Cross Tattoos

Cross tattoos are among the most versatile tattoo symbols out there today, as even a rudimentary internet search reveals. Contrary to what you might think however, not all cross tattoos are religious in nature – at least, not in a conventional sense! Cross tattoos are all representations of a symbol that is far more ancient and varied than you might think. Yes, the cross is used as an expression of Christian faith, but it’s used in a lot of other ways as well!

Celtic Cross Tattoos

The Celtic cross is a particularly beautiful representation of this almost universal symbol and Celtic cross tattoos are a popular type of Celtic tattoo. The basic cross formation is surrounded by a border of Celtic knotwork or the knotwork might adorn the inside of the cross. In either case, the effect of these cross tattoos is stunning, either in plain black or a bold Celtic green.

Christian Crosses

Even if we just look at the basic Christian cross, there is still an almost endless variation in types of symbols and images. One type of tattoo of crosses shows Jesus on the cross, while others show the crown of thorns either hung over one arm or the cross or suspended in the middle of it. An interesting variation is the cross of nails – in this cross tattoo, the cross itself is made up of large, rough-looking nails, the type that were driven through Christ’s hands and feet. Often a crown of thorns is added to this image as well. Cross tattoos are very apt at expressing the Christian faith, and have come to be associated with Christianity throughout the world.

Pre-Christian Crosses

Some people may be surprised to learn that crosses were not always a Christian symbol – in fact, there was many cross symbols in the older, pagan religions. Tattoo drawings of crosses come from many different traditions in fact. The ancient Babylonians had a cross symbol that was associated with their moon deity, and the Assyrian cross was associated with the four directions. In ancient Egypt, the ‘ankh’ cross symbol was a symbol or the union between Isis and Osirus. Ankh tattoos, like other cross tattoos, are popular today, especially among people who have an interest in mythology or the occult. The sheer number of cross symbols that exist – and the power of the cross symbol - ensures that cross tattoos have lasting power and symbolism.