Simple symbol tattoos

There are days when everything seems to be going wrong. You'll feel like there is no point in trying, fighting back and going on. There will be days when you will be reminded of all the bad things in the past and you'll feel like just hiding your face in your pillow.

But know that happens to everyone. What you really need is a daily reminder that life will get better, in spite of a few bad days. And what's better than getting inked? There have been movements like the semicolon project that have helped people fight their demons just because of the ink on their skin.

So, here's a list of tattoos you could consider for a daily reminder that it will be all alright in the end:

1. A semicolon tattoo means your story could have ended but it didn't. It stands for the awareness of mental illness and has now become a big movement.

2. You can choose words that are close to you and incorporate them with the semicolon tattoo.

3. Ampersand represents a broken infinity. It is to remind you that nothing lasts forever, not the bad or the good. There is always an 'and'.

4. The lotus grows in muddy waters but maintains its purity. People who come out of tough circumstances prefer this tattoo to symbolise their struggling phase.

5. If you're up for something more elaborate, go for a more detailed lotus.

6. You could combine your favourite quote with the lotus to make it more personal.

7. An arrow represents protection from all that is negative. Whenever life is pulling you back, just remember that you're the only one who can launch into something better.

8. If you're aiming for a smaller tattoo, you could opt for less detailed arrows.

9. Finger tattoos are quite unique in terms of placement. A tiny reminder to keep negative thoughts away is a good idea, isn't it?

10. 'Nirbhau' and 'Nirvair' represent 'without fear' and 'without hate' within the Sikh understanding. As tattoos, these two words will always keep you away from negative thoughts that pull you back to life.

11. 'Makhtoob' means 'it is written'. Whenever you find yourself hating a certain aspect of your life, just know that it is all written and the bad phase is just a beginning to a good phase.

12. A quote from Maya Angelou's poem, this phrase will guide you on your worst days.

13. Sometimes, you just need a daily reminder of this.

14. This tattoo representation of 'mind over matter' isn't just minimalist, it also gives you the strength of navigating through the matters that trouble you with the help of your mind.

15.  Carl Sagan said, "The nitrogen in our DNA, the calcium in our teeth, the iron in our blood, the carbon in our apple pies were made in the interiors of collapsing stars. We are made of starstuff.” This is a daily reminder that you are no less than a star.

16. This is a Viking symbol called 'inguz'. It means 'where there is a will, there is a way.'

17. Here's another Viking symbol 'chevron' meaning 'create your own reality'.

18. The triangle represents change and it will help you find peace in the fact that change is the only constant.

19. The Zen circle or Ensō is representative of enlightenment and strength. On days when you're going through a hard time, it will help you find the strength within yourself.

20. You can always customise your tattoos and this customisation of the Zen circle only enhances the meaning of the symbol.

 At times, ink can be our strength.

If you are looking for a new tattoo idea, why not try one with symbols! Many tattoos these days have meaning behind them, gone are the days where people go into a tattoo storefront a choose a picture off the wall. No, people, these days want originality and creativity when it comes to their designs. In short, they want a tattoo that has some meaning behind it, some form of symbolism. It can be hard at times to find a tattoo that truly has meaning behind it. Since the tattoo is going to be a permanent one, you typically want it to have some form of deeper meaning. It may be hard to figure out the right choice that you are still going to love twenty years from now. These days’ tattoos are seen as more of a work of art on the body; they no longer hold the stigma that they once did. Below are 79 amazing tattoos that have creative symbols to them:

1. Cells

This creative design may be a form of cells or something technical. It’s an unusual design however if you are looking for something different.

2. Viking Weapon

This design reminds me of one of the Viking weapons that they typically carry around. The bright red is a great addition to the tattoo as well.

3. Arrows

Where are the arrows pointing to? That’s a question only the owner can answer. Maybe you want the arrows to represent your own journey.

4. Geometric Designs

A unique design that is also creative. It’s quite beautiful and has an extraordinary design.

5. Triangles

Three triangles all joined. This is a great design that can be placed anywhere.

6. Matching Designs

If you want a meaningful tattoo design that you can share with your loved one, then try out this creative tattoo.

7. Dragon Tattoo

A fierce tattoo that could represent strength and toughness for anyone. If you want something badass, then this could be the tattoo for you.

