Lotus flower as a tattoo: the meaning of this fascinating tattoo
Together with the rose and the sunflower, the lotus flower is one of the most popular floral subjects in the world of tattoos. It owes its fame to the rich tradition that sees it as a protagonist in oriental cultures, where "over the years it has become a symbol of rebirth, femininity and many other fascinating concepts. Today we will see in detail the meaning of the lotus flower as a tattoo, also discovering its possible variants based on the chosen color and shape of the flower.
If you are looking for ideas for your next tattoo, we advise you, before starting, to watch this short video in which we explain everything there is to know before getting a tattoo!
The symbolism of the flower of them in various cultures
Today, this flower has become part of different cultures around the world, but it must be recognized that it owes a lot to the Eastern one and, above all, to Buddhism. According to this philosophy of life, in fact, the eight petals of the lotus flower represent one of its fundamental principles, namely the eightfold path.
In addition, this plant grows in swamps, mud and stagnant waters. Its roots originate in the dirt, in the "filth" of the Earth. However, the flower is not affected by this "degrading" context, on the contrary, when it blooms, it shows its beauty without contamination. Its petals and leaves are able to keep themselves clean because they are hydrophobic, that is, they manage to retain water molecules but expel external particles. For this characterization, for Buddhists, the lotus flower is also an emblem of purity, both of the mind that of the body, of spiritual development and detachment from the material world.
We can find more or less similar meanings in Hinduism. Hindus call this flower Padma and, according to them, it would be a symbol of beauty, purity and spiritual awakening of the individual. In addition, it is also attributed a rich symbolism linked to femininity for its conformation. When it blooms, in fact, it remembers the womb, seat of new life. Thus, in the Hindu culture we find all the female divinities represented seated (recalling the act of birth) on this floral species, which becomes a symbol of birth and resurrection.
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Moving towards the West, we see the lotus flower already known and appreciated by the ancient Greeks which give it a different meaning compared to the cultures of the "East. Nell"Odyssey, Ulysses lands on an "island north of Africa" and sends three men to seek information on the population. These, however, forget the way back to the ships because they eat lotus flower which, according to Greek mythology, the natives ate. The effect of the petals of this aquatic plant would be precisely that of drowsiness and amnesia. Once his men are found, Ulysses is forced to tie them aboard the ship because the three rebel and want to return to the island. All this demonstrates how the amnesia attributable to the lotus flower is something that, in reality, many would like: the ability to forget the past, to start over and, therefore, to be reborn.
The lotus flower as a tattoo
As we have seen, behind the lotus flower there is a "wide tradition that embraces different cultures. Therefore, choosing this subject as a tattoo can have multiple meanings, which vary from person to person. First of all, it must be said that its meaning can change. depending on the shape it is drawn in. An open lotus flower symbolizes creation, while closed represents opportunity.
In general, many women decide to tattoo this flower on their skin following the end of a relationship, thus making it an emblem of oblivion and rebirth. As in the case of the phoenix, here the lotus flower means overcoming the moment. or the pain and desire for a new beginning.
According to some, this tattoo version of this floral species represents the distance from someone you love.It is often chosen by those who, for one reason or another, spend a lot of time away from their loved ones and their country of origin.
Finally, according to the Japanese tradition, the lotus flower as a tattoo should never be combined with another floral species, because the first comes from water while the second from the earth and the various natural elements should not be mixed. Instead, they recommend tattooing the lotus next to the carp koi, a symbol of courage, determination and will of mind. Together, the two would indicate the individual's will to achieve perfection or one's own spiritual rebirth.
Each color has a meaning
In addition to the shape, the meaning of a lotus flower tattoo can change depending on the color you prefer.
- White: indicates the purity and perfection of the spirit and mind.
- Pink: represents the deities, mainly due to the influence of Buddhism.
- Red: sign of all the emotions of the heart, from love to passion and compassion
- Purple: this color has always been close to mystery and spirituality. As a tattoo, the purple lotus flower is represented in the bud stage, indicating the "Eightfold Path, one of Buddha's teachings."
- Light blue or blue: indicates the victory of spirituality over passions and earthly attachment. Furthermore, it takes on the meaning of wisdom and intelligence.
Where to tattoo the lotus flower
Compared to many other tattoos, the lotus flower tattoo adapts to different parts of the body. There are those who decide to do it on more or less extensive areas of skin, such as on the back or shoulders, and those who, on the other hand, prefer smaller and "hidden" areas such as the ankle, wrist or on one side of the neck. the meaning you want to give to the tattoo does not change according to its position, but it is good to choose the right style of the tattoo to be satisfied with the result.
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