Tattoos are an ancient form of art used to express artistry, symbolism, aesthetics, rebellion, and even religious beliefs. Tattooing is encouraged in some religions, like Hinduism and Buddhism. Even in spirituality, tattoos hold a special weight and value.
Full-sleeve tattoos have been popular since the 1970s. You may know this period in history as the “Hippie era,” and tattoo designs of flowers, peace signs, and birds were popular during this time. People used full-arm tattoos to express their views on spirituality and to symbolize peace.
There are many full-sleeve tattoo designs you can try out to represent your views on religion. Full-sleeve tattoos can also express rebellion against specific religious rules. Religious sleeve tattoos usually show off doves, flowers, verses from religious texts, and quotes from religious leaders. Here’s a list of some of the coolest religious sleeve tattoo designs.
Tattoos and Religion
Tattoos are a taboo topic in many religions and societies, even in the modern world. It is blasphemy to alter the natural bodies the creator has gifted humans in some religions. In some beliefs, marking the flesh with words of religion is considered a sign of faith and loyalty. Depending on which religion you choose to observe, the verdict on tattoos will vary.
Interestingly enough, the word “tattoo” has origins in religion. The word “tattoo” is derived from the Tahitian word “tatu,” meaning sacred art. According to Tahitian mythology, the two sons of the Tahitian God of creation, Ta’aroa, taught humans the art of “Tapu,” or the sacred art form. Tahua or Shamans were trained in the religious ritual of “Tapu” or “tatu” and passed on the spiritual significance of the art.
Religious tattoo sleeves depicting religious and cultural symbols have been popular among the youth, particularly due to the clear view of the art on the skin. Your arm can be easily exposed or covered up. The arm is an ideal position to showcase religious faith or defiance and rebellion against religion.
Tattoos in Hinduism and Buddhism
Hinduism is one of the few religions that doesn’t have anything written against tattoos in their scriptures. Tattoos are not forbidden in Hinduism in any direct order or verse from their holy books.
In certain Hindu communities in Northern India, married women would get a tattoo called “Sita’s Kitchen” on their foreheads. This tattoo was believed to be a charm to manage the household better. Women’s forehead tattoos were also believed to promote safe childbirth. In current times, it is common for young people to tattoo the character “Om” and various Hindu deities on their skin as a demonstration of belief and faith.
Similar to Hinduism, there are no doctrines in Buddhism that forbid tattoos. Buddhism highly preaches belief in spirituality and believes worldly bodies to be temporary vessels of the living soul. Following this belief, altering the body with tattoos does not break any rules in Buddhism.
Buddhism encourages tattoos such as the Face of Buddha, the Lotus flower, and the Sak Yant tattoos. Even non-Buddhists can get tattoos to honor Buddhism and make spirituality a permanent part of their skin.
Tattoos in Islam and Christianity
The Quran does not mention tattooing directly or if it is forbidden or not. Many Muslims believe tattoos are forbidden following the “Hadith” or words of the Prophet(Pbuh) or his followers. In Islam, it is believed that altering the body’s natural form is an act against the Creator.
Many believers use this and related verses to argue if tattoos are forbidden in Islam or not. Depending on who you ask and which branch of Islam you follow, the answer to whether or not tattoos are Haram(forbidden) in Islam may change.
Christianity has a much more direct stance on tattoos. Some Christians follow the verse from Leviticus: “You shall not make gashes in your flesh for the dead, or incise any marks on yourselves.” – Leviticus 19:28. This verse is interpreted to include the case of tattoos as well. The Bible has no direct mention of tattoos or anything against tattooing, but many followers of Christianity uphold Jewish beliefs when it comes to tattoos.
However, many followers and priests may get tattoos of the Holy Virgin Mary, the Cross, and Rosary beads. Biblical tattoo sleeves and Christian tattoo sleeves may be common among younger followers.
Religious tattoo sleeve ideas
Religious tattoo sleeves can be an outer representation of someone’s faith and artistic viewpoint. There are some religious sleeve tattoo ideas that are the first picks of many believers. These religious tattoos may be across the full sleeve or half sleeve, may be filled in, or just drawn in black ink.
If you’re looking for religious tattoo sleeve designs, feel free to draw inspiration from any of the following designs.
