The Meaning Behind Turtle Tattoo Designs

Body art is becoming incredibly popular in today’s society, especially amongst the younger generations. This has been accelerated by the fact that almost every culture has a form of tattooing, often linked to spirituality. Turtle designs are no different.

Shelling Out For A Turtle Tattoo

You may have decided that you want a tattoo, but you don’t know what design you want. You may want something that just looks good, or you might want something with a deeper meaning. If you are leaning towards the latter, you might consider a turtle tattoo.

Turtles are fascinating creatures. Their thick shells keep them safe from predators and provide them shelter, and they are known to reach ages that far surpass even humans. It is amazing to think that turtles that are born now could very well be around long after our grandchildren are gone from this earth.

It is because of these interesting facts that turtles have a deep spiritual meaning to several different cultures around the world. For example, many Native American tribal legends attribute the creation of the Earth to the turtle. The Huron tribe, specifically, has a legend that a girl fell from the sky and landed in a world covered with water, and the sea animals took her to the wise old turtle for guidance. The turtle told them to bring soil from under the water and place it on his shell. Once this was done, the earth grew from his shell, and soon began covering the water. This is how the legend stated that land was formed.

The Native Americans are not the only cultures that hold a sacred place for the turtle. Polynesian and Hawaiian turtle tattoos are very common. Within these cultures, the turtle represents the calmness and tranquility that their cultures are known for. In other cultures, the turtle can represent bravery, endurance, wisdom, perseverance, safety, or longevity.

Aside from the symbolism of the turtle itself, these designs can offer a unique chance to incorporate other designs, as well. For example, within a turtle’s shell is a space that can be designated for other items, such as a Japanese character, a name, anything you want. Another option for incorporating designs is the popular choice of a tribal turtle tattoo.

The most important thing is to make the tattoo your own. There are thousands of variations, and thousands more to be discovered. A tattoo is a chance to express yourself. A turtle tattoo can do that in many ways, because there are so many ways to customize it. You can have a small turtle in a discreet location, or a very large and elaborate turtle design. You can even have traditional, tribal, or realistic designs, as well. The choice is yours.

Now, you have gotten a chance to understand why turtle tattoo designs have become so popular. If you decide to go this route, find a design and style that you like. Don’t forget that you can personalize it, as well.