irish tattoo

The art of tattooing is an ancient practice dated back to the fourth millennium B.C. While the origin of the practice is not known, it has been linked to areas throughout Europe and Asia. People get tattoos for a variety of reasons. In some cultures, they are a right of passage or display status. In other cultures, they are a sign of spiritual devotion and loyalty. You may choose to get a tattoo to honor a loved one, or to pay homage to your heritage. If you are Irish, consider a tattoo with traditional symbols.

Claddagh

The Claddagh is a traditional symbol of love, loyalty and friendship to the Irish. The design features two hands clasping a heart with a crown above it. The hands represent friendship, the heart symbolizes love and the crown signifies loyalty. This symbol is ideal for a tattoo if you are devoted to a loved one, if you want to honor your cultural heritage or if you simply admire the design.

Celtic Cross

The Celtic cross is a long-standing symbol of Catholic faith for the Irish. The distinctive design features a cross with a circle surrounding the intersection of the arms of the cross. Intricate Celtic knots adorn typically adorn the cross. A variety of stories are told to explain the origin and original purpose for these crosses. They are commonly used as grave markers and seen around places of worship. The beautiful design makes these crosses ideal for a tattoo that displays your faith and heritage.

Shamrock

The shamrock is an unmistakable Irish emblem. The significance of the plant dates back to the days of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. It is said that he used the shamrock, which grows in abundance across the country, to explain the Holy Trinity. He used each leaf to represent the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit while standing upon the Hill of Tara. The shamrock was also used as a symbol for Irish nationalists in the early part of the 19th century. Today, it is one of the unofficial national symbols of the country.

Source: ehow.com


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