1. Crown of thorns tattoo:
The Crown of thorns tattoo is a popular design choice among younger people. The tattoo represents the love that Jesus Christ held for all of humanity and his sacrifice. The basic design shows a number of sharp thorns arranged in a circular form.
The thorns are sometimes drawn to look like they’re piercing the skin. Most times, the tattoo is drawn with red color on the spikes of the thorns to represent Christ’s blood. The crown of thorns tattoo can be drawn as a circle around the upper forearm or around the elbow.
It can cover the whole sleeve, accompanied by roses, tears, clouds, or other religious symbols. The crown of thorns tattoo symbolizes the blood, tears, and pain of Jesus Christ and his sufferings for humankind.
The crown inked into the skin can be a constant reminder of faith for believers. It can be inked with regular black ink and decorated with red ink to represent blood. Not only is it a strong, religious message, but also the crown tattoo is also awe-inspiring to onlookers.
A filled crown of thorns tattoo can have shades of black ink inside the lineart. Sometimes, the thorns may be stained with red dots or bits of green. Some tattoo artists even draw sharper lines around the tattoo spikes to make it look like they’re breaking the skin. This design symbolizes that the tattoo wearer is being pierced and hurt by the thorns as well.
2. Cross tattoo
The Cross is a popular design among Catholic religious sleeve tattoos. It is also pretty fashionable and one of the most common tattoo designs. Even atheists or non-Christians may get tiny crosses tattooed on their hands, arms, chest, or legs.
The cross represents the wooden stake where Jesus Christ was slain. It has become one of the most recognizable symbols in the world. A full-sleeve cross tattoo will show the cross design stretched across the entire arm expanse.
Sometimes, the tattoo is surrounded by clouds, birds, verses from the Bible, and sometimes light rays. Many people may even get the figure of Jesus Christ mounted on the cross.
A filled cross tattoo can be monochrome or colorful. The tattoo artist can use other symbolic designs to represent their own messages through the tattoo. The cross can represent sacrifice, patience, and resilience to Christians.
Some tattoo artists combine the Christian cross and a sun wheel to form the Celtic cross. The Celtic cross usually represents the Celtic church. The four points of the Celtic cross represent the four elements of nature- fire, water, earth, and wind. It can symbolize the connection between earthly energy and divinity.
Different forms of the cross can relay different meanings for each person. The cross design, color, placement, and size can carry the artist’s approach and the tattoo bearer’s ideas.
3. The Virgin Mary tattoo
The Virgin Mary is a well-known and respected figure in many religions and communities. The Virgin Mary design is not just limited to Christian tattoo sleeves. Various non-religious people also ink the Virgin Mary onto their skin to symbolize art, creativity, rebirth, courage, and patience. In terms of Christianity, the Virgin Mary sleeve tattoo represents sacrifice, tolerance, and protectiveness.
Sometimes, trauma survivors may also get the Virgin Mary tattoo to represent their unbroken strength and courage. The tattoo design usually depicts Mother Mary as a woman with her head covered.
Mary’s figure may be surrounded by feathers, light rays, doves, rosary beads, and crosses. Sometimes, she is carrying an infant in her arms. Some tattoos of the Virgin Mary may show her crying or in pain. Full-sleeve Virgin Mary tattoos are usually inked in black ink. More colorful ink tattoos illustrate flowers around her or even a halo around her head.
The Virgin Mary is an important symbol of faith across many beliefs. Virgin Mary tattoos can bring peace of mind and patience to the onlookers. It is also a sign of tolerance and unwavering belief. Many people believe Virgin Mary tattoos carry messages of inner peace, growth, and fertility.
4. The Ten Commandments tattoo
If you’re looking for Biblical tattoo sleeve designs, the Ten Commandments might be the right choice for you. Although the Ten Commandments are primarily credited to Christianity, they also hold value in Islam and Judaism. The Ten Commandments are a list of ten principles that define ethics and worship that a true believer must abide by.
The Ten Commandments are listed below:
1. You shall have another God before me.
2. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven images.
3. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.
4. Remember the Sabbath day and keep it Holy.
5. Honor your father and mother.
6. Thou shalt not kill
7. Thou shalt not commit adultery
8. Thou shalt not steal.
9. Thou shall not bear false witness.
10. You shall not covet.
Tattoo artists can fit the entire Ten Commandments or different renditions of it for tattoo sleeves. The Ten Commandments may be paraphrased to fit into the expanse of arm skin or to express a message better. Usually, bearing the Ten Commandments tattoo signifies faith, discipline, loyalty, and devotion.