8. Many Shapes

An unusual tattoo design that has many different shapes on the inside.

9. Nautical Symbols

This could be symbolic of your love for the sea or a particular trip you went on.

10. Triangle Design

Triangle designs within each one tangled in the other. It’s a really cool design.

11. Cool Designs

This geometric design looks amazing, if you are looking for a cool design that is sure to be eye-catching then this is for you.

12. 3D Look

This 3D design will really mess with your eyes. It’s a very creative tattoo.

13. Finger Tattoos

These small tattoos fit nicely on the fingers. They create a distinctive look.

14. Small Moon

This small moon is whimsical and fun. If you are looking for a small tattoo design, then this could be yours.

15. Straight Arrow

You don’t get much straighter than this arrow. It’s a distinctive design that is sure to catch some attention.

16. Symbolic Arrow

This arrow design has many different symbols involved in it.

17. Unique Designs

This symbol is truly one of a kind and an overall cool design choice.

18. Lines and Symbols

These types of tattoos are all about symbolism and are a person message to the owner. If you want a unique design, then try this one out.

19. Colorful Triangles

This sketchy design of triangles looks very cool, and the added color just makes the tattoo pop.

20. Floral Designs

A simple wrist tattoo that has a flower in the middle, a truly unique design.

21. Anchored Arrow

This unusual arrow design resembles anchor. It’s small and black, so it’s not a big commitment.

22. Eternity Anchor

The eternity symbol is a popular tattoo choice, and many people add different elements to it, in this case, it’s an anchor.

23. Colored Designs

This arrow design has a burst of green that really pulls the look together. If you want a cool design, you really can’t go wrong with these symbols.

24. Lettering

It’s hard to say whether this is lettering or a symbol. It’s elegant and more of a feminine design.

25. The Crow

I love this design because it looks like it was painted on with a paintbrush. It’s truly a work of art that anyone would love. The dark scratchiness of it makes for a really cool design.

26. Music Notes

If music is your life, then this might be the perfect symbol for you. It doesn’t have to be large.

27. Creative Symbols

This creative symbol is one of a kind, and it’s small enough that it can be placed anywhere.

28. Double Triangles

A simple design made up of two triangles, but it creates a cool looking design.

29. Creative Look

A great tattoo that not only looks cool but has a special meaning as well.

30. Small Symbolism

Tiny tattoos are great for people who don’t want a big commitment. They want something small with meaning that they can keep to themselves.

31. Witchcraft

There are many Wiccan and witchcraft tattoos that can symbolize your own beliefs in many different ways. This is a popular one, and it does fit perfectly on the wrist.

32. Circle

It’s rare that someone would just tattoo a circle to their shoulder, so there has to be some strong symbolism to the tattoo. It could be attached to a loved on or an event in her life.

33. Gem Shapes

This gem shaped design makes for a unique tattoo choice.

34. Multiple Designs

These symbols look cool, and a whole design was created by using the symbols over and over again. It makes for a pretty cool hand tattoo.

35. Colored Triangles

These are all the earth elements; we have the fire, water, and the earth. If you are one with nature, this could be the perfect tattoo for you. The colors really go well together to create this amazing design.

36. Swirl Design

A great design that is unusual and wonderful. If you are looking for something different, this one is pretty cool.

37. Finger Designs

Tiny swirl designs are perfect for the finger because they are subtle yet cool to look at.

38. Diamond in the Rough

Feel like a Princess? Why not adorn yourself with the most precious jewels. A diamond on the wrist will remind you that you must treat yourself to the very best.

39. Unusual Symbols

Small symbols in a row, sending their own message. They hold a uniqueness that not all tattoos have.

40. Circular Symbols

Another example of a circular design that has some impact.

41. Tiny Owl

This great design is topped with an owl, which creates not only a different design but one that will prove to be eye-catching.

42. Double Arrow

These two arrows have crossed into a moon sphere. It’s a great design for anyone that likes the arrow tattoos.

43. Eternity Symbols

This eternity symbol has the ocean waves on the inside of it. If you have a love for the sea, then consider this as a tattoo choice.

44. Dark Triangles

This dark triangle is surrounded by some other elements that bring the design together.

45. Strong Designs

This is a strong design that a tough guy would surely love. I love the strength behind the symbolism.

46. Zig-zag Designs

These V`s make up a great design that really stands out.

