Holy Cross Tattoos – Mirrors of Faith

If cross pendants are present in every Christian household, no matter if Orthodox, Catholic or Protestant, and almost all the believers have such a piece of jewelry, not the same can be said about holy cross tattoos Tattoos in general used to be for Christians taboo. Yet, society has changed and what used to be forbidden in the past is today customary.

A holy cross tattoo, better described as a Christian cross tattoo, differs from its esoteric relative depicted as a cross in a circle. This representation has a grave connotation, being intended to remind humankind that the power and will of God is above each and every one. This cross has equal arms and it is also a symbol for the Earth and its evolutionary cycle. The encircled cross is often found in the tattooing art, but is not considered as being a holy cross pattern. The Christian cross with, or without a crucified Christ, is the familiar cross tattoo archetype.

Christ's martyr transformed the memory of a cruel and barbaric execution into a symbol of holy sacrifice. The cross of His crucifixion was subject of sanctified beliefs, Christians having faith in its holy powers. The ones tattooed with crosses that show Jesus crucified bear this icon as a symbol of their devotion. Angel and cross tattoos dominate the tattooing market, although the Church has still a lot to say against such a practice.

Such religious patterns are more than a trend and often can be found in circumstances that have nothing or little to do with the moral values and ethical standards dictated by the Christian religion. Tattoos shaped as holy crosses are common among gangs and prisoners who believe that such images can give them protection.

One thing is clear: religious tattoos have more than a decorative role, being mirrors and expressions of the Christian faith.

 

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