The Ten Commandments sleeve tattoo is usually drawn on a page a book, or on a wall. Sometimes, the Commandments are adorned with religious symbols, rosary beads, and even the faces of religious figures.
The Ten Commandments tattoo usually covers the entire expanse of skin, such as the back, full arms, or any other placement. The page bearing the Commandments is usually colored in to look like parchment or old scrolls. The flowers around the verses are usually red roses and are filled in with color. Any other words or messages that may accompany the Ten Commandments are filled with black ink.
5. Biblical verses tattoo sleeves
Aside from the Ten Commandments, there are other lines in the Bible that can inspire Biblical tattoo sleeves. Biblical verses can represent a person’s courage, faith, inspiration, and views on spirituality. Depending on what sort of message you’re trying to send out, your choice of verses may vary. Here are some popular Biblical verses used for sleeve tattoos:
- “You make beautiful things out of dust.” – Genesis 2:7
- “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10
- “He will soar on wings like eagles.” – Isaiah 40:31
- “I will fear no evil, for thou art with me.” – Psalm 23:4
- “I will never leave you or forsake you.” – Hebrews 13:5
- “Love never ends.” – 1 Cor. 129
- “Saved by grace.” – Ephesians 2:8
Usually, the tattoo artist may choose a font to better suit their message. The tattoo bearer can also choose the font from the artist’s sample leaflet. Longer verses are picked for full-sleeve tattoos, while shorter and to-the-point verses can be half-sleeve tattoos.
Biblical verse tattoos are often inked in black ink and in simplistic designs. The verses may also be decorated with the Christian cross for added symbolism. Biblical tattoo sleeves are easily visible and carry strong messages. Bible verse tattoos can also serve as a reminder for the tattoo bearer to follow certain principles and teachings of faith.
6. The Lotus Flower Tattoo
The lotus flower is a prominent symbol in Buddhism, Hinduism, and certain communities in India. In Buddhism, Buddha is often drawn, sitting on a lotus flower and meditating. The lotus flower is a sign of inner peace, tranquility, patience, and beauty.
Hindus believe that the lotus flower represents spiritual awakening and purity. A lotus tattoo with five petals symbolizes the Five Buddhas of Wisdom, and the center represents enlightenment.
The lotus flower has different meanings in Buddhism, Hinduism, and Egyptian cultures. In general, the flower signifies personal growth and not succumbing to temptation. The lotus flower tattoo can be designed to have two layers of petals with the center slightly elevated.
This tattoo design usually symbolizes purity and personal growth. Simple lotus flower designs such as the five petal lotus represent simplicity and connection to nature. Your lotus flower tattoo may be colored with light pink or different shades of pink and outlined with black ink.
7. Buddha tattoo
Buddha is a figure most commonly associated with Buddhism and its beliefs. But the Buddha tattoo is not just limited to Buddhist followers. Both believers and non-believers get Buddha sleeve tattoos as a symbol that reflects faith, modesty, patience, growth, and inner struggle. Generally, Buddha tattoos express a person’s lifestyle, humility, and display of patience.
Buddha tattoos are commonly surrounded by the lotus flower, another powerful symbol among believers of different faiths and cultures. The Buddha’s face is drawn with one hand raised in a position of prayer. The drawing of Buddha sitting with his eyes closed is a sign of peace and serenity.
A Buddha tattoo typically takes up the full sleeve if it is drawn in detail. The use of black ink is a common style for the Buddha tattoo. Sometimes, the tattoo may be filled in with red ink or other darker shades. This enhances the seriousness and depth of the tattoo’s meaning. Half-sleeve Buddha tattoos may only show the Buddha’s head or the Buddha’s palm. The Buddha’s palm tattoo represents peace, wisdom, and strength.
8. Angel tattoo
Angels and angel wings are ever present symbols in almost every religion. A full-sleeve angel tattoo can show a human-like figure with large wings at the back and a halo above the head. Angel tattoos are believed to protect the tattoo wearer and guide them throughout life.
Angel tattoos can take several forms, such as friendly cherubs, more detailed angels with faces of grown men and women, and sometimes even biblically accurate angels. Certain art styles show a small, stout angel with a halo and a bow and arrow. This is usually the angel Cupid. Angel tattoos are believed to bring good luck and protection by some. Sometimes, angel sleeve tattoos may depict full-bodied apparitions wearing cloaks and holding the cross.