47. Cross Designs

A design that is both symbolic and down right awesome. If you are looking for a cross tattoo, then you will probably like this one.

48. Falling Down

This is a great design that looks amazing on the back of the neck.

49. Personal Message

If you are looking for a tattoo that only means something to you, then choose a symbol like this one. No one else needs to know the message behind it.

50. Greek Letters

Create your own personal message by using Greek letters, and speak your truth to the world.

51. Always

A symbol combined with the word Always sends a strong message.

52. Labyrinth 

This tattoo design resembles a maze, and it looks awesome.

53. Symbolic Designs

I love this design; it’s so creative. If you want something amazing, then try this one out. A great design with a cute message at the bottom.

54.Bracelet Tattoos

This tattoo is one that we haven’t seen in awhile. It’s the armband tattoo, and it can be any type of symbol.

55. Lotus Flower

This purple lotus flower is rather extraordinary. I love the coloring involved, and the design is so cool. If you are looking for something that will catch someone’s eye, then this is it.

56. X Marks the Spot

This great design is rather awesome because it’s strong and shows a toughness to the person that owns it.

57. Cool Tattoos

A great design that looks awesome. It can be for show or left hidden in that spot.

58. Create a Design

A small design that is so unique that people will comment on it despite the size.

59. Geometric Love

A leaf made out of geometric shapes. You can’t get a much cooler design than the ones made from shapes. They are custom and original.

60. Great Designs

Another great example of a tattoo made with unique shapes. I love this design and the shading it has.

61. One Triangle

One triangle to make a statement on your wrist.

62. Elegant Designs

A great design that’s elegant and small enough to keep to yourself.

63. The Bow

This bicep tattoo looks like a bow or even a pine; it’s hard to say, but it’s a cool design.

64. Tricep Tattoo

Plenty of triangles for this tattoo design and they fall along the tricep.

65. Good and Evil

This tattoo symbolizes the struggle we have between our dark side and out light. There is a lot of great detail in this tattoo and some symbolism towards our internal struggle.

66. Chemistry Message

This symbol is intricate and detailed. It’s so delicate that it looks like it could be touched and destroyed easily. A great tattoo if you want something awesome.

67. Double X

These two x’s are attached and what does it mean? I’m not sure, but there is something sexy about this little wrist tattoo.

68. Just a Flower 

Just one flower sitting in the middle of the wrist.

69. Colors

These symbols are all in a row and very colorful together. Each symbol is a different color.

70. Colored Mountain

This mountain tattoo is broken up into three parts that are each a different color.

71. Symbols

Another great tattoo design that is just a symbol that can be placed anywhere.

72. The Lightning Bolt

These shapes are all brought together with a lightning bolt in the middle. It’s a very creative design that is sure to make anyone happy. If you want something different, this could be the tattoo for you.

73. Arrows

Another great arrow tattoo. These are very popular right now because they typically make for a very cool design. These are great tattoos that can be placed anywhere.

74. Forks in the Road

This tattoo could be symbolic of the many forks in the road that lead to our true destination in life. It could mean many different things, but it’s a great tattoo design, and it could go anywhere.

75. Wiccan Star

A great tattoo design that can be left hidden or brought out for show. It’s a dark tattoo that doesn’t need any color to be cool.

76. Show me the Way

A great tattoo that is sure to bring you joy because it’s such an incredible design. If you are looking for an arrow tattoo then why not use a nautical one that can point towards a person you love or to a destination that you want to remember.

77. Wings

A great tattoo design that can be put on both legs to match. A great tattoo that is sure to catch the eye.

78. Pointing Down

A great tattoo that is pointing somewhere important and only you know where.

79. Heart Shaped

This is a sweet design if you are looking for a more feminine design.

These are all great tattoo designs that you are sure to love. Pick one and then find a reputable tattoo artist to create it for you. We hope you enjoyed the article. Comment on your favorite tattoo designs below.

Good things come in the smallest packages, they say. The best perfumes come in small bottles, the finest jewels come in small boxes, among other things. The huge value of small things also extends to tattoos. A simple, small, or delicate tattoo can speak volumes about your character, your emotions, and things you hold close to your heart. Small tattoos have a major significance but are also practical. They are ideal for people who want to get a tattoo but would like it to be subtle.

