Tribal Tattoos are a now trend. There are quite a number of people, both men and women, who are getting these tattoos. This is because some designs are really cool, creative and very striking. Individuals have varied reasons for getting inked. For men, it is machismo. Women also think it gives a sultry appearance. And tattoos, no matter what reason one has these, really catch attention. These get second glances or even a good stare from others.
But where did it begin? How did tribal tattoos come to being? Tribal Tattoos serve as an identification of a certain tribe. These are some kind of trademark, identity or signature of an ethnic group. They are rich in symbols and images. This is what makes any Tribal Tattoos mysterious in some way. The symbolism gives not just a literal meaning but also speaks of the culture and belief of the group.
It was said that Tribal Tattoo began before the spread of civilization. Though Tattoo is Polynesian in origin but like love, it is universally practiced by many tribes from different continents all over the world. The custom is practiced based on their way of life. In Polynesia, it is a mark of Puberty when a person has a tattoo on the body. A tribe in Australia used tattoos as an indication that the person had been adopted into the family. Infants in Kabyles, a tribe in Algeria, are tattooed by their mothers as a way of recognizing them.
Another significant purpose of a tattoo is bravery. This is aside from the literal pain that you would experience because they used a knife and chisel to carve the symbol. A warrior in a specific tribe has a tattoo that will display his courage. It is like a medal received after the success of a warrior.
Some tattoos served as wedding bands. A man and woman are identified as married because of their tattoos. It could be good in a way because you won't lose it from your body unlike a wedding ring, which can easily be taken off.
Other tattoos speak of royalty and elegance. The head of a tribe has his specific tattoo, including his family. Tattoos for tribe leaders serve like a crown. Their tattoos give them respect and authority over their tribe. It also gives them dignity.
There are still other tribes across the globe that use tattoos as a symbol of their faith. Some put tattoos on the dead bodies of their members. In as much as it signifies grief and respect, it is part of their belief system in the after life.
It is only wise then for anyone to know the meaning or representation of the pattern he is choosing. After all, tattoos are more than just a fad. They reflect the origin and belief of a certain tribe. Remember also that designs can be mysterious because of the images. And wearing a tattoo can either make you stand proud or shrink because you know the meaning of it after you have it inked.