Highly detailed angel sleeve tattoos are designed to look a bit more intense, and they represent the inner warrior of the tattoo holder. Angel tattoos with large wings sometimes carry the Bible or rosary beads. The angel tattoo design represents divine guidance and protection throughout one’s life.
Angel tattoos are usually inked with black ink and show rays of light, halo, the cross, and other religious symbols. Angel tattoos are not necessarily limited to religious symbolism. They can express the beauty, solidarity, sacrifice, and gentleness of nature. Like many other symbols, angels have been adapted to signify much more than supernatural holy beings.
9. Holy numbers sleeve tattoo
The numbers 7, 11, 13, 77, and 666 are assigned value as the divine numbers. The “666” might be the only odd one here as it is regarded as Satan’s number or the Antichrist number in Christianity. However, not all believers view 666 as an evil number. Some people get the 666 number tattooed as a symbol of good luck. Number tattoos are not always strictly religious. They can have personal meanings for the tattoo bearer.
Sometimes, people tattoo the number 13 on their arm or wrist as it is considered good luck. The number 7 is seen as a holy number in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. In the Bible, it says that God created the heavens and earth in six days, and on the 7th day, He rested.
In Judaism, the number 7 is seen as wholeness or completeness. Usually, 7 tattoos are made in a plain design with black ink. Sometimes, the tattoo artist may use various forms of word art to make the design look unique.
Other number combinations such as 111, 77, 999, and more are known as “angel numbers” in certain cultures. These numbers are not specifically mentioned in any religious text to possess any meaning. But people believe certain angel numbers can provide protection, guidance, good luck, and prosperity.
Number tattoos are accompanied by other tattoo designs such as crowns, a halo, roses, and tridents. If you’re looking for subtle tattoo sleeves that also carry strong messages, number tattoos may be the right choice for you.
10. Gates of heaven tattoo
The Gates of heaven are well described in the Bible and the Quran. Many people take inspiration from these descriptions to imagine what the gates of heaven and stairs leading up to heaven may look like. This imagery has given birth to many types of art, including sleeve tattoos.
The Gates of Heaven tattoos are usually full-sleeve tattoos inked in black ink. The tattoo contains two pearly open gates, surrounded by clouds, and often may depict a staircase leading up to the open gate.
The Gates of Heaven tattoo can symbolize a new beginning for many. It also signifies one’s religious beliefs and faith in life after death. It can symbolize hope, faith, loyalty, beauty, and grace.
The interpretation of the Gates of Heaven tattoo depends on the person who wears the tattoo. Full-sleeve tattoos are more common with the Gates of Heaven design. The tattoo can be filled with black ink. Sometimes, light colors are also used to accentuate the lighter shades on the Gates and clouds.
Full-sleeve tattoos can take up to 3 to 4 hours to complete. Some tattoos that are more detailed can take longer. Gates of Heaven tattoos can hold different meanings depending on the person’s belief. Sometimes, gates of heaven tattoos don’t even carry any religious messages. People just get the tattoo inked as a personal preference.
11. Religious places and symbols as tattoos
Religious places like Mosques, Cathedrals, Pagodas, and Temples have always been inspirations for different forms of art. The structure of these places is unique and might be hard to draw. So highly skilled tattoo artists use real-life pictures of these establishments as references when drawing on the tattoos.
The drawing style differs from person to person and on the reference chosen. Generally, tattoos of religious buildings represent loyalty to one’s beliefs. It can also represent patience, safety, and atonement with oneself and the Creator. Many people feel at ease and protected when they carry a constant reminder of their faith with them. A place of worship is usually a safe haven for the believers.
All religions have certain symbols that represent their messages. In Christianity, apples, snakes, angel wings, and halos are all religious symbols. Similarly, in Buddhism, the lotus flower, tiger paw, leaves, and other natural elements are considered revered symbols that connect Earth to the heavenly powers.
Religious symbols have changed in their meaning throughout the years. So, the same symbol may carry a different meaning for a tattoo artist and the tattoo bearer. Religious places are usually highly detailed tattoos and designed for full sleeves.
