8 Powerful Sacred Geometry Symbols for Tattoos & Why
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From ancient rituals to modern expressions, tattoos have always been a profound medium to channel our connection with the cosmos. So, for those looking for symbols with intricate patterns and profound symbolism, sacred geometry makes an excellent choice. But because there are so many types of sacred geometry designs, how do you choose the right one for you? In this article, we take a look at some of the most popular sacred geometry symbols, what they mean, and how they can be turned into stunning tattoo designs.
What Do Sacred Geometry Tattoos Mean?
Sacred geometry tattoos draw inspiration from the patterns, shapes, and designs found in the natural world that are believed to represent deeper spiritual meanings and universal order. These designs, such as the Flower of Life, Metatron’s Cube, and the Seed of Life, among others, are considered by many cultures to be blueprints of the universe, echoing the fundamental forms and patterns behind everything in existence. They are known as sacred geometry.
Tattoos with these designs aren’t just beautiful to look at but also resonate with those who are seeking a deeper connection to the larger cosmos. These are symbols of the interconnectedness of all things and a reminder of our place in the vast universe.
1. Flower of Life
Meaning: Interconnectedness and cyclical nature of the universe.
The Flower of Life is a geometric design made up of multiple overlapping circles in a symmetrical pattern. This ancient symbol, often seen as a grid of perfectly spaced, interlocked circles, is believed to represent the interconnectedness of life and the foundational pattern of the universe.
Because it encompasses concepts of creation, existence, and the cyclical nature of life, the Flower of Life has been embraced and studied by diverse cultures around the globe. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, many consider it a visual expression of the connections that run through all sentient beings, suggesting that everything and everyone is interconnected in the cosmic web of existence
2. Vesica Piscis
Meaning: The union of opposites, creation, and the foundational form of the geometric and spiritual universe.
A symbol of balance and oneness, the vesica piscis is a geometric shape formed by the intersection of two circles with the same radius, which creates an almond shaped center. Its name is derived from Latin for the bladder of a fish. This symbol was prominent in Pythagorean history. The ancients believed this symbol was sacred because the ratio of its width to its height equals to a sacred ratio. It has been commonly featured in medieval art, paintings, sculptures, and architectural designs of churches and temples. It also holds significance in religions.
3. Tree of Life
Meaning: Connection, unity, growth, rebirth, immortality, fertility, and spiritual enlightenment.
A representation of spiritual transformation, growth and strength, the tree of life is one of the most universal symbols across cultures and religions. The tree of life has branches that reach high into the sky and roots that spread into the ground. Trees have been regarded as sacred since the ancient times, associating the symbol with the heavens and the earth, path to enlightenment, as well as rebirth and immortality. The symbol used to be carved on the armor of warriors and drawn on walls of fortresses, making it symbolic for tattoos.
4. The Metatron Cube
Meaning: Connection, unity, growth, rebirth, immortality, fertility, and spiritual enlightenment.
A symbol of balance and harmony, the Metatron cube is said to contain every geometric shape found in all creation. This makes it quite a unique shape and one that has intrigued philosophers and mathematicians for centuries. The shape was named after the angel Metatron, who oversees the flow of energy in a mystical cube, so all aspects of nature will be in harmony.
Metatron’s Cube features circles connected by a series of lines, in such a way that to pull at one string will affect everything. This ties the symbol to interconnectedness and unity, showing how we’re all one. The symbol is also associated with protection and healing. It has inspired many tattoo designs and serves as an inspiration for personal transformation.
5. Hexagram
Meaning: The harmonious union of opposing forces or dualities, often representing the interconnectedness of the divine and the earthly.
The hexagram, a six-pointed star formed by overlapping two equilateral triangles, is one of the most recognized religious symbols. While its meaning varies across cultures and religions, it’s prominently known as the Star of David in Judaism. Historically, it has also been associated with the Seal of Solomon.
The hexagram holds varied significance across different cultures and spiritual paths. In Hinduism, it is linked with the heart chakra and denotes an ideal meditative state. Occult traditions often interpret the hexagram as a symbol of the union of opposites, reflecting dualities like the spiritual vs. the physical or the masculine vs. the feminine.
For some, it encapsulates the Hermetic maxim, “As Above, So Below,” highlighting the interconnectedness of different realms and the idea that shifts in one can influence the other. As a symbol of sacred geometry, its multifaceted meanings make it a thoughtful choice for tattoos, but understanding its resonance personally is crucial before immortalizing it in ink.
6. Sri Yantra
Meaning: The universe’s divine creation and the union of the divine feminine and masculine.
The Sri Yantra, also known as the Sri Chakra, is a complex and ancient diagram used in the Indian spiritual tradition. It is considered one of the most powerful and auspicious of all Yantras (geometric designs intended to meditate upon). The words Sri Yantra can be broken down as follows:
- Sri”: Generally denotes wealth, grace, prosperity, or auspiciousness in the Hindu context.
- “Yantra”: A tool or instrument, specifically a geometric figure used in Hindu tantra to focus the mind during meditation, to invoke a deity, or to imbibe certain energies.
Today, the Sri Yantra has become a popular tattoo option for those who value its spiritual and aesthetic properties.
7. Mandala
Meaning: Symbolizes the universe, unity, wholeness, and the interconnectedness of life.
