Symbolism of Dolphin Tattoos

Posted on January 8, 2010
Filed Under Tattoo Designs, Tattoo Meanings

Symbolism of Dolphin Tattoos Dolphin tattoos belong to most popular sea tattoo designs. They are simple, neutral and exceptionally charming as this animal evokes only positive emotions being benevolent, intelligent and joyful. Some years ago dolphin tattoos were extremely popular, and they are still asked nowadays.

Dolphins are very smart animals. According to the research conducted by Adam Douglas, their brain is larger and far more complicated if compared to other living beings and even humans.

Symbolism of dolphin tattoos derives from these animals’ natural friendliness, playfulness, and quick wits. They stand for freedom, love, pleasure, nobility, salvation, speed; and last but not the least, they symbolize the power of the sea. They warn sailors about danger, and help the drowning. It is considered to be a sin and symbol of misfortune of somebody wounds this animal.

Dolphins mere mentioned in the ancient mythology where they fulfilled various tasks. They were an attribute of Poseidon (also known as Neptune in Roman mythology), Aphrodite (aka Venus), Eros (aka Cupid) and Demetra (aka Circe). And Dionysus (also Bacchus) used to turn drunk and impious sailor into dolphins. Moreover, he himself used to turn into a dolphin to bring pilgrims from Crete Island to his Delphian sanctuary. In Greek mythology dolphins also rescued drowning people or brought the souls of the drowned to the Bliss Islands.

In Christianity the symbolism of Dolphin is connected to Jesus Christ, the Creator and the Savior, to Resurrection and Salvation. As a victim Dolphin is often depicted wounded with a trident or in combination with an anchor that is a secret symbol of the cross. Dolphin with an anchor acts also as a symbol of care and caution.

Dolphin tattoos designs may vary greatly depending on your wishes and desires. A dolphin can be depicted swimming or jumping, and even combined with other dolphins. There may be as well Celtic or tribal dolphin tattoos. The former includes Celtic knots and shows a jumping dolphin, as a rule. The usual place for such a tattoo is above shin or ankle or on the waist.

Comments

One Response to “Symbolism of Dolphin Tattoos”

Fish Tattoo Meaning on February 4th, 2010 3:17 pm

[...] means danger, evil and death yet in the Japanese mythology shark is a messenger of the deity. Dolphin tattoo stands for freedom, nobleness, love and pleasure, as well as for rescue, Salvation and [...]

Leave a Reply