Religious symbols can be added around the cathedrals and holy places to make the tattoos seem fuller. The Notre Dame Cathedral of Paris is a common design when looking for church inspired tattoo designs. Notre Dame has a rich religious and cultural history. A church, as a tattoo design, is believed to protect the tattoo bearer and always keep them well-guided.
12. Dove and olive branch tattoo
The dove carrying an olive branch is a sign of peace and surrender historically and in many religions. The dove can represent inner peace, personal growth, and freedom. Doves also represent elegance, fragility, and grace.
Sometimes, a dove taking flight can symbolize breaking free of personal barriers and pushing one’s limits. A dove carrying an olive branch has a religious history. It is a sign of understanding and peace between two parties.
Dove sleeve tattoos are usually colorful and coupled with flowers, tree branches, and clouds. The tattoos made with black ink are highly detailed and full-sleeve length. The dove tattoo may depict a dove taking flight, landing, or perched on top of any tree branch.
The dove sleeve tattoo represents a strong personality and free will. A full-sleeve dove tattoo is often colored in with gold and lighter shades to represent freedom and free thinking.
The dove tattoo isn’t always religious. It is also a cultural symbol. The dove carrying an olive branch tattoo is popular among both men and women. Most people in their late 20’s may prefer this design. All the designs of the dove tattoo on the sleeve represent free-thinking, peace, and love.
13. Spiritual Sak Yant tattoos
Sak Yant tattoos are powerful spiritual art forms with Sak Yant verses written around any animal tattoo or religious symbol. Sak Yant tattoos are cultural and holy in Buddhism and Thai culture. These tattoos are thought to protect, guide, and enrich.
Sak Yant tattoos have to be drawn on by Sak Yant experts who know the correct verses and meanings behind the tattoos. Scholars have studied Sak Yant tattoos for years to understand their meaning and power. These tattoos are powerful and spiritual. Sak Yant tattoos have two parts: a powerful symbol at the center and surrounding words called “Yantra”.
Yantra can directly translate to “spell” in English. But Yantra holds spiritual meaning connected to faith. It doesn’t include magic or witchcraft of any form. Sak Yant tattoos can be drawn with different Yantra, and each has a specific purpose. Some Sak Yant tattoos are drawn to bring in good luck for the bearer.
Some tattoos are drawn for physical well-being. Yantra or prayers that can accelerate financial growth and wealth, are also popular tattoo designs. Sak Yant tattoos can be worn by non-religious people as well. But you must get the tattoo from an authentic Sak Yant tattoo expert. Only people versed in Sak Yant know the right words and meanings to manifest from the tattoos.
Sak Yant tattoos are the perfect designs for full-sleeve religious tattoos. They can be drawn with black ink, and the centerpiece will sometimes be colored with red or golden ink. The center of Sak Yant’s tattoos can be birds, tigers, or other symbols. Sak Yant tiger tattoos represent fierceness and strength.
Sak Yant tattoos are signs of spirituality, faith, and loyalty to a higher power. They can protect, guide, motivate, and benefit the tattoo carrier all throughout their life.
14. Arabic calligraphy tattoo designs
Arabic calligraphy is one of the oldest forms of highly revered art. Arabic poetry and calligraphy are important elements of history and culture. Arabic calligraphy-inspired tattoo sleeves may be verses from the Holy Book Quran, Arabic poetry, or words of the Prophet and his followers.
Some people get Arabic words with special meanings tattooed on their sleeves. Here are some ideas for Arabic calligraphy tattoos:
- Forgiveness – غفران
- Fighter – مقاتل
- To stay strong – ابقى قويا
- Love – الحب
- Angel – ملاك
Arabic calligraphy tattoos are not strictly religious and people of any faith can get them. But be sure to not use verses from any holy doctrines in a disrespectful manner. Arabic calligraphy tattoos can be full-sleeve tattoos if longer verses and phrases are used. Mostly smaller half-sleeve tattoos are more popular. People of all ages get sleeve tattoos with calligraphy.
15. Face of Jesus tattoo design
Jesus Christ is a common symbol for Christian tattoo designs in varying forms. The tattoos usually depict a man tied to a wooden cross, holding rosary beads, or praying. For some designs, only the face of Jesus Christ is inked as a tattoo. The tattoo sleeve may show him crying or in an expression of pain.
