Meaning of Dragon Tattoos

Dragons are one of the most popular mythological creatures. The descend from various legends, telling tales of fire-breathing, winged creatures.

There are two different dragons that you’ll commonly see- the Eastern and the Western dragons. The Eastern dragons of the orient are seen as benevolent creatures who are the protectors of life, fertility, and good fortune. The Western dragons tend to be the evil creatures that destroy villages and guard hoards of treasure.

As a tattoo, dragons are usually represented in the form of the Eastern dragon and of oriental styles. Dragon tattoos are normally seen in black and commonly drawn with flames and fire. But, Japanese and Chinese dragon styles are usually pretty ornate and can be in color or black and white shades.

It’s up to you as to what dragon style you choose for your tattoo.Dragons are a popular tattoo among both men and woman, each person finding a different reason and symbolism behind the dragon.

Meaning of Dragon Tattoos:

Dragon tattoos can have different meanings to different people. It’s all depending on how you see the mythical creature and as to what design you choose. In general men tend to use dragon tattoos to represent:

  • Courage
  • Strength
  • Raw power and force
  • Wisdom and reason
  • Protectors of sacred items

Many men tend to associate with the dragon which is why they get dragon tattoos. Some men see themselves as guardians over loved ones, so since the dragon tends to symbolize protection, it fits the mold of a guardian. In general, woman tend to use dragon tattoos to represent:

  • Creator
  • Protector of life
  • Strength

Because woman are those who give birth, they can be seen as a creator of life. Women can associate with the dragon in terms of protection and children; in most cases, mothers will protect their children till the end. Women may see the strength of the dragon and see it embodied in themselves.

For the most part, there are many different meanings of a dragon tattoo, so each individual and each dragon will represent something a little different.

Chinese Dragon Tattoos:

Chinese dragons are the symbols of power and mystery as depicted in Eastern and Western legends. The dragon evoked fear and worship in man.

Although, there’s a bloodthirsty, medieval ferociousness in dragons, in oriental cultures, they see the mythical beast for its benevolent features. The dragon is the most common symbol of identity for Far Eastern cultures.

Types of Oriental dragons include:

  • The horned dragon is seen as the mightiest dragon.
  • The Celestial Dragon is the dragon that supports the heavens and protects the Gods.
  • The Earth Dragon rules the earth.
  • The Spiritual Dragon controls wind and rain.
  • The Treasure Dragon is the keep or precious metals and gems.
  • The Winged Dragon is the only one depicted with wings.
  • The Coiling Dragon lives in the oceans.
  • The Yellow Dragon is the hornless dragon known for knowledge.

Tribal Dragon Tattoo Meaning:

The characteristics of tribal dragon tattoos is that these tribal tattoos are either surrounded by or composed of the curving lines that are typically associated with tribal tattoos. Hence the dragon tattoos done using the tribal tattoo style are simplified. However, these tattoos do not lose their impact. They are in fact, very large and fierce looking and also deliver a very strong visual impact. The meaning of the tribal dragon tattoo will depend on, which tribal tattoo art is combined with these dragon tattoos.

Tiger Dragon Tattoo Meaning:

In the oriental culture, dragons are seen as the defenders and the tiger are said to be the offenders. If a dragon is placed over the tiger, it symbolizes that the wearer of the tattoo will triumph over dark forces and they will continue to defend the same. If a tiger and a dragon are shown wrestling it is representation of the individuals aggressiveness coupled with disregard for others and their property. On the other hand, if the dragon and the tiger are facing off on the same level is said to be the Yin Yang symbol, because opposing forces equal each other out. Here’s more information on dragon tattoo designs for women.

Now that you are armed with dragon tattoo meanings, choose a dragon tattoo which suits your personality the best. You can also seek help from the tattoo artist for the same. Remember, it is going to be a permanent imprint on your body, so be sure of the tattoo symbolism and then get it made.

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