relaxed and confident women. Here, the image will have a sexual connotation. On calves and feet can be placed a small image of a snake. It is believed that tattoos on these areas are preferred by modest fashionistas.
- Snake images on the chest, ribs or under the sternum, may symbolize power, danger and purpose.
- Tattoos on the neck or behind the ear of girls are perceived by others as overt aggression and a sign of hostility.
Don't forget to study the master's portfolio before the session.
Snake tattoo designs: unusual snake tattoo designs
Also, the snake can wrap around the thigh or leg, literally flowing down it from the bottom up or in the opposite direction.
Pay attention! If you pick up the sketch correctly, with the snake tattoo it is easy to emphasize the slenderness of the figure or the relief of the muscles. Of course, much depends on the skill level of the master.
Do not think that only large drawings of a snake will be beautiful. Small snakes, for example, on the wrist also look quite beautiful.
Protection and safety
Indian hope said that the entrance to the netherworld is guarded by people in the form of snakes. If you just ask them for help, they will definitely respond. Rather, these beliefs and contributed to the origin of the various emblems: snake wriggling around the spike - nature conservation organization, near the rod of omnipotent Hermes - a symbol of trade, near the bowl - a sign of medicine.
Snake tattoo: what it can mean
If you decide to get a snake tattoo, it is better to know the meaning of this drawing in advance. Of course, if symbolism is important to you. After all, today there are more and more people who perceive the tattoo as a modern form of art and no more than that. That is, do not pay attention to the meaning, and the sketches choose only on the basis of personal preferences, the beauty of the picture.
But quite a few of those who prefer to know what a snake tattoo means. There are two most common meanings. The first is a symbol of death, but, at the same time, the emergence of new life. The second meaning:
- Sophistication;
- subtlety;
- cunning;
- wisdom;
- and even meanness.
By tattooing a snake on the arm or other part of the body, the person himself determines what meaning he puts in this picture. For example, the tattoo can serve as a confirmation of certain qualities of character - both good and bad. Note and the fact that the meaning of the drawing may depend on the gender of the person - for guys and girls, the picture can hide different characteristics.
Places to apply the tattoo
The tortuosity of the snake and a huge number of variations allow you to stuff it on any part of the body. It can be as small pictures, modestly lurking at the base of the neck, and huge snakes that wind around almost the entire body.
The place of application is not important. But a snake around the arm, like a bracelet, looks quite original. Only we should be careful and do not forget about the grip of the insidious reptile - you risk being completely in the power of the features and properties of the character of the applied image.
Snake tattoo on the arm: a variety of snake tattoos
Skull in conjunction with other symbols
The current tattoo machines allow you to make beautiful masterpieces from simple drawings. The skull can be combined with different elements, diluted with different techniques. A moody old-school picture is easily transformed into a modern unique tattoo that will stand out the owner from the crowd. There are several well-established combinations of the skull - with a snake, a rose and a crown, but there are no limits to the flight of fancy.
Skull and serpent
Skull and serpent tattoo sketch
This is a very popular sketch, which you will be offered in any salon. If the snake crawls out of the eye socket of the skull or wraps around it, then this tattoo is interpreted as a symbol of wisdom and immortality. The drawing is a reminder that knowledge and experience, even after death, will remain on earth.
Skull and rose
Ideas for a tattoo with a skull
This image on the human body can be interpreted in different ways. The drawing is built on the game of contrasts, causes mixed feelings. The main message of such a drawing is love, the intertwining of life and death, the end of the living. Depending on the position of the rose, there are two completely opposite interpretations of the sketches:
1If the rose wraps its stem around the skull bone, then the wearer of such a tattoo has a loved one who died. Such images are often accompanied by the name of the deceased.
2If the rose in the teeth of the skull, then it speaks of carelessness, the desire to live a drive and in his pleasure. A person with such a tattoo does not care about the future, he likes to live for today.
Colorful and bright pattern can Decorate with wings or a halo. This is an abstract picture, it does not have a specific meaning, rather, it is a manifestation of the individuality, imagination and originality of the owner.
In prison tattoos you can also see the composition "skull and a rose" composition.Most often, it means that a person met his adulthood in prison.
Skull and crown
This is a very common version of the tattoo among the followers of the Aztecs and Mayans, who believe in the deity of death. The cult of the Holy Death is very attractive to the poor outlaws of Mexico City, they put such a tattoo on their chests. The crown and skull mean that in the next life they will be much luckier, they can become the kings of fortune.
In the former Soviet Union, the tattoo of the bones in the crown is revered among ex-prisoners. A prisoner with such a sign has authority and aspires to power.
The raven on the skull
As in the case of the rose, this sketch can carry two opposite meanings:
- Destruction and death if the raven is black.
- If the raven in light plumage, drawn next to the nest, it is a symbol of longevity, a sign of wisdom.
