Bull Tattoo Meaning of Power and Strength
Bull tattoos are symbolic of masculinity as far as the Samoans are concerned. Samoa’s rich history and cultural diversity has ensured that the art of tattooing, first introduced more than two thousand years ago in Samoa, has burgeoned into a global movement! Tatau, the Samoan word for tattoo, portrays correctness and workmanlike traits. These two traits have led to the concept of tattoos being masculine, and bull tattoos, more so! Apart of its rich cultural magnificence, why should one give attention to the various vagaries of the Samoans? And what do they have to do with the concept of bull tattoos?
Bull Tattoos Meaning
The bull is associated with several symbolism and meanings, which makes it one of the most popular tattoo designs today. The most prominent meaning of the bull tattoo is strength and vitality. We all are aware that the bull is an epitome of power, aggression and force and hence, people who believe that they too share the similar qualities; sport bull tattoos. Interestingly, the bull is symbolized as both, positive as well as a negative figure in different cultures. For e.g., in certain cultures, it symbolizes force of nature, a guardian like figure, etc.; while on the other hand, it stands for death or is even considered as a bad omen. However, in most parts of the world, the bull is looked upon as a sign of strength.
On the other hand, the bull is a symbol of the zodiac sign Taurus. Hence, people belong to the sun signs Taurus, i.e., individuals born in between 20th April to 21st May; sport bull tattoos. Similar to the bull, Taurus individuals are marked by their characteristic stubbornness. They are also loving, peaceful individuals who tend to be dominating at times. Although bull tattoos are considered as purely masculine ones; a Taurus tattoo can be sported by men and women alike. The Brahma bull tattoo which is sported by a wrestler cum actor Dwayne Johnson, better known as ‘the Rock’ has gained a lot of popularity and is one of the most sought after tattoo designs these days.
The Strong and Powerful Bull Tattoo
The bull means power, strength, masculinity and impulsiveness. It is a symbol that has been used throughout history in religion and mythology to represent masculinity, fertility, resurrection and is also the Zodiac sign for Taurus.
Cattle helped to change man’s future as it was one of the first domesticated animals and helped to provide regular food, mild and clothing. On the farm, the bull represents strength and power, and is usually regarded with fear, or at least caution.
The sacrifice of a bull was common in many nations as winter turned to spring, as the bull’s blood was thought to nourish the earth and bring good crops. The bull is still widely recognized as a wild animal that needs to be tamed and domesticated so it can help man.
In many cultures the bull was associated with death. Because of the bull’s strength many believed that the bull carried the world on its back, but when it got rowdy it would toss the world around and when the world landed on its horns it would cause earthquakes.
Of course in Greek mythology the bull is a very prominent figure, in the story of King Minos and the minotaur. He built a Labyrinth underneath his castle to contain the white bull that was sent by the gods and every year sacrificed seven youths and maidens. One year Theseus arrived and killed the creature, then rescued the victims and sailed home.
Bull Tattoo Designs
If you have decided to ink a bull tattoo, you will come across several different designs of the bull in different forms. An angry or raging bull digging the ground is the most common one. Peaceful and calm bull, the bull running towards something, charging bull, etc. are the other bull tattoo designs. On the other hand, most people rather hand only the head of the bull inscribed on their bodies rather than the entire body.
Tribal or Celtic bull tattoos are also equally popular. When thinking of the placement of a bull tattoo, one should remember to have it made on upper arms, shoulders or the back as this tattoo needs a lot of space. Also, if you are a first timer or otherwise, you should remember that tattoo making and tattoo removal, both can be painful. Therefore, you should put a lot of thought before going for a permanent tattoo.