Praying Hands Tattoo

Among the various aspects of a tattoo, one of the most important is its permanent nature. Although one can debate that tattoo removal is possible and can be effectively carried out, it is rather painful and hence, it is advisable to give a serious thought before having any tattoo design made on one's body. If you are a first timer, you might have found literally thousands of designs and symbols that can be used for making tattoos. However, if you wish to have a classic tattoo design that has a great symbolic meaning, you can go for the praying hands tattoo as it is one of the best and most popular tattoo designs today. Let us take a look at the meaning or significance, along with some design ideas for this tattoo.

Meaning
Hands joined for praying needs neither any description nor explanation. One can easily associate it with religion and spirituality. Prayer is considered as a sacred practice, and hence, a praying hand tattoo can be inscribed to portray the person's religious beliefs and attitude. However, one may not be aware, but, this tattoo is inspired from one of the most famous paintings in the world, 'The Praying Hands' by Albrecht Durer. Several replicas of this masterpiece can be found in various parts of the world today. The legend behind this painting and consequently the tattoo is quite interesting.

The painter Albrecht Durer belonged to a family with limited means, where it was impossible for his father to support his advanced studies in art. Therefore, Albrecht and his brother Albert made a pact. One among the two brothers would go to the university for studying advanced art and the other would work in the mines to support him. After four years, the one completing academics would have to support the other to complete his studies. Accordingly, Albrecht Durer completed his studies in four years while his brother, Albert, toiled hard in the mines. After the completion of four years, Albrecht Durer was one of the best artists who was considered even better than many of his professors. He made a considerable amount of money so that his brother Albert could pursue his studies. However, when Albrecht met his brother on homecoming, he saw his brother kneeling down and praying. He was horrified to see his brother's hand as they were battered and bruised due to hard work. His brother tearfully told him that it was too late and he could no longer hold a glass in his land, let alone a paint brush! Albrecht Durer immortalized the praying hands of his brother Albert which later became one of the best paintings and one of the most renowned designs in the world.

Designs
This tattoo design is mostly made as a replica of the masterpiece. However, it can be modified a bit according to your creativity and preference. Praying hands with rosary beads is yet another popular tattoo design. In some parts of the world, this tattoo are also made in the memory of loved ones. In that case, you can inscribe the person's name at the base of the tattoo design. These tattoos look more attractive if made in blue, black or gray shades rather than the colorful one! As the tattoo is usually made in large size, it is better to have it made on the shoulder, back or the upper arm. Also, praying hands tattoo can be made by both, men as well as women.

One of the biggest advantages of having this tattoo is that it will never be looked down upon by people. On the contrary, it might even contribute in enhancing a person's image and help him express his thoughts freely!