Tattoo elephant - meanings and symbols for girls and men, sketches, photo ideas

The elephant tattoo in modern European society is not very popular. But in Asia and Africa it is in demand and is often applied to the body of men and women. In India, the elephant is considered the embodiment of the divine presence of Ganesha, the god of wisdom and happiness - depicted with the head of this mighty animal. In addition, on the territory of this country in ancient times it was used as a transport for noblemen or an unstoppable weapon in times of war. But now it is ridden by tourists.

The most famous elephant was named Lin Wang, who died at 86 years old in Taiwan. But he is not the only long-lived specimen in Thailand's zoo, which contains a 78-year-old one. On average, they live 50-65 years, which is quite comparable to humans.

But elephants are distinguished not only by their long lifespan - they have a very large mass and differ from other mammals. There are individuals with a weight of 12 tons. Because of these dimensions, the elephant tattoo is popular among men, but women, too, often, apply it to the body. This is promoted by the obvious symbolism of this image.

The meaning of the elephant tattoo

The meaning of the elephant tattoo can be associated with maternal feelings. Giants carefully take care of their offspring for 10 or more years. The growing period of the fetus lasts, about, 2 years. This is necessary for the birth of a hardened cub - it must quickly stand on its feet and follow the herd to lean on its protection.

That is why this image is often applied during the period of waiting for the child. It reminds the mother of all the hardships and deprivations, but symbolizes the joyful expectation of an heir.

Relationship to Myths and Religion

Buddhists draw their knowledge from the teacher of Buddha. He really existed in blood and flesh and was a prince. His mother was Maya. While pregnant, the woman had a dream with a white elephant. He informed the queen that her child could change human destiny and bring a new teaching.

In addition, Hindus believe that the world rests on four elephants. Two of the giants have four tusks, because they are males. The other pair of elephants have no tusks, as they are females. Together they identify the four sides of the world.

Elephant tattoo for a girl

Any kind of elephant on a girl's body may additionally be associated with independence and superiority over a man. This symbolism is associated with matriarchy in elephant herds. Male elephants are rarely the leaders. Usually closer to reaching puberty, males leave the herd and become outcasts. They have to live on their own, but during the mating season they approach females to mate.

For this reason, men stab elephants to show their lack of desire, without having to be in the company of females.

However, Christians use the image of the elephant to demonstrate the self-sacrifice of Jesus because he was able to overcome death. The latter is represented by the serpent under the feet of the giant. This version is usually considered good in the blasphemous world. In addition, it can mean a mysterious connection with higher forces.

This idea is considered a great option for both sexes. It was copied from the tenets of Hinduism, in which elephants are considered the pillars of the world, companions of Indra, the god of the atmosphere.

The scientific interpretation of the elephant tattoo

Scientists have found that elephants are able to have compassion, differ altruism - regularly help others without benefit to themselves. In proof of this there are many photo and video materials.

It happens that the female elephant after the birth of her firstborn does not know how to take care of her baby elephant. In this case, the more experienced elephants in the nursing stage of their calf take on this responsibility.

Therefore, the elephant sketch is applied to the body as a sign of a friendly attitude to society. The carrier is characterized by a developed empathy and is always ready to help.

Scientists were able to notice the smiles of elephants and realize that they have a sense of joy. Therefore, to make a tattoo with an elephant means to show everyone your positive attitude and goodwill.

Elephants have a special way of greeting. The moment they meet, they intentionally intertwine their trunks to show friendliness through tactile contact.

However, an angry elephant is able to destroy everything in its path. Therefore, there are negative examples of elephant tattoos.

What are elephant tattoos?

They are characterized by naturalistic versions or variations on a particular theme. In the first case, the master seeks to create a real image of the animal. Such tattoos have a special value, because they convey the main essence of the symbolic load of this image.

But the artistic power of the elephant is more easily conveyed through cartoon subjects. For this purpose, often the elephant from the cartoon is used, in which he is looking for his mother, and other animals help in the search.

Ambiguous natures can use an elephant with butterfly wings. This tattoo artist's work is able to convey contradictory symbolism, as elephants are massive, butterflies are lightweight. Together they form an incredible picture suitable for the female body.

As a surreal example, you can pay attention to such a plot - the muzzle of an elephant is covered with scales to create a strong armor. Such a creature has something in common with dinosaurs and armadillos, but the main point lies in the symbolic meaning of this tattoo.

On the basis of responses on professional tattooist sites we can conclude that the elephant drawn on the back, torso or arms is identified with a thick skin, strong defense and readiness for a decisive attack.