Small Tattoos with Big Meanings

Since a tattoo is meant to stay with you forever and it’s always good to opt for something relatable, this ultimate guide focuses on small tattoos with big meanings. Scroll down to check them out.

1. Crescent moon tattoo

The Crescent moon tattoo represents fertility and motherhood, but it also has many other meanings. For instance, a crescent moon can stand for creativity, growth, and manifestation. Many people opt for a crescent moon tattoo to depict a new phase in life. If you’re opening a new chapter in life, crescent moon ink is a great way to represent it.

Not all people get this tattoo because they find its symbolism relatable. Some opt for this type of body art just because they love crescent moons. Moon lovers will absolutely adore this small, elegant, and so powerful tattoo.

The best thing about crescent moons is that you can get a fine line tattoo, black and grey ink, multicolor tattoo, options are endless. Since it’s subtle and elegant, the crescent moon looks great on the neck, fingers, wrists, ankles, and other body parts. Versatility is always a good thing.

2. Sun tattoo

Rise and shine.

Sunny days make us happy instantly. There’s something about sunlight that brings out the best in us and we immediately become more optimistic, energetic, motivated, among other things.

We associate the sun with positive vibes and that’s exactly what a tattoo with this image represents. A sun tattoo symbolizes light and truth. For instance, you may opt for a sun tattoo to depict you have reached light, peace, and truth after overcoming hardships in life.

Sun tattoo also represents rebirth, a new beginning, new dawn. Whether you’re having a fresh start or want to pay tribute to someone who helped you in tough times, the sun tattoo is the right choice.

Small tattoos suit different places on the body, so you have plenty of options. Sun looks great in fine line technique, but if you want the small tattoo to be edgier, you can have its rays accentuated.

Also Read:

3. Wave tattoo

Wave tattoo depicts soul, subconsciousness, and emotion. Whether it’s a fine line or a more elaborate tattoo, the wave also symbolizes nature, the primal state, fantasy, dreams, and so much more. Wave can also represent independence, rebelliousness, and love.

Ocean waves are glorious and yet so powerful at the same time, so your tattoo can represent the same things. Plus, it’s impossible to deny the esthetic appeal of waves and their amazing elegance. This tattoo is usually in places where you can cover or conceal it with ease.

You can opt for classic waves, fine lines or realistic, but also add other images such as sun, stars, the moon, options are endless.

4. Paper crane

Crane has a special place in the cultures of the Far East. This bird is believed to bring good luck, which is why it’s known as the “bird of peace” or “bird of happiness”. Paper cranes, or origami cranes, became a symbol of peace and hope in Japan after World War II. It became a tradition for people to fold paper cranes as a sign of prosperity, good health, and peace.

In the tattoo world, a paper crane carries the same meanings. People get an origami crane tattooed on their bodies to represent joy, peace, protection, and prosperity. A paper crane ink is suitable for a person who is at peace with something or you’re hoping to be one day. Your paper crane tattoo can also depict longevity and good fortune.

So whether you find these meanings relatable or you want to achieve good health and prosperity, a paper crane tattoo is a good option. It looks wonderful as a fine line tattoo, but more elaborate designs are appealing as well.

Also Read: 60+ Best Bird Tattoo Design Ideas and Their Meanings (2021 Updated)

5. Semicolon tattoo

Semicolon tattoos are small, demure, and easy to conceal when (or if) necessary. When an author uses a semicolon it means they could have chosen to end the sentence but decided not to.

In this case, you are the author and you’re writing your book. The book of life! Life can be difficult and brings many challenges your way. Sometimes it seems you just want to give up, but decide to go on. A semicolon tattoo can represent your tough, resilient, and persuasive spirit. You’re a fighter who never wants to give up.

Semicolon tattoos are also used to change the stigma surrounding suicide. This type of imagery is used to show solidarity against suicide, addiction, depression, and other mental health problems. Many add little wings next to a semicolon to create an image of a butterfly.

You may want to go for a semicolon tattoo to show off how strong and resilient you are, whether you’re overcoming a mental health illness or you have faced other hardships in life. Semicolon ink is also a good way to show support to someone you know if they’re battling these problems.

6. Infinity tattoo

There’s a reason you see the infinity symbol everywhere – it symbolizes timelessness, never-ending cycle, and eternity. The best thing about the infinity tattoo is that an artist can infuse the image with symbolism unique to the wearer.

