Cross Tattoos

Cross Tattoos: History and Faith

Rich in history and shrouded in mystery, the cross has prevailed through the ages and remains one of the oldest and most commonly used symbols by man. Although legend and speculation abound as to its origins as well as its overriding popularity, no one really knows for sure exactly how, when or where the cross originated.
While Christianity and in turn Christian tattoo enthusiasts have come to regard the cross as a symbol of religious faith and the crucifixion, this isn’t always the case in the tattoo world; the Christian cross is just one of several different types used in designing cross tattoos.  It is more likely the mysterious aura of the symbol that acts as such a powerful magnet to tattoo enthusiasts all over the world irrespective of faith or religious beliefs.

Take a look at some of the more popular cross tattoo designs and what they stand for:

Christian Cross

Also known as the Latin cross, the Christian cross design is one of the most instantly recognizable in the world. It typically features a vertical line intersected by a shorter horizontal line that is placed at right angles approximately 1/3rd of the distance from the top. This simple, non-elaborate design of the cross is often accompanied by religious quotes; proclamations of faith or memorials to loved ones or images of the Sacred Heart or Jesus on the cross. Its sheer simplicity and versatility make this a good choice for a first-timer tattoo.

Celtic Cross Tattoo
Iconic images of the Irish, Scottish and Welsh places where they originated from, Celtic cross tattoos are by far the most popular of all cross tattoo designs. They typically represent the continuing cycle of life through intertwining knots and other designs on the cross which are intentionally designed not to have a beginning or end to represent that cycle. The knot at the center of the cross represents the connection between the spiritual and physical realms that play a role in that life.

Gothic Cross
Heavily adorned and with beveled edges that resemble the Gothic iron design, Gothic crosses evoke dark imagery and are typically used as symbols of anger, grief, pain and the presence of death. Two of the most common examples of Gothic cross designs are a cross entwined with barbed wire and a cross that doubles as a dagger.
Iron Cross
This cross, which has four equal prongs that flare at their tips, is largely associated with World War II Germany but it has long been a symbol for valor and commitment in times of war as well.

Greek Cross
Also known as the Russian cross, this type was first used by Byzantine artists. It is similar to the traditional cross but has a small bar above the main bar of the cross and a diagonal beam at its bottom. The extra bar at the top represents the sign placed over Jesus which bore the legend “Iesus Nazerenus Rex ludaeorum”, which is Latin for Jesus of Nazareth king of the Jews. The significance of the diagonal bar at the bottom is uncertain but it has been attributed to the death of St Andrew who was crucified on a diagonal cross.