Following religious history, the story of Christ is well-known among people of all faiths. A face of Christ tattoo sleeve represents resilience, focus, patience, and love. People of faith believe Jesus Christ sacrificed himself for the sins of humankind so they will be forgiven. The face of Jesus tattoo sleeves also represent faith, loyalty, and forgiveness. One can always find motivation inner peace and strength in this tattoo sleeve design.
Usually, Jesus tattoos are full-sleeved designs. The tattoo may be inked with only black ink. Sometimes the hands and feet are shown to be spilling out blood using red ink. This is an impactful religious tattoo sleeve design for most believers.
16. Angel wings tattoo
Angel tattoos and angel wings tattoos have been used as popular symbols in religious and cultural movements alike. Just the angel wing sleeve tattoos mean freedom, enlightenment, and reaching one’s true potential. Full-sleeve angel wing tattoos are made with black ink and sometimes may have golden highlights.
Angel wing tattoos represent freedom of thought and action. For some people, the tattoos mean reaching their full potential. Some people get angel wings tattoos to signify falling from grace, while some get angel wings as symbols of grace. The interpretation of tattoos differs from person to person. But in general angel wings represent trust, fragility, and autonomy.
17. St. Michael tattoo
St. Michael is one of the Archangels in Christianity and is associated with power, courage, and strength. St. Michael’s tattoos are typically full-sleeve and well-detailed tattoos. The tattoo may depict the face of the Archangel with wings and loose clothing. Sometimes the angel may be carrying a staff or a sword.
The St. Michael tattoo means strength, power, courage, and dominance. An Archangel is a symbol of celestial power among heavenly bodies. There are no fixed images to use for a St. Michael tattoo so designs will vary from person to person.
Sometimes St. Michael may carry a Bible or a Christian cross which is also symbolism for faith in Christianity. But like most Christian tattoo sleeves, the St. Michael or Archangel tattoo isn’t exclusive to just followers of non-Christianity. Many non-believers may also get this tattoo. But as the tattoo is large in size and takes a long time to finish, it’s not overly popular among the folks who just want a casual religious tattoo.
18. Praying hands with rosary beads tattoo
Rosary beads are used to pray in Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism. The design of the beads might be different but they serve the same purpose. Rosary beads are used to call the Lord’s name while counting each bead. Hands praying with rosary beads is a common religious tattoo sleeve design.
The rosary beads are often inked with black ink and the praying hands might be just sketched. Like most religious tattoo sleeves, the rosary beads tattoo represents faith, loyalty, and deliverance to a higher power. The rosary bead sleeve tattoo can mean praying for a better future, praying for safety, and blessings. These tattoos are also believed to protect the bearer and bring good luck.
Tattoos that depict two hands praying with rosary beads are usually full-sleeve tattoo designs. The tattoos are believed to carry positive energy and strengthen one’s connection to the divine.
19. Hindu deity-inspired tattoos
Hinduism has one of the largest numbers of Deities and Gods followed by various groups of people. Tattooing powerful deities such as Durga, Laxmi, Ganesha, and Krishna, among others is a popular trend among Indian Hindus.
Religious tattoo sleeve designs with Hindu deities can hold varied meanings depending on the deity and the believer. The Goddess Laxmi is thought to bring in wealth and good fortune. Usually, tattoos of the Lord Ganesha mean strength, power, leadership, and superior human qualities. These tattoos are also permanent markings of faith in the Gods and Goddesses.
Sometimes Hindu deities are drawn to be riding their “Vahana” or carrier in the tattoos. The “Vahana” are different animals that the Deities ride on as transportation. Other designs such as the “Chakra”, sunlight, and sometimes Sanskrit symbols may adorn the tattoos. Tattoo sleeves of Hindu deities are more common in Indian Hindu communities. Some people may get such tattoos for fashion but that number is fairly low compared to Christianity-related tattoos.
20. The Swastika Sleeve Tattoo and its Meaning
The Swastika is one of the most misunderstood and misused symbols of our time. The swastika is most commonly associated with the holocaust and Nazi Germany, but these two symbols have basic differences that set them apart by miles
Although the more commonly despised symbol is associated with a dark history, the original symbol has origins in Ancient India and Buddhism. The sign was declared to mean “the source of all good and comfort” in 693 by Wu Zetian.
The symbol associated with the holocaust is tilted and without the four dots that adorn the original Swastika. Several South Asian religions and communities hold the Swastika symbol in high regard. They paint it over their house doors on walls and also get Swastika tattoos. The symbol is believed to bring in good luck, motivate personal growth, accentuate faith and personal connection to spirituality, and also has other meanings.