For example, your infinity tattoo can feature date of birth of a loved one, or even a date of death if you want to pay tribute to someone you’ve lost. Infinity symbol also works well with flowers, quills, and other images that you find relatable.

Since we’re talking about small tattoos here, fine line or dot work are the best options. You can place your infinity tattoo wherever you want e.g. forearm, wrist, shoulder, foot, or any other area of your body.

7. Cat tattoo

Cat lovers rejoice! Take your love for cats one step further and get a cat tattoo. In most cases, a cat tattoo symbolizes luck, mystery, life after death, grace, and quiet intelligence. If you think about it for a second, that’s what cats truly are.

These intelligent animals embody grace and elegance, but they also happen to be mysterious. Mischievous and curious cats seem to have all luck in the world as they get themselves in “trouble” and get away with any “crime”. Nobody can resist those cute little faces and big eyes. Plus, we always say cats have nine lives, which refers to the “life after death” part.

Some people get a cat tattoo because of its symbolism, while others pay tribute to their beloved (usually deceased) pet.

Cats also work well with other images such as hands, moon, flowers. If you also want to combine cat with something else, it could be practical to opt for an image whose symbolism goes well with the meaning behind the cat tattoo. Or you can choose the total opposite and have two different images forming one perfect tattoo.

Also Read: 50+ Best Black Cat Tattoo Design Ideas (Meaning and Inspirations)

8. Inguz rune

Runes are the letters of the runic alphabet. They are also referred to as Viking runes. This type of alphabet consists of different symbols that represent a specific idea, personality trait, or other nouns. For example, inguz rune represents growth and development.

Inguz rune is a symbol for the “where there’s a will, there’s a way” approach to life and success. It looks like two XXs side by side or one on top of the other. Additionally, inguz symbolizes awareness and protection. Love, family, and fertility are also depicted by this simple symbol.

People usually get an Inguz symbol tattoo on their wrists and forearms, but since it doesn’t require too much space you can place it anywhere you want.

9. Yin Yang tattoo

In Chinese philosophy, the Yin Yang symbol represents the concept of duality. This symbol is ideal for persons who desire a balanced life.

Yin and Yang symbol shows that seemingly opposing forces that look contradictory to one another may be dependent on one another. In other words, one force complements the other. Let’s take night and day as examples. They are entirely different, but at the same time, they continue to coexist.

We can’t have a night without a day and vice versa – they coexist with each other.

Yin and yang tattoo shows darkness in every light and a little bit of light in the darkness. It’s the balance that keeps them alive.

Some tattoos show a classic black and white circle, while others rely on koi fish to demonstrate Yin and Yang.

Also Read: 30+ Koi Fish Tattoo Designs (And The Meaning Behind Them)

10. Ohm tattoo

Ohm tattoo is the perfect example of how a small piece of ink can carry big meaning. Or more of them! You see, Ohm (or Om) is the first sound of the Universe, or it is the sum of all sounds.

Your Ohm tattoo can symbolize a lot of things ranging from silence to oneness, creation, totality, and evolution. Ohm ink represents divine expression and the indestructible word (the truth), as well.

With an Ohm tattoo, you convey a message such as reverence for life or understanding of the universe and divine motion it involves. This simple and delicate symbol encompasses the whole universe and it’s ideal for spiritual and philosophical persons.

11. Lotus flower tattoo

Lotus flower is a popular choice for floral tattoos and it’s perfectly understandable why. Although it grows in conditions where any other flower would die, lotus is able to thrive and mesmerize everyone with its beauty.

Several meanings are behind a lotus flower tattoo. For example, in Hinduism, a lotus flower is a symbol of purity and divine beauty. In Egyptian culture, a lotus flower refers to the rebirth and origination of life.

Lotus has a special meaning in the Chinese culture too; it embodies marital bliss and feminine beauty. Western cultures associate the lotus flower with the search for the real meaning of life. Lotus symbolizes divine conception and reincarnation.

If you are looking for a tattoo that represents purity, spiritual awakening, and peace then a lotus flower is your choice.

