The concept of totem animals and animal spirit guides played a major role in Native American culture. The specific meanings may vary slightly between different tribes, so it’s a good idea to conduct some thorough research before deciding on a specific animal. Just about every animal has a symbolic meaning associated with it, and many appear in legends and folk tales. Native American culture, traditions, and beliefs are closely tied to nature, in particular to animals. For instance, eagle feathers symbolized bravery and courage – hence they were presented to warriors as tokens of their valor and were used in the headdresses worn by warriors and clan chiefs.
In addition, feathers of different birds had their own meanings. In general, feathers symbolized positivity, wisdom, and spiritual communication. They were often used in rituals and ceremonies, often for the purpose of purifying the area through positive spiritual energy. Two crossed arrows can also symbolize friendship, and as such make for great matching tattoos.įor Native Americans, feathers represented the spirit of birds. The bow and arrow were the weapon of choice for Native American hunters and warriors, and in many ways, arrows have become synonymous with this culture.Īrrow tattoos have a range of meanings, though generally, they tend to symbolize protection, perseverance, and direction. The traditional image of the dreamcatcher can be modified to express a particular value or meaning, for instance through the shape of the pattern inside the hoop – many people opt for replacing the traditional pattern with a heart-shaped or animal-shaped one. In tattoo art, there’s plenty of variation between dreamcatcher designs. They originate from the Ojibwa Chippewa tribe of Canada and the United States and they were believed to bring good dreams and ward off nightmares. This is likely the most popular choice, as dreamcatchers have become commonplace worldwide – not only as tattoos but as good luck charms and jewelry pieces.ĭreamcatchers take the shape of hoops, often adorned with feathers and beads, with woven patterns inside. If you’re looking for some inspiration, consider the following designs. There are plenty of designs and elements to choose from when planning a Native American-themed tattoo.
The tattooing process itself in Native American tribes usually involved using a sharpened instrument, such as a bone or a rock, to carve the design, and soot or natural dyes to stain the skin. In some Native American sub-cultures, tattoos were also of spiritual value – there were those who believed that the tattoo would work as a protective charm or endow the person with supernatural powers.Īnimals whose strengths or abilities the person wanted to emulate made for a common choice of design. Native American Tattoos often took the forms of markings that would serve to identify the person as a member of a specific tribe, each of which had different symbols.Īfter a victory in war or battle, warriors would sometimes receive tattoos to signify their victory. Tattoos in Native American CultureĪs with most early tribal cultures, the customs and traditions of many Native American tribes involved tattooing, either for ritual, aesthetic, or identification purposes. With extensive symbolic meaning stemming from a rich, fascinating culture, Native American tattoo designs are sure to make for awesome-looking, eye-catching tattoos. Tribal tattoos have always been a popular choice, and Native American tribal designs are no different.