The term mandala comes from Sanskrit and means sacred circle. The symbol itself translates complex mathematical expressions into intricate shapes and patterns. Its meaning may vary depending on the culture and religion, but it generally represents the universe, cosmic unity, balance and harmony. For some, it acts as a bridge between the higher and lower realms.
Many people are drawn to mandalas purely for their aesthetic appeal. They’re so highly versatile and can be stylized in many ways. Include your favorite symbols within the mandala or simply go with a standard design. Either way, it looks amazing.
8. Hamsa
Meaning: Symbolizes the universe, unity, wholeness, and the interconnectedness of life.
One of the most popular symbols of protection, the hamsa is often depicted as a symmetrical hand, with an eye at the center of the palm. In tattoos, a hamsa facing upwards is thought to ward off evil and malicious intent, while a hamsa facing downwards is believed to attract prosperity and abundance.
Types of Sacred Geometry Tattoos
Most sacred geometry symbols are complex, and symmetry is an essential part of these tattoos. When choosing the perfect type of sacred geometry tattoo, consider the following options.
Dotwork Sacred Geometry Tattoos
Dotwork sacred geometry tattoos use countless tiny dots, influenced by the post-impressionist pointillism art movement, to craft symbols with an illusion of depth and shadows. It offers a softer and more feminine appearance than designs with solid lines and colors.
Sketch-Inspired Sacred Geometry Tattoos
These tattoos have a sketched appearance, reminding us of an artist’s drawings in a sketchbook. Depending on the sacred geometry symbol, the tattoo design may have messy trailing lines or rough edges. Just keep in mind that certain symbols like the Metatron Cube and Sri Yantra require a streamlined look, so this style isn’t recommended for them. Still, some symbols like the tree of life look stylish and beautiful with a sketchy and artistic look.
Watercolor Sacred Geometry Tattoos
Who says you have to resort to strong, dark outlines and shading just to make your sacred geometry tattoo stunning? When done in watercolor style, your tattoos will look like a serious work of art. It generally features bright, vivid colors, along with techniques such as fades, runs, bleeds and blurs, reminding us of a classic watercolor painting.
Blackwork Sacred Geometry Tattoos
Blackwork sacred geometry tattoos, primarily using black ink, offer a bold statement, resembling but less intense than full blackout tattoos. This style enhances sacred geometry symbols, offers a striking contrast between negative space and deep black ink.
Sacred Geometry Tattoo Sleeves
If you want to take your sacred geometry tattoos to the next level, think of tattoo sleeves. While you can use a specific symbol as your overall design, some incorporate many symbols in their tattoos, as if they’re part of a whole puzzle. It’s one of the most intricate tattoo designs that tell a story and make a bold statement.
The Importance of Sacred Geometry in Different Cultures
Sacred geometry symbols have been significant in different cultures and religions. Some have even inspired the structures of churches, tabernacles, mosques and temples.
In Greek Culture
The Pythagorean theorem, developed by Greek philosopher Pythagoras, remains an essential part of geometry today. However, he also believed that the universe was structured based on moral principles and mathematical ratios, associating it with sacred geometry. In fact, the Pythagoreans adopted the tetractys as their symbol, which features a triangular figure with ten points. They also regard the circle as a symbol for oneness and unity.
In Eastern Cultures
Hindu temples feature sacred geometry symbols in their structures, such as the mandala to represent the wholeness of the universe. When used as an instrument of meditation, it’s depicted as a square within the circle.
In Chinese Culture
In Chinese symbolism, the circle represents the heavens, while the square represents the earth. The Chinese are known to have built structures, palaces and temples based on sacred geometry. Also, the principles of feng shui are rooted in sacred geometry, which are thought to attract good health, wealth, prosperity and luck.
In Christianity
Sacred geometry can be found in Christianity. For example, triangle shapes, which are thought to symbolize the Holy Trinity, are common in windows of Christian churches. It’s said that the Chartres Cathedral in France was even built based on sacred geometry, from its stained glass windows to labyrinth and interiors.
Celebrities with Sacred Geometry Tattoos
Whether you want a style statement or a religious symbol, sacred geometry tattoos can be a great choice. Here are some of the celebrities who find sacred geometry stylish and meaningful:
- As a representation of balance and harmony, mandala tattoos have appealed to celebrities due to its intricate geometric pattern. The former One Direction singer Zayn Malik sports his mandala tattoo on his head, while American model Ireland Baldwin sports the symbol on her upper left arm.
- As a symbol of protection, the hamsa symbol has been popular in celebrity tattoos. Model Jourdan Dunn wears her hamsa tattoo on her inner arm, while basketball player Kyrie Irving also tattooed the symbol on his shoulder. American actress and model Genesis Rodriguez got inspired to have it tattooed after a trip from Israel, where she was filming for a television show. Japanese-British singer Asami Zdrenka sports the tattoo on her left forearm.
In Brief
Sacred geometry tattoos aren’t only symmetrical and beautiful—they’re also symbolic. Many religious structures, from temples to cathedrals, mosques and pyramids were built using specific shapes and number patterns. These symbols also tend to be abundant in nature and other forms of artwork. Whether you believe in the spiritual meanings of sacred geometry or not, these symbols are powerful and mystical for tattoos.
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