Also Read: 50 Trendy Spiritual Tattoos: Deep Meanings And Sacred Ink Charms (2021 Updated)

12. Seashell tattoo

Seashell tattoo is usually associated with a feminine vibe and the ideas of fertility and rebirth. Bivalved mollusks symbolize womb and fertility, for example. But, a seashell can also stand for resurrection and good fortune.

The symbolism behind this tattoo also extends to the structure of the seashell. You see, the protective covering is tough and resilient. For that reason, a seashell tattoo can depict the shielding quality of love and protection of life.

Besides its great symbolism, a seashell tattoo proves to be a good choice for persons who simply love seashells. This tattoo doesn’t require too much space thus allowing you to place it wherever you want, but most people opt for arms and legs.

13. Arrow tattoo

Arrow tattoo represents achieving your targets and reaching your goals. Moreover, this tattoo also symbolizes strength in a certain phase of your life and direction in finding your way.

The arrow is not just about the goals and targets per se, it also stands for the fight and challenges you need to overcome to get there. Life brings many challenges ahead and needs to conquer them all in order to reach the goals we’ve set out for ourselves.

Some people rock an arrow tattoo to represent protection and defense against evil.

14. Diamond tattoo

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend or so they say. But they also prove to be a wonderful tattoo choice.

What we love about diamond tattoos is that they are symbolic to the wearer’s beliefs. People opt for a diamond too for different reasons. Some people rock diamond ink to represent purity, strength, or invincibility.

Others see love and faithfulness in diamonds. Additionally, a diamond tattoo embodies power, luxury, beauty, glamour, and wealth.

Considering the fact diamonds are basically indestructible, this tattoo can also show off your resilience and unbelievable strength to endure any hardship that comes your way.

Small diamond tattoos are usually performed in a fine line technique. Talented artists and good shading skills can make your diamond look incredibly realistic.

Also Read:

15. Heart tattoo

Hearts are among the most popular tattoo choices and it’s all thanks to their multiple meanings. The symbolism behind a heart tattoo can be as simple as expressing desire or love. That’s the most common reason people opt for a heart tattoo.

However, this piece of body art also depicts passion and friendship. Some people get a heart tattoo to pay tribute to loved ones they’ve lost.

Heart proves to be an ideal option for friends who want to get matching tattoos. You can get your heart tattoo in standard black fine line, or you can opt for red or any other color.

16. Paper airplane tattoo

You probably made paper airplanes when you were a child. They’re easy to make and it was fun to see them fly, even for a little while.

Paper airplane tattoo may look delicate and demure, but it has powerful meaning. This tattoo serves as a reminder to let go of things that are holding you back. Let the paper plane embody emotions or memories that have been holding you back, and just let it go.

For some people, a paper airplane tattoo is about courage and be more daring in life, especially when it comes to love. We are often scared of getting hurt and decide not to let anyone in our life, but it’s good to be open to new emotions and experiences. In this case, you can combine a paper plane with a tiny heart.

Additionally, a paper airplane floating around represents freedom, a carefree attitude, and creating a new beginning for yourself. If you have a carefree approach to life, a paper airplane tattoo is the perfect piece of ink for you. Or maybe you’re striving to worry less and enjoy more – a paper plane can represent your goals and efforts.

Tiny dots behind the paper plane demonstrate its flight. A talented tattoo artist can make a paper airplane tattoo look like a proper work of art.

Read More: 33 Best Airplane Tattoos Design Ideas (Forearm, Collarbone and Finger )

Sharing is caring!

A tattoo can be one of the most meaningful personal decisions you ever make. When you are planning your new piece of artwork, it is a wise idea to look deeper than the initial image.

What does it mean today? What has it meant in the past? What does it mean to you? Will it remain relevant to you in the future?

There are a wide range of symbolic tattoo ideas for men. From ancient religion and histories that set the foundation of the world, to the contemporary culture of today there are inspirational and significant options for everyone.

To facilitate your choice, here are the top 43 best symbolic ideas for you to apply to your next tattoo decision.

1. The Egyptian Ankh

In the times of Ancient Egypt, this image represented eternal life in the underworld that existed after death. Some have also taken it to represent the god of the sun.

2. Scarab Beetle

Another image from Ancient Egypt, the scarab traditionally symbolized creation. Because of its feeding habits, which involve rolling a ball of dung, the ancient people saw it as a creator. Today, it can represent the creative drive and the need to make your own way in the world.

