Cross designs are a very popular Celtic symbol and frequently used in Celtic body art. The design is based on the Latin cross, and the vertical and horizontal lines symbolize the union of the heavens and the earth. There a ring in the middle, at the intersection of the horizontal and vertical lines that symbolizes the Creator's never-ending love for mankind, while the horizontal line represents the earth and the vertical line represents the spiritual world. Spiral patterns are often found inside the cross and stand for the eternal existence of love and spirit.
For a more romantic design, you might consider the Celtic heart. These tattoo designs start as a line and end as a heart-shaped knot, representing the unity of souls. Celtic hearts are often known as the "love knot tattoo."
Spiral designs are made up of continuous lines and form complicated patterns. They symbolize the immortality of love. These designs are a very popular choice, and are seen in many variations. They can be quite simple or extravagantly complicated and intricate.
According to Celtic tradition, animals play a major role in the harmony of nature. Certain animal tattoos stand for certain things. The dog symbolizes loyalty and luck, the butterfly symbolizes transformation and rebirth, the crow indicates death, the bull indicates strength, the snake stands for fertility and healing, the lion stands for nobility and strength, the dragon symbolizes magic and power and the horse indicates beauty, rejuvenation, speed and vitality.
Celtic knots are the most popular Celtic tattoo design. With no beginning and no end, the intertwined lines represent the continuous cycle of life and death. Sometimes a trinity type design is used to symbolize the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, or the mind, body and spirit.
The Celtic tree of life design also symbolizes a connection between heaven and earth, like the Celtic cross. Often, this is depicted by the branches of the tree reaching for the heavens while the roots grasp the earth. The trunk stands for the meeting point between these two worlds.
The Celtic maze design represents one's journey throughout life. Just like life, the maze has a myriad of open and blocked roads. It is an excellent representation of the ups and downs and joys and sorrows of life.
If you are planning on getting a Celtic tattoo, hopefully this information has been helpful in making your decision on which type and style to go with! Adrienne Farrell
