Evidence of homo sapiens tattooing dates back to 3370 BC, more than 5000 years ago in otzi, the iceman, making it one of the oldest art forms known. are still practiced.
Nowadays, people get tattoos for various reasons.
for some, it’s a cultural rite of passage; other people simply appreciate the beauty of body art.
and dr. jacob t. meyers, an emory university associate professor who studies emerging expressions of faith and practice, once described tattoos as “road maps” marking a person’s spiritual journey.
In that spirit, we’ve selected this list of 47 spiritual tattoos.
47 Gorgeous Spiritual Tattoo Ideas
1. 7 color chakras
Chakra tattoos come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. This medium sized example runs up the arm and incorporates all the colors and symbols of the chakras.
If you’re looking for spiritual tattoos that promote balance, something like this can be a great option.
2. just chakra
Is there a particular chakra that is special to you? instead of getting all seven, choose one to highlight.
They look great on the inside of the wrist, where they can serve as constant visual reminders. or maybe you want to put it on your foot or leg, somewhere you can see while in the lotus position.
3. black ink lotus
Lotus flowers rise from the mud, unblemished, and represent purity, rebirth and strength. they are a predominant spiritual symbol, especially in the Buddhist tradition.
This attractive lotus foot tattoo is both simple and intricate. If you are looking for small spiritual tattoos, this design can be easily scaled down.
4. lotus spine art with chakra symbols
chakra points run along our spinal cord. some people get the symbols tattooed on their backs to commemorate their presence.
This elegant design incorporates a lotus flower on top with a cascading set of chakras. choose a color that has meaning to you or use all the colors of the chakras.
5. purple lotus with butterflies
Do your tastes lean towards feminine spiritual tattoos? Would you like something that is traditionally feminine?
if so, you might fall in love with this purple lotus with butterflies. would look great in any bold color, or a black ink outline would work too.
6. colorful and intricate hamsa hand
Are you interested in spiritual hand tattoos, also known as hamsa and hand of fatima designs? The palm-shaped amulet is ubiquitous throughout the Middle East and Africa and is believed to ward off the evil eye. as such, it is a popular tattoo.
There are too many awesome hamsa tattoos to choose from. so here is a general selection of the symbol. As you can imagine, people get creative with what they put into their hands.
7. overcoming obstacles
People who prefer simple spiritual tattoos may like the universal symbol of overcoming obstacles. they are just two lines of three triangular peaks and can be easily increased or decreased. get it in black ink or the color of your choice.
8. sanskrit single ink symbol “breathe”
Because it is a character-based language, Sanskrit provides a wealth of tattoo ideas.
The Sanskrit symbol for breath is especially attractive and is a great reminder to take life as it comes. control what you can and do what comes naturally (as long as it doesn’t harm others).
9. single ink dragon
Dragons have spiritual significance for many people and are also important cultural landmarks in some Asian communities.
According to various schools of thought, dragons are linked to wisdom, supernatural powers, strength, and occult knowledge. this strong dragon design would work on arms, legs and back.
10. “son of the universe”
Sometimes words say it better than a picture. This son of the universe tattoo is a simple statement that speaks volumes.
If you believe that everyone tries to do their best, including you, it may be a suitable tattoo.
11. single ink sanskrit “om” symbol
The Sanskrit symbol “om” (or “aum”) is attractive and meaningful. various faith schools have slightly different definitions for the entity.
However, in general terms, om is a vocal and written representation of universal consciousness.
12. a symbol of inner peace
Various spiritual paths use different symbols to represent inner peace and related emotions. Pick something from this handy chart and incorporate it into a tattoo.
13. unalome soul evolution symbol
The unalome symbol recounts the soul’s journey from birth to enlightenment. it’s a delicate symbol that works well as a tattoo.
14. kundalini serpent art
According to kundalini thought, a coiled serpent, representative of divine feminine energy, is coiled at the base of each column.
The goal is to unwind it along your chakra points and have that energy rise up to your higher self. Plus, they’re great for dramatic spiritual tattoos.
15. human yin-yang tattoo
A twist on the yin-yang symbol, this human-focused one may be perfect for someone looking for a spiritual tattoo for balance.
It’s cool and reminds us that we’re all humans trying to navigate the mostly mysterious universe.
16. the spiral
Simple and majestic, the spiral is a great symbol to incorporate into tattoos of spiritual awakening.
The ancient concept reminds us that life is a long, winding and repetitive journey, and that to truly know ourselves, we must look within to see the divine.
17. hidden egyptian eye
Known as the “wadjet”, the “eye of horus” and the “all seeing eye”, it first appeared in ancient egypt and is believed by many to ward off evil.
Because of the design and shape, they can be inked almost anywhere. we loved this one on the inside of a finger.
18. our solar system
Do you find magic in astrology? then check out this solar system tattoo. the detail is fantastic and the design artfully incorporates energetic connections between certain planetary entities.
19. angel numbers
Do you want to keep your guardian angels close? Or maybe you want to honor them for stepping in when you need them most?
Whatever the case, a discreet 333 (the number of angels) would work. take a look at this delicate accented by stars.
20. temporary henna decals
Not ready to commit to a permanent tattoo? take a look at these temporary henna decals. the mandalas look super placed on the foot.
henna is a great DIY project to do alone or with friends.
21. colorful elephant lotus
Elephants are amazing animals and feature prominently in many spiritual traditions.
