The Wide Appeal of Christian Tattoos

Because many of us still tend to associate tattoos with a disreputable, even vaguely criminal underclass, it may surprise you to realize that Christian tattoos are extremely popular. Yes, Christians do get tattoos – and for many of them, Christian tattoos represent a unique and personal way of keeping Christian iconography and religious imagery close at hand. Unlike the Jewish faith, Christianity does not have any rule or guideline against tattooing, except to caution young people to be modest with regard to the image they embody in the world. So, as long as it is tasteful and appropriate, a Christian tattoo is a powerful symbol that resonates with a lot of Christian youth.

The Christian Cross Tattoo

A great variety of Christian symbols have been turned into tattoo images – none more so than the cross. Christian tattoos depicting various forms of the cross are always plentiful; after all, this is the most apt and most recognizable Christian image of all. Some cross tattoos show Jesus on the cross, while others show the cross – often with realistic wood graining – with a crown of thorns hung over one arm. Other cross tattoos consist of crossed nails – big, rough looking nails like those that were used to hang Jesus on the cross.

Other popular cross images include the Celtic cross (probably one of the most popular Christian tattoos of all), the Russian cross, and the Egyptian ‘ankh’ – a cross with a circular shape on top, the ancient Egyptian symbol for ‘life’.

Other Christian Images

Besides the cross, there are other Christian images that are often used in Christian tattoos. The fish symbol is a great example – based on various biblical references, a stylized fish symbol is often used as a symbol of Christ. This is a compact, but quite striking symbol that lends itself well to tattooing, especially in black.

Hispanic Christian Tattoos

Hispanic Christian tattoos – often gang related – are an intriguing sub-group. If you know anything about the culture, you won’t be too surprised to learn that most Mexicans and other Hispanic people, even if they are involved in gangs or other criminal activities, are deeply religious and rely on their Christian symbols to both identify and protect them. These Christian tattoos are rather more complex – many involve a tattooed image of a saint, Jesus, or the Virgin Mary. Hispanic tattoos often feature words, as well – usually a Bible verse, perhaps accompanied by a loved one’s name. Many Mexican gang members have multiple elaborate tattoos, allowing the individual to literally wear his identity and emotions on his skin, if not his sleeve!