Dragon Tattoo Meaning and Ideas
If you’re interested in getting a dragon tattoo, you may want to consider the symbolism and dragon tattoo meaning in cultures across the world. This article will go over how dragons are depicted across the globe.
A dragon is a legendary creature, typically portrayed as a giant, fire-breathing, scaly, and horned reptile with or without wings. They have been depicted in various ways throughout history and cultures worldwide. In some cultures, dragons were seen as gods while in others, they were seen as evil creatures that could breathe fire from their mouths and destroy villages. The meaning of the dragon tattoo is often courage, power, wisdom, or good luck because these are all traits associated with this mythical creature.
Dragon Symbolism in Western Culture
Dragons are powerful and ancient mythical creatures that have been a part of both eastern and western cultures for centuries. In some legends, dragons even represent Satan or evil. In western culture, dragons are often depicted as evil creatures due to their association with fire and their habit of dwelling on gold and jewels. In many tales, the dragon must be slain by a knight or other hero. The word dragon comes from the Greek word “drakon” which means “serpent.” In Christianity, the dragon symbolizes Satan.
Dragon Tattoo Meaning in Eastern Culture
In contrast to their western counterparts, Eastern cultures see dragons as wise creatures to be respected. From the mighty Chinese dragon to the Japanese Qilin, dragons have been praised in many East Asian cultures for a long time. In the East, dragons are powerful spiritual beings that bring good luck and fortune. Dragons in the East symbolize power, good luck, and fortune.
In China, people worshiped dragons during the Lunar New Year to bring them luck.
Chinese believed that those born during the Year of the Dragon were nobler than others. Chinese people also believed that if they wore dragon tattoos, they would live long lives without illness or injury. Dragons are often depicted as benevolent creatures who bring good luck to those who see them.
Dragon Symbolism in Celtic Culture
Dragons are a prevalent and recurring figure in Celtic mythology and folklore. The Celts believed in two different types of dragons: the Llewyrr (the benevolent) and the Llion (the malevolent). The Llewyrr was said to take on human form, while the Llion was always in its dragon form. They symbolize both wisdom and power, as well as greed and cruelty.
Like other dragons, the Celtic dragon is often depicted with three claws instead of four. This is because they are said to have lost one claw when they were battling a giant.
The red dragon tattoo is a symbol of power, luck, and fortune. The character of the red dragon varies from one culture to another. In some cultures, it can be seen as a symbol of evil, while in others, it is revered as a guardian. The most common use for the red dragon in Western culture is an emblem for Wales and other Celtic nations.
Colorful Dragon Tattoo Meaning
Dragons are often depicted in a variety of colors, and the significance given to different colors often depends on what an individual sees as a symbol.
- White: Purity, truth
- Red: Good fortune, luck
- Yellow: Fortune, power
- Black: Vengeance, struggle
- Blue: Freedom, protection, calm
Dragon Tattoo Ideas
To help you choose your next tattoo design, we found the best dragon tattoo ideas on Instagram and compiled them on this page.
Check them out here:
Dragon Tribal Tattoos
Japanese Dragon Tattoos
Chinese Dragon Tattoos
Celtic Dragon Tattoos
Red Dragon Tattoos
American Traditional Dragon Tattoos
Feminine Dragon Tattoos