Military emblems
Skull - army emblem tattoo
The skull is a very common attribute in army tattoos. Many brigades, regiments and units choose it as the main element for their emblems. Such a tattoo speaks of the belonging of men to these troops and emphasize the bravery and courage.
In the paratroopers can be found a skull in a blue beret with daggers in his teethand the Navy has many variations of the Jolly Roger. Ground troops may have crossed Kalashnikov assault rifles.
Other variations
Skull on Fire.
Many teens put the symbolism of courage and determination in the image of the skull. Guys, to look more brutal and threatening complement the image of the skull with knives and daggers.
Love for freedom, liberation from anything symbolizes the skull with tongues of flame. This image looks very expressive in a combination of Red and black colors.
Girls choose for their bodies more "light" and bright options for tattoos. Popular are Pictures entwined with flowersThey decorate the waist, shoulders and hip area. In these pictures reads the desire for eternal flowering, the proximity of love and death.
Ideas for tattoos with a skull for girls
The meaning can also have The "facial expression" of the skull. It can be portrayed good-natured and then it will be a symbol of good luck, a reminder that you need to enjoy life every day. An angry and sullen expression will be associated with destruction and doom.
A skull with wings is the emblem of the "Angels of Hell". In the catalogs of tattoo parlors you can find a beautiful picture of a skull with wings, but it is a well-established hallmark of the world's largest motorcycle club "Hell's Angels". The history of the club began in the 1950s, and now has branches all over the world. Do not stuff the biker label if you have nothing to do with this current.
The meaning of the snake tattoo in guys
In members of the stronger half of humanity, this tattoo can mean:
- intelligence and mental balance;
- courage and strength;
- kindness and justice;
- the desire for power.
It should be borne in mind and exactly how the creature is depicted on the body of a man - this also depends on the interpretation of the tattoo:
- A balanced, calm snake means intelligence;
- A snake wrapped around an apple is a tempter, a seducer;
- a snake with a crown, a sword - the desire for power.
There are many variations. Here, it all depends on the wishes and tastes of the man. Although, we must admit that there are indeed many people who first choose a picture that they like, and then only study its meaning. Or do not "think" about it at all.
The notion in the zone.
This reptile is ambiguous everywhere, including the zone. Basically, all the interpretations lie in the composition of the nail painting. The allegory of the skull, from the eye sockets of which the reptile comes out, symbolizes wisdom in successful thieves, and if it winds a cold weapon, it speaks of being ranked as a senior member of the hierarchy.
A reptile entwining various artifacts shows a certain rank of the prisoner and who he was considered to be in the zone. For example, a beautiful girl with a "creeping creep" around her feet does not bode well and is interpreted as a passive homosexual.
It also has the connotation of a bully with a particular cruelty and seniority. People in custody tattoo the Criminal Code, cut with a sword, around which the snake outline can be seen, thus expressing hatred of all law enforcement officers.
Snake tattoo meaning in girls
Now let's talk about what a snake tattoo can mean if applied to a girl's body. Drawing, pecked on a delicate female figure, can indicate the following character traits of its owner:
- sexuality and seductiveness;
- elegance;
- cunning and even cunning;
- dexterity;
- sharp mind;
- devotion to one's partner.
For example, to demonstrate a girl's dexterity, the snake should be depicted as coiled in a graceful spiral.
Pay attention! Loyalty to your partner, fidelity to family ties will demonstrate a sketch in which two snakes are closely intertwined. Or, for example, enveloping the heart. Such tattoos fill up not only girls - they can be paired and punctuated by both partners on the next anniversary of the marriage or relationship.
Let us note one more point. Representatives of the beautiful half of humanity are not recommended to prick the big snakes on their bodies. It is better to stop even at a small drawing - it will be enough to demonstrate the sexuality of the girl.
The meaning of the cobra tattoo
Cobra is a symbol of patronage and power. Even in ancient Egypt, the image of this snake was allowed to meet on the forehead of the Pharaoh, it emphasized his mighty power on earth and in heaven.
On the zone symbolism of the cobra tattoo is somewhat different. The animal, winding around a knife or dagger is the sign of a thief's trustee.
The image of a cobra with a crown on its head suggests that its owner has already taken revenge.
In the prison theme, the predator is a symbol of menace.
History of the natal drawing "skull"
Skull tattoo sketches
The human skull was found even in cave paintingsBut on the skin she moved a little later. The first admirers of such a tattoo were the Polynesian tribes. The Mayan priests used skulls as ornaments and intimidated the commoners with them. The first skulls were applied to the human body with a stick of split bamboo, which was dipped in cactus juice and fire soot. From the islands to the continents, tattoos came sailors and pirates.
The skull was also revered in art. In the Baroque period (Italy, XVI-XVII centuries) a genre of painting "vanitas" appeared. The center of this genre was the human skull. This trend was popular in France, the Netherlands and Spain.
