Buddhist Tattoos

One of the major religions in the world is Buddhism. The foundation of Buddhism was laid by Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who was later known as 'Gautama Buddha'. As the name suggests, Gautama Buddha was a prince of Kapilvastu, which now belongs to Nepal. Though he owned all the worldly pleasures, he abandoned them all and set to decrease the sorrow of the world. His teachings became world famous, in fact Buddhism is based on those teachings. The term 'Buddha' means the one who has attained enlightenment. Buddhist tattoos are based mainly on the teachings of Buddha or the things related to him.

Buddhist Tattoo Ideas

As earlier stated, these tattoos are mostly based on his teachings, though Buddhism is a lot associated with Hinduism as Gautama Buddha was born in Hindu religion, Buddhism does not contain images of god and goddesses. However they are based on Hindu religion. Some of the major Buddhist tattoo designs are as follows.

The Dharma Wheel
The Dharma wheel, actually known as Dharmachakra, is one of the most important symbol of Buddhism. The Dharmachakra, which is also known as the Wheel of Truth and law, represents some of the major teachings of Buddha. The wheel has eight spokes and each spoke stands for a major teaching, which are collectively known as the 'Eightfold Path'. Each of the teaching of the eightfold path is inter-related to each other, divided into three basic divisions, viz. wisdom, ethical conduct and mental development. Following are the eight spokes of the Dharmachakra.

• Right View
• Right Intention
• Right Speech
• Right Action
• Right Livelihood
• Right Effort
• Right Mindfulness
• Right Concentration

The meaning of each of the spoke is clear from its name itself. You can get the Dharma wheel either on the arm or on the upper back. Though this is not a large design, it is quite detailed and so it should be done on an extensive area.

Lotus
Lotus flower tattoos are one of the most popular tattoos. Lotus flower tattoos generally symbolize growth and beauty in spite of unfavorable, drastic conditions. But Buddhist lotus tattoos have different meanings. In fact, different colored lotuses have unique meanings. For example, the very famous pink lotus represents Buddha. In most of the pictures of Buddha, he is shown seated on a pink lotus, so it is regarded as the symbol of Buddha itself. Red lotus symbolizes the purity of heart, it represents a heart which does not indulge in cheating and betraying. On the other hand, white lotus symbolizes purity of body and mind. This is also one of the four noble truths of Buddhism. Last but not the least, the blue lotus symbolizes victory over physical longing and wisdom. Now that you know all the lotus Buddhist tattoo meanings, you can get one for yourself, depending on what you wish to represent. You can also depict a blend of two-three lotuses together.

Mandala Wheels
Mandalas are one of the most important symbols of Buddhism. Like Dharma wheel, mandala are also wheels, however they do not have eight spokes. Mandalas are intricate geometrical figures. These beautiful wheels represent the universe. The rings are used to represent the layers of the universe. Mandalas are often used during meditations, for increasing focus. So, if you believe in the essence of the universe and meditation, you can get a Mandala wheel done.

Chattra
Chattra, i.e. the parasol is one of the Buddhist tattoos for protection. Chattra which is basically a form of huge umbrella, protects one from the scorching sun, basically from all the extreme changes. The Chattra was generally held on top of dignitaries and so it is also regarded as a symbol of honor and royalty. In Tibet, parasols were entitled to dignitaries according to their position and status. Secular rulers were entitled with embroidered peacock feathers and religious heads with silk ones.

Buddhist tattoos are not only beautiful, but also meaningful. So if you are bugged with the typical tattoo designs, you can go for these unique tattoos!