The Swastika sleeve tattoo is a display of faith in a higher power and the constant ongoing healing of man. This sleeve tattoo also represents a connection between man and the divine. A Swastika tattoo sleeve can keep one motivated through all their hardships and difficult times. Swastika tattoos are ideal as a half-sleeve tattoo design.
Sometimes, the Swastika symbol may be complemented with holy symbols such as the character “Om” or others. Together these symbols are believed to offer divine protection and good fortune.
Using tattoos in rebellion against religion
The art of tattooing is one of the oldest art forms in human history that is still heavily practiced. Tattooing is a traditional part of many religions and cultures, but it has also been used as a word of rebellion. Some communities may use tattoos as a word against extremist religious beliefs and as a display of freedom for open thinking.
Such tattoo sleeve designs may include religious symbols or verses from religious doctrines. These tattoos signify people’s stance against certain beliefs and practices. But sometimes, they may also use religious texts as a source to rebel against extremists. This trend of using tattoos to amplify your voice is common among the younger generations.
One such community that uses tattoos to send a message against religious extremism is the Ramnaami tribe.
The Ramnaami tattoo tribe
The Ramnaami tattoo tribe of Chhattisgarh in India was founded by Parasuram around the 1890s. This tribe found a unique way to fight casteism by tattooing the name “Ram‘ all over their bodies.
The members of this caste weren’t allowed to enter temples or participate in religious events. In defiance of the class system, members of the community tattooed “Nirgun Ram” all over their bodies, even on their eyelids. To this day, the Ramnaamis carry on this custom to send a message to the higher caste people and the rest of the world.
Using religious tattoos on their bodies signifies that they aren’t impure or unworthy of God’s mercy. The Ramnaami tribe is an example of using religious tattoos for rebellion against social issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How expensive are tattoo sleeves?
Tattoo sleeve cost can vary depending on your tattoo style, length, placement, color choice, and the artist you choose. A full-sleeve tattoo from a reputable artist can cost up to $2,000 to $3,000. In cities like LA or New York, a full-sleeve tattoo can cost you as much as $6,000. But if you’ve got a smaller budget, you can get sleeve tattoos for $160-$200.
Try reaching out to your friends who might know about tattoo places and compare your options. Be sure to look into reviews before picking a tattoo place.
Should I get a half-sleeve tattoo or a full-sleeve tattoo?
Deciding your tattoo length can be tricky, even if you have a design in mind. The aspects to consider when deciding on a full-sleeve or half-sleeve tattoo are your budget, time, tattoo artist, tattoo details, and personal preferences.
Some tattoos simply require more space than other smaller designs.
Is it okay to get religious tattoos if you’re a nonbeliever?
Even non-believers can get religious tattoo sleeves if they want. Certain tattoos, such as the Sak Yant tattoos, have to be drawn by Sak Yant experts so they can be made accurately. But even non-Buddhists can get the tattoo from professionals.
Is tattooing a sin in the Bible?
The Bible does not address tattooing directly, but many Christians believe tattooing is a sin following the verse from Leviticus. No holy book or religious doctrine of Christianity mentions tattoos directly by name. But the verse of Leviticus against permanent gashes made to the skin is followed by many who consider tattoos forbidden in Christianity.
Can Catholics get tattoos?
Yes, Catholics can get tattoos. There are no rules forbidding Catholics, churchgoers, or priests from getting tattoos. It depends on personal beliefs and a person’s viewpoint. Usually, Catholic people get the cross tattoo or Biblical verses inked onto their skin.
Conclusion
Religion and the art of tattooing have been connected since the beginning. People use tattoos to represent their faiths, messages, and cultures. In some religions, tattoos are believed to be forbidden, while others encourage the art. Whatever may be your take on tattoos, religious tattoo sleeves have become an ever present part of human culture.
Before deciding on your religious tattoo sleeve design, be sure to check what sort of message you want your tattoo to carry. Along with the tattoo message, it is important to decide on a budget and pick the right tattoo artist. This will be inked into your skin for a lifetime, so it’s better to have a firm standing on your intentions.
In general, religious tattoo sleeves represent blessings, courage, faith, and new beginnings. But like all art forms, it’s the intentions of the tattoo bearer and the artist that give the tattoos a true meaning.