3. Bear Tattoo Art

Because of this animal’s natural abilities, the American Indians saw the bear as an embodiment of power and might. Many other ancient peoples saw this animal the same way. In the modern day, it could be seen as the desire to return to Nature.

4. Wolf Tattoo Designs

Like the bear, this is another animal that shows mighty powers. As its nature indicates, the wolf has been seen as a protector and guide. It also embodies the ideas of intelligence and courage. Other meanings include the call of the wild.

5. Endless Knot

The Celtic endless knot, is full of historical meaning. Because it does not have an end, it was seen in the past as representing eternity, a long and happy life, the cycle of birth and death, and the cycles of the world.

6. Chakra Tattoo Depictions

Chakra tattoos are a wide and diverse subset of the tattoo world, far too vast to cover here in detail. Simply put, they enable energy for a vast array of applications in your life.

7. The Christian Cross

Symbols of one of the most impacting religions of the world, for a member of the Christian or Catholic faiths, the cross can be the one of the most meaningful symbols of all. For others, among many other meanings, the cross is a sign of contradiction, as its four arms stretch onward with no stopping.

8. Mjolnir: Thor’s Hammer

Dating back into the mists of time, the Thor Hammer usually signifies sacred things or making things sacred. Today, the symbol represents the entire religion of Asatru, with all its philosophy and ideas.

9. Dharmachakra / Wheel Of Dharma

With its eight or twenty-four spokes, this image has many historical meanings for the Indian religions. Many times, it symbolizes the virtues necessary to life. In non-religious contexts, it can symbolize a ship’s wheel, making it once popular among sailors.

10. Eye Of Horus

The ancient Egyptians saw this stylized eye as signifying protection, healing and care. However, since it is an eye, it can mean many other things, depending on the person. Overall, the eye is wide open for interpretation.

11. Fleur De Lis

A stylized lily, due to its associations with heraldry, France, and kings, it is a sign of opulent power. It can also be taken as a symbol of France and the pageantry of old. If simply taken as a lily, it can mean innocence and purity.

12. Phoenix

The mythological nature and history surrounding the phoenix has made it into an image representing rebirth, transformation, passing through fire successfully, and renewing oneself through difficulties. Popular culture has continued to cultivate many of these meanings.

13. Trinity Knot / Triquetra

Depending on each person, the triquetra has very different meanings. For Christians, the three points represent the three Persons of the Blessed Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, while the knot shows that They are One. Others take it to mean the three vital elements of the world: earth, air, and water.

14. The Lucky Horseshoe

Generally recognized as a good-luck token, the horseshoe tattoo can carry an identical meaning. In addition, the iron of a traditional horseshoe was understood to shield homes and people from evil spirits.

15. Vegvisir/The Viking Compass

Hailing from Iceland, this magical staff traditionally assured a safe passage through wind and rough weather, even if the bearer did not know the way. It is a unique symbol.

16. Ouroboros

Composed of a serpent eating its own tale, this sign has implications from long ago to this day. Originally signifying self-sufficiency, the cycle of life, and introspection, over time it came to represent alchemy’s secret rites.

17. Triskele / Triple Spiral

Springing from Celtic traditions, the triple spiral’s essential meaning is man’s competitive drive and the march of progress. This is because it seems to be moving. Competition and progress are also moving. Take man into account as the third element and you get the triskele.

18. Valknut

Intimately connected with the ideal of death in a mighty battle, the Norse valknut consists of three interlocking triangles. It symbolizes the ideal paradise of the Norsemen: a hall of mighty warriors served by pretty maidens forever.

19. Pentagram

The five-pointed star or pentagram has many meanings, most concerning dark matters. The Wicca and Neopagans use this symbol in their rites. In the Ancient, Medieval and Renaissance worlds, it signified dark magic and spirits coming to man as he called on them.

20. Om

This symbol has a much wider meaning that a causal eye might see. It signifies four major things: loving-kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy and equanimity. It is integral to the Hinduism and Buddhism ways of life.

21. Jesus Fish

An old symbol of the Christian religion, these are some of the easiest tattoos to personalize. The styles have very different meanings, but they generally come back to the main theme of self-sacrifice and all-encompassing love that the first fish sign signified.

22. Semicolon Tattoo Ideas

The simple semicolon is a powerful sign of mental health struggles and needs. Started in 2013 by a social media outreach, it signifies a breaking down of barriers around this area of health.

