Compass tattoo: photo and meaning

The compass tattoo is one of the classic designs that continues to be popular among tattoo lovers. The compass, as a symbol, carries deep meanings and associations, which makes it attractive to many people.

The compass is often associated with direction, travel and orientation in life. It symbolizes the desire for new horizons, the search for one’s own path and confidence in the chosen directions. A compass tattoo can have different interpretations depending on the context and design, but at its core is the idea of ​​finding one's place in the world and striving for self-realization.

History and Meaning

History of the use of the compass in tattoos

The compass tattoo has ancient roots and is associated with sea travel. In navigation, the compass was used to determine direction and ensure safety during navigation. In tattoos, the compass is often associated with sailors and their long voyages across the ocean. Over time, the compass has become a symbol not only of sea travel, but also of an internal journey in search of the meaning of life and one’s place in the world.

Compass Tattoo Meanings

1. Travel and Discovery: The compass is often associated with the idea of ​​travel and discovery. A compass tattoo can symbolize the desire for new adventures, exploration of unknown places and spiritual journeying.
2. Spiritual Direction: For some people, the compass is a symbol of spiritual direction and the search for truth. A compass tattoo can be an expression of faith and confidence in the chosen path.
3. Protection and Safety: The compass is also associated with protection and safety. In tattoos, it can symbolize the desire to always be on the right path and protected from life's difficulties.
4. Self-determination: A compass tattoo can express a desire for self-determination and self-understanding. It can symbolize the desire to find your place in the world and determine your life goals and values.

Thus, a tattoo in the form of a compass carries deep symbolic meanings that reflect a person’s desire for travel, spiritual growth and self-knowledge.

The meaning of the compass tattoo and the cardinal points

Cardinal points on the compass take on different meanings depending on cultures and religious beliefs, and the context in which they appear. For example, there are exactly four Sumerian-Semitic gods and they are combined with four cardinal points. In other cultures, we even find the fifth cardinal point, as in the Chinese, which represents balance, that dimension to which every person should strive and aspire. Perhaps not everyone knows that there is also a Masonic compass with 5 cardinal points, symbolizing the need to navigate in life and achieve balance.

As we said, each side of the world has a different meaning depending on the culture to which it belongs. Let's take a look at them in turn:

The meaning of the NORTH side of the world

This is usually a cardinal point that represents cold, darkness, land of the dead... For Chinese culture, in addition to the north and cold, it symbolizes water, yin and fear, but also primordial chaos. However, for the ancient Egyptians, the north personified light, masculine strength and was represented by Hopi, a god with a baboon's head. In the same way, the Hindus associate the north with the light and positive of the day.

The meaning of the SOUTH side of the world

Exactly the opposite of the north, the south represents in most cultures light, youth, day... With the exception of the Egyptians and Hindus, who attribute the south to darkness, death and the abode of evil spirits.

See also: Tattoos with the Unalome symbol, meaning and ideas for inspiration

The meaning of the EASTERN cardinal

The East is the land of the rising sun, so it represents rebirth, dawn, renewal. This is a cardinal point dedicated to the sun gods: in China, he represents a green dragon, in Egypt - a man, in Mexico - a large crocodile, and in Tibet - a half-human and half-dragon figure.

The meaning of the WEST side of the world

If the east personifies rebirth and spring, then the west is the extreme point of autumn, the dying sun, middle age. Practically in every culture, the west is associated with death, with the fact that dies... For the American Indians, however, the west was the seat of the god of thunder, while the Chinese portrayed the west with a white tiger. For the Egyptians, the west was symbolized by the god with the head of a falcon, personifying the west.

While individually the four cardinal points may appear to be mostly negative, in general the compass is a positive orienting object that in the past served as a primary task for sailors and soldiers and has not always been replaced today. reliable GPS.

Un compass tattoo it also represents the ability concentrate themselves and situations, giving due weight to the events of life. It is also a helpful reminder to stay focused in life, in the right direction, towards your dreams.

Designs and Styles

Variety of Compass Tattoo Designs

A compass tattoo provides a huge field for creativity and an individual approach to design. Here are some of the most popular designs:

1. Realistic compass: design that imitates a real compass with fine details and shadows creating the illusion of reality.
2. Geometric compass: using geometric shapes such as circles, triangles and lines to create a unique and stylish compass design.
3. Water colors: compass tattoo using water flowers, which gives it the effect of lightness and transparency.
4. Minimalist Design: simple and concise design of the compass, emphasizing its symbolic meaning without frills.
5. Symbolic compass: a design that incorporates other symbols such as birds, flowers or quotes to enhance its meaning and meaning to the wearer.

Popular styles

1. Traditional style: bright colors, clear contours and classic elements that make the design expressive and easily recognizable.
2. New school: bright colors, non-standard shapes and detailing, giving the design liveliness and dynamics.
3. Black and gray technique: using shades of gray and black to create depth and dimension, making the design more realistic and impactful.
4. Geometric Style: using geometric shapes and lines to create an abstract and stylish compass design.

Thus, a compass tattoo provides a huge scope for creativity and an individual approach to design, which makes it popular among tattoo lovers.

Symbolism and Interpretation

Elements of the compass and their symbolic meaning

1. Arrows: Compass arrows are often associated with direction and choosing a path in life. They can symbolize determination and confidence in the chosen actions.
2. Rose of Wind: The compass rose points in different directions, which can symbolize the many possibilities and choices in life. This element may also reflect flexibility and the ability to adapt to change.
3. Numbers and divisions: numbers and divisions on a compass can indicate time frames and planning for life goals. They can remind you of the importance of time and how to properly manage it to achieve success.

The influence of a compass tattoo on self-perception and life position

A compass tattoo can have deep emotional and symbolic meaning for the wearer. It can be a reminder of goals and dreams to pursue, or a symbol of faith in your abilities and capabilities.

For some people, a compass tattoo can be a source of inner strength and self-confidence, helping them navigate life and make important decisions. It can also serve as a reminder of the importance of travel and discovery, both external and internal.

Popularity and Trends

Conclusion

A compass tattoo is not only a beautiful decoration on the body, but also a powerful symbol that carries deep meanings. She represents the desire to travel, spiritual direction and protection. The variety of compass designs and styles allows each person to find their own unique image that reflects their inner beliefs and values.

The symbolism of the compass continues to inspire and captivate people in getting tattoos because it reminds us of the importance of our goals and dreams, as well as the need to stay true to ourselves and our beliefs. A compass tattoo becomes a reminder that our journey through life is not only a search, but also an adventure that we ourselves create.

Thus, a compass tattoo not only decorates the body, but also fills it with meaning, helping us navigate the world and remain true to our ideals.