Turtle tattoos are popular these days for a few simple reasons. We love turtles for their grace and beauty. You will find these peaceful creatures all over the world in rivers, ponds, lakes, and oceans.
There are many turtle tattoo designs out there to choose from. Tribal turtle tattoos are prevalent and seen most often in dark ink. True to life turtle tattoos are fun to ink and offer you many different poses and color choices.
Some people chose turtle tattoos for their looks and special meanings. The most common meaning here is longevity and determination. Other popular symbolic meanings associated with turtles are wisdom, spirituality, healing powers, protection, and safety. Native Americans believe that the turtle had its part in creating the planet. Let us explore more.
Meanings Of Turtle Tattoos
In many cultures, the turtle is a symbol of longevity, protection, order, and creation. The turtle is a water creature and considered to be a symbol of creation and the afterlife. Because turtle’s shell is divided into thirteen sections, people believed it depicts the moon’s thirteen phases in a year. Let us explore more on the symbolism of turtle tattoos.
Native American Culture
According to Native American folklore, the turtle carried the weight of the earth on its back.
In the Lakota tribe, the turtle spirit symbolizes health and longevity. Because of that, they used to put a beaded turtle on the umbilicus or the crib of newborn girls for protection and long life.
According to the Zuni legend, turtles represent and bring in fertility and longevity. The tribe believed that medicine bags with turtles could prolong life and conquer death; hence, individuals from the Zuni clan carried the bags.
Japanese Culture
The Japanese people revere the turtle in various forms, so much so that they honor it with depictions in art and literature. Various myths and legends are associated with it as well.
Symbolically, it represents longevity, wisdom, and fortune.
Chinese Culture
According to Taoism, the turtle shell symbolizes heaven, and its flat underside, the earth. People believed that the turtle was the bearer of secrets of heaven and earth. Hence, their shells were used in ceremonies to predict the future.
Feng Shui, ancient art and science, considers the turtle as one of the four guardians of the compass. It is believed that a picture or figurine of a turtle will bring prosperity and wealth to the family. To protect the family, they used to place these figurines and images at the back of the house.
Other Cultures
According to Hindu mythology, the all-powerful God Vishnu took the form of a turtle and placed the mountain on his back to act as a foundation stone when the gods and demons churned the waters to obtain the nectar of immortality.
Turtle Tattoo Designs & Ideas
Turtle Tattoos with Flowers
Small Turtle Tattoos
Turtle Tattoos on Arm
Turtle Tattoos on Forearm
Cute Turtle Tattoos
Turtle Tattoos for Guys
Turtle Tattoos on Foot & Leg
Pair of Tribal Turtle Tattoos
These beautiful turtles tattooed on the feet in a tribal image are very cool.
Tribal Turtle Tattoo
Tribal turtles like this one in a tribal razor pattern are very popular and look great anywhere on the body.
Cartoon Style Turtle Tattoos with Name
Cartoon turtles are a fun design to make and are very popular with kids.
Swimming Turtle Tattoo
This is a cool example of a cartoon turtle with great detail and movement; great tattoo!
Realistic Turtle Tattoo
This turtle has a realistic look and the coloring work is superb.
Turtle Tattoos with Oriental Lettering
Here is an example of a simple but very cool small turtle with a personal touch. There is also obvious oriental influence in the design.
Paired Turtles on the Hip
Turtles in dark ink on the waist have a mysterious meaning and look great.