23. Peace Sign

Like what it signifies, the peace sign is eloquently simple and powerfully moving. Popular around the world, it speaks to the universal, deep, human longing for peace in all areas of life.

24. Symbolic Boar Tattoos

Wild and yet recognized, the boar takes on realms of meaning. Courage, strength, determination, and fearlessness surround this image. It can also signify the hunted, yet unbowed, trait of the outlaws and people beyond the accepted world.

25. All Seeing Eye/The Eye of Providence

The all seeing eye is very like the eye, but with a deeper meaning. A Masonic symbol, it displays ideas of God and Man’s relationship, climbing to higher wisdom, and the power of the state. Other interpretations depend on the images and overall design.

26. Anchor Tattoo Design Ideas

A symbol of hope and last resorts, an anchor tattoo has many predecessors. A popular design among sailors, old and new, today the anchor means much the same as it has through the ages. Other ideas behind it include loyalty, strength, and stability.

27. Arrow Tattoos

Depending on the style and arrangement of an arrow or arrows, this simple symbol can signify many things. A single arrow means defense of loved ones or things. Two arrows pointing at each other can mean aggression or war. A broken arrow communicates peace. And the list winds on…

28. Enso

Light, inner strength, and the universe are all packed within this little circle. Small and imperfect, it also reminds you that everything has its flaws and drawbacks, but they are all in the end worth the effort.

29. Fudog

Protective and courageous, this dog and lion cross serves as both a guard and a shield against evil. They often signify a courageous and heroic person behind them and their abilities.

30. Japanese Dragon

The powerful dragon contains the meanings of wisdom, strength, cunning and elemental force. These meanings make them a popular choice for tattoo artwork.

31. Koi Fish

Koi embody the masculine characteristics of determination, endurance against great odds by a show of force, and the desire to grow beyond your nature. A lesser-known symbol, it adds elements of surprise and discovery to the image.

32. Lion Tattoo Concepts

The king of the beasts, the lion embodies courage, royalty, power, and more. Depending on the religious or cultural backstory you choose, there are many different variations on the lion’s inner themes.

33. Mountain Tattoo Designs

Steadfast and serene, the mountain in its purest sense signifies a completed accomplishment. It can be over a human flaw, a journey finished, or a skill mastered. The deeper meaning depends on the tale behind the towering peak.

34. Octopus

Mystery, illusion, complexity, and diversity all entwine in the octopus’ slippery arms. Other meanings include an open mind to the world, the ocean’s mystery, and the natural abilities of the creature.

35. Olive Branch

From the very beginning, as some creation tales tell us, the olive branch was a symbol of new life, fresh beginnings, and a token of peace. When other elements are added, such as birds, it takes on new depths of meaning.

36. Celtic Shamrock Tattoos

Seen as the Luck of the Irish, the shamrock is a bow to that culture and perhaps to a shared heritage. It also has Christian religious meanings and, because it is good grazing for livestock, indicates prosperity and abundance.

37. Shark Tattoo Ideas

The king of the waters, the shark represents powerful stealth, impressive focus, and amazing self-awareness. A tattoo of a shark also symbolizes protection against the powers of the ocean, as the king of the seas is guarding you.

38. Skull

A skull image’s predominate message is that death is nigh. But that can mean more than what meets the eye. Depending on what the story is behind it, it can mean anything from living every day to fearlessness in the face of death and more.

39. Tree Of Life

As its name indicates, the tree of life symbolizes immortality, the cycle of the world, and the endurance of Nature. Many times, the roots touch the leaves, strengthening the imagery.

40. Triangle

The power of three, a shadow of the meaning of the all-seeing Eye, and, depending on the position of the point, masculine or femininity. And all this is within the three points of the triangle.

41. Yin Yang

Balance in all things, the beginnings of the universe, and the necessary tension between the ways of the world and the ways of men. The simple yin yang symbol captures all this and more in its circle of white and black.

42. Zia

All the cycles of four are caught within the sunburst of the zia. The four seasons, the four directions, and the four stages of life are just a few interpretations of this symbol.

43. Nordic Runes

Full of mystery and might from the ancient days, Nordic runes are full of power. As with many of the preceding symbols, this cannot be ever fully explained, for there is too much behind them.