Thursday, November 3, 2011
What is with the growing trend to wear tattoos of dragonflies? We all know that they are harmless insects with beautifully, transparent wings. Their bodies reflect a multitude of colors. It seems that they are incorporated with many different tattoo themes. Some times they are seen inked within Asian or oriental tattoo designs. At other times they may be blended with Native American themed tattoos. We also see them mixed in with fantasy art and mystical designs. Are there some underlying meanings to dragonflies?
Asian cultures often hold the dragonfly in high regard. Japan, China, and Vietnam all assign special meaning to the dragonfly. In Japan, they often represent happiness or joy. Another Japanese view of the dragonfly is their depiction of strength and courage. China and Japan have medical uses for the dragonfly and Vietnamese will occasionally use them to help forecast the weather.
As far the United States are concerned, the dragonfly has been a symbol of renewal or rebirth after a great loss or hardship in a number of Native American cultures. Some Native Americans believe the dragonfly to be the souls of the people who have passed on. The dragonfly design has been used in Zuni, Hopi and Pueblo pottery, artwork and jewelry. To the Navajo the dragonfly represents pure water. Many times the dragonfly is a symbol of both air and water because they start their life in water then change to a flying insect at maturity.
This transformation from water to air has defined the mystical or metaphysical symbolism of the dragonfly. These qualities are what make the dragonfly a symbol of change. They denote rising up and achieving goals and passing our self imposed limits. They are often synonymous with maturity and growing up. Mythical stories refer to them as previously being dragons.
Still others have their own ideas about what a dragonfly means. Because of their speed and maneuverability many believe that they represent agility, quickness, and invincibility. No matter what idea you relate to, use the dragonfly tattoo design as a proud representation of it. These designs work well on men and women and since their bodies reflect all colors they can be inked in virtually any color you choose.