A symbol of strength and good fortune, elephants are gentle giants that exhibit innate nurturing tendencies. This beautiful elephant tattoo incorporates various mandalas and a lotus.
22. celtic love symbol
The Celtic love symbol is a simple design that represents the six aspects of worship: mind, body, love, peace, joy and spirit.
Because of its shape, it is easy to incorporate with other spiritual symbols, especially within mandalas.
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23. tree of life with the colors of the chakras
Tree of life tattoos can be beautiful, and this one incorporates the colors of the chakras. symbolizes our natural roots and celebrates the various paths we travel throughout our lives.
24. hand of fatima evil eye
This is another tattoo of the hand of fatima that we couldn’t pass up. the palette of blue is striking, as is the real eye in the palm of it. If blue is not your tone, consider modifying it with reds, oranges, pinks or greens.
25. egyptian astrology tattoo
You probably know your cosmic astrological sign, but do you know your Egyptian astrological symbol? Instead of calculating by month, Egyptian astrology is determined by the week you were born.
discover yours and incorporate it into your spiritual tattoo art.
26. eye am ideation
The essence of existence is being, which is why the phrase “I am” has become a common saying in spiritual and self-improvement circles.
This tattoo is a twist on the phrase, with an eye of horus representing the “i”. this ranks among the most innovative spiritual awakening tattoos.
27. minimalist dragonfly
Dragonflies are another popular animal in the spirit realm. they represent change, transformation, self-realization and adaptability.
They are a great option for people who want to celebrate an incredible change in their lives. we loved this minimalist dragonfly for its lines and simplicity.
28. large and colorful dragonfly
some people like simple things and others are crazy about details. this dragonfly tattoo is aimed at the latter group. it’s big, bold, beautiful and colorful.
29. geometric mandalas
The art of mandalas has been around for thousands of years. its symmetry is seductive and attractive and symbolizes the balance of life.
This geometric mandala tattoo is different from the average because it also incorporates triangles.
30. colorful mandala shoulder art
This ornate mandala tattoo on the shoulder is magnificent. if you go for something like this, expect to have a few sessions to get the color right.
31. colorful mandala sleeve
Looking for something with a little more coverage? check out this colorful mandala case. the art and detail are incredible.
But before you go ahead with a design like this, think carefully about colors and come up with something you can live with, day in and day out.
32. single ink first nations dream catcher
Dreamcatchers are a recognizable part of First Nations culture. Before inking one on your body, it’s polite to do some research to make sure your tattoo plans aren’t inadvertently offensive.
if all signs say yes, have fun.
33. eye in the sky in the hand
This metaphysical eye in the sky tattoo is an option for people who are attracted to the omniscient energy of the source. It is an elaborate design, but striking and unique.
34. early symbols of Egyptian culture
This attractive tattoo incorporates various symbols from early Egyptian art. the detail is incredible, and the flow is excellent.
35. sacred geometry
Numbers and mathematics play a fundamental role in the system of the universe. celebrate the beauty of ancient formulas with one of these sacred geometric shapes.
36. great hindu gods and goddesses
Looking for something bold, big, and on your back? This body mural of various Hindu symbols tells a story and pays homage. Plus, it’s a topic of conversation.
37. buddha with waves
Are you connected to the ocean? Do the waves speak to your soul? If so, this spiritual buddha tattoo with waves may be for you. The style of the art mimics the style of Katsushika Hokusai’s The Great Wave off Kanagawa.
38. delicate phases of the moon and mother nature
These delicate moon phase designs work well in the hand, but can also look great on the back, arm or legs. consider getting the moon phase as it was on the day of your birth.
39. teach peace
The Dali Lama advises people to “be the change you want to see in the world.” this “teach peace” tattoo is a reminder of that mantra.
The combination of “teaching” and “peace” is amazing, and the tree can be customized to your liking. however, we love the one in the photo.
40. the cosmos and nature
This unique tattoo incorporates the cosmos, earthly growth, and the all-knowing eye in the sky.
We love this one as it has a lighter, more carefree feel. There is something almost adorably childish about this cosmos and nature tattoo.
41. astronomical sign tattoo
what’s your sign? declare it with a tattoo. we dug this one with the ancient roman crowns surrounding a word. it’s simple yet bold.
42. awareness
This awareness tattoo has many elements. It almost has a fantasy novel feel and speaks to the duality of the human soul.
43. mandala heart
Do you want something traditional and delicate? This mandala heart tattoo is a sweet and spiritual tattoo that would fit almost anywhere. you can also add color.
44. coordinated angelina tattoos
Sometimes celebrities inspire us. take angelina jolie tattoos. she has a lot, and they all mean different things. but we are attracted by the coordinates of the birthplaces of her children. get one for yourself or someone you love.
45. tarot card art
If tarot reading is your specialty, why not get a tattoo of a specific card? the possibilities are endless in terms of design, colors and size.
46. goddess tattoos
Keep a goddess close to protect you from the pitfalls of life. we love this one for the details and flowing lines. it has an ethereal vibe that works for spiritual tattoos.
47. cosmic consciousness
You may not be 100% sure what you believe, but the outer cosmos fascinates you. check out this simple yet artistic rendering of a constellation if that sounds like your speed. the colors are great, and you can get it in any shape.
It’s not for everyone, but if it’s for you, we hope our gallery of mind, body and soul tattoos has inspired you to commemorate your personal spiritual awakening through body art. we know it will look great.
