When we talk about tribal tattoos, the types of tattoos that you would see are those abstract designs that would closely resemble a specific animal or object and artistically drawn into the skin to make it either menacing or awe inspiring. There are also tribal tattoos that would look like random swirls or curves in the body that does not have any meaning but in truth, the design would mean different things based on the tribe that they have derived it from.
Tribal tattoos are based on the different indigenous tribes from different countries mostly originated from the natives of America, Europe and Australia. The design for the tribal tattoos have different meaning that would be based on the belief of a specific tribe. During those days, a tattoo would be unique to one man, since the meaning of the tattoo would depend upon the bearer.
Some of the famous tribal tattoos are: Native American, Polynesian, Maori and Hawaiian. Each tribal tattoo design has a different meaning since it came from various cultures around the world.
Native American tribal tattoo designs are based on cultural ideas and expressions. Most of the time, tattoos were given during different rites of passage and blessings. These were given to warriors of the tribe that would protect them while they hunt or prepare for war. Some of the tattoo designs also give you a particular status symbol in the tribe. The Mayans and the Aztecs tribal tattoo are the most common tattoo design in this category.
Polynesian tribal tattoo designs are based on the traditions of a particular tribe. It has deeper roots as it tackles religious values, legends, and mythologies. The design usually centers on particular tribe rituals that are based on their particular religious beliefs and superstitions. Special tattoo designs were given to warriors who have pleased their ancestors. These warriors were also given special status symbols in their tribes because of it.
Maori tribal tattoo designs are mostly done as a part of a celebratory ritual to the tribe. Tattoos were given to tribesmen in different events that unfold in their lives. Some of these tattoos were placed during specific rites of passage for warriors of the tribe whenever they show strength and courage in particular events. Other times, these tattoos were given to the individual that has shown a particular unique trait that he or she can use for the benefit of the tribe, giving him or her a special status within the tribe.
Lastly, the Hawaiian tribal tattoo designs were given to tribesmen as a sign of their identity within the tribe. These tattoos were usually given to members of the tribe after they were given their rite of passage. Tattoos were also given to a tribesman as protection from evil spirits. They put it in specific parts of their bodies so as to be protected properly from the wrath of spirits who seek out trouble within the tribe or a particular family.
Based on the above descriptions, all tribal tattoos have special meaning before any member of the tribe would place it in their bodies. So, before adopting a particular tribal tattoo, make sure to find out the meaning of it.
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