Allegedly, it was he who introduced the word ‘tattoo’ to Europe, as he brought back with his tales of the tribal tattooing ceremonies. These tattoos were spread over the entire body of the bearer, with the exception of the face area. It is also known as ‘honu’ in their language, and it an important creature in the Polynesian culture which is associated with virility. If you happen to watch WWE, the Oklahoma City Thunder or even just glimpsed at The Rock, you may have noticed those enchanting black patterns adorning the bodies of some of them. And when it comes to Polynesian tattoos, the ‘tatau’ or Samoan tattoo is one of the most popular.The art of … In Polynesian based art, tiki are usually circular and almost always depicted with their eyes closed. Most of us want to be protectors for our families and friends, so this is a meaning that a lot of people love to use. Still, although taking these traditional placements into account when planning your Polynesian tattoo is a great idea, you should, of course, consider your personal preferences first and foremost. This … Tiki, associated primarily with Hawaii, are statues with human figures carved into them. It also functions as a lucky charm to protect its wearer against dangers and evil spirits. Although to the untrained eye they may look like random patterns focused solely on aesthetics, in fact, every element of a Polynesia themed tattoo carries specific symbolic value. Take a closer look at them. The Enata represents men and gods. French Polynesia is a group of islands scattered between Australia and South East Asia. The process itself was a painful one since tattoos were done using crude equipment such as bamboos and animal bones. This area of the Pacific Ocean is wide and vast. Polynesian Tattoo History. It is quite interesting to learn about the detailed meaning of the Polynesian tattoo symbols and designs. This resulted in long, painful healing and high risk of infection – standing as a further testament to the individual’s courage and ability to withstand physical pain. I'a (ia in Tahitian, ika in Maori) is the general word used throughout Polynesia to indicate fish. Shark Teeth. They are also believed to guide the dead to the afterlife – this last meaning is expressed in Polynesian body art through the image of a turtle with a symbol of a human on the turtle or next to it. Polynesian Tattoo Meanings. Its delicate designs are based on different meanings associated with the Polynesian culture. The turtle is also considered a divinity capable of moving freely between the earth and the ocean, considered as the beyond, and would therefore facilitate the passage of souls to their place of rest. Apart from that, it also means gracefulness, agility, speed, peacefulness, and stealth. With the detailing of artistic effects and shading, stingray tattoos can be designed in various sizes, but usually people prefer large sizes on the back. But it also represents the quiet force, an animal that hides its great power by humility and wisdom. Polynesian tattoos are an excellent choice for those wishing to get a tattoo. There is meaning in each line and pattern that you see in this design Cook Islands tattoos comprised of large designs which covered the entire body of the bearer. The symbol can represent a female, male, or divine figure and, unsurprisingly, hold meanings related to humanity and relationships. The Stingray, symbolizing protection, was a popular choice amongst warriors. This is a half sleeve tattoo. List of 6 most popular Polynesian tattoos: Choosing a few tattoo impressions from this rich “mix bag” is definitely a great task. As it is believed that the head is the contact point to Rangi. It was essential to have the tattoo completed once it was started, otherwise, it was a matter of disgrace for the tattoo bearer. Years ago, … In most Polynesian sub-cultures, turtles represent health, longevity, peace, and rest. This is probably the most famous type of turtle tattoo in the world. It is a tree planted by people who claim to be strong, who think before acting and always seek to pursue justice in their action. This design symbolizes shelter or cover, orientation, power, ferocity and adaptability. See more ideas about Ray tattoo, Manta ray tattoos, Tattoos. Stylized tribal stingrays don’t appear in Polynesian tattoo art very often. According to some sources, the word ‘tattoo’ actually originates from Polynesia. Polynesian Tattoos Today. French Polynesian Tribal Tattoo. Part of the belief was that tattoos were a necessary prerequisite to be able to communicate with the divine. Secondary meanings behind the stingray include gracefulness, agility, speed, and stealth. Polynesian tattoo symbols explained: i'a (fish) I'a: (Samoan, Marquesan, Hawaiian) m.fish.. Alongside Polynesian symbolism lending meaning to tribal markings, the placement of the tattoos holds its own significance. There are loads of chest tattoos in the Polynesian tattoos. It is believed that the first tribal people of Polynesia came to the Marquesas Islands and it is from here that they spread to various other Polynesian Islands. A stingray tattoo comes on a wide variety of styles and variations, also this symbol holds lots of meanings. They are also thought to be messengers between humans and gods. Next, we will describe what the main symbols of Polynesian tattoos and their meanings are, to allow you to choose a customized Polynesian tattoo. In Polynesian tattooing, the ocean is often used as a complement to another tattoo. Most of the Samoan women have tattoos inked on their hands. Since the ocean plays such an important role in the lives of Polynesian tribes, it’s unsurprising that as a symbol, it stands for a number of meanings. It is also part of Polynesia, which means that Hawaiian tattoos encompass both Hawaiian and Polynesian cultural symbolism and meanings. This is a tattoo for the chest. The art of tattooing was considered a sacred practice and the process of getting a tattoo involved a ceremony with a series of rituals. In Maori mythology, Tiki is actually the first man created by the gods. Enata tattoo is a very common tattoo, especially in the Marquesas culture. Another purpose of tattoos in this culture was that they were considered to be protective talismans, and sometimes a way to honor a deceased loved one. The stingray’s ability to hide in the sides, even from a perceptive shark, has earned its meaning of protection. Stylized tribal stingrays don’t appear in Polynesian tattoo art very often. Polynesian Tribal tattoos have a powerful and meaningful history that originated with the Oceanic people. The black symbol depicts strength. Sun. Polynesian tattoos are a distinctive form of tribal tattoo art, originating from the Polynesia subregion of Oceania. Spearheads can be used in combination with other symbols in order to express certain meanings. The most common design constituted a series of dots and lines extending from one ear to the other, covering the forehead of the bearer. Article by Stylecraze. The Meanings behind Polynesian Tattoos vary according to their placement. Unique #ideas and inspiration for your new tattoo! This one is one of my most favorite designs in this list. In Polynesian cultures, the sting ray is a sign of freedom. 24 Polynesian Tattoo Designs. Your body is your journal, and tattoos are here to tell its story. Tribal tattoos across Polynesian islands were therefore largely similar, though some differences in style and significance appeared. Polynesian tattoos have several variations and meanings. However, it’s important to know that each element used in a Polynesian themed tattoo design has its own meaning and significance – the patterns are made up of a series of meanings, rather than holding a singular meaning as a whole. Tonga tattoos are very similar to Samoan tattoos in the respect that they had a story to narrate, including personal facts about the bearer such as his age, social status and his journey through life. Shark teeth are one of the most common symbols in Polynesian tattoos. The Tiki is a Maori symbol that represents a half-human half-god being, and that happens to be the ancestor of humans. polynesian turtle shell tattoo polynesian tattoo symbol meanings family symbol tattoo designs tattoo ideas to represent family. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. There are different styles and variations depending on the islands, but they all have the same cultural origin. Polynesian Stingray Tattoo Design. Polynesia is made up of over 1,000 islands which, although sharing highly similar culture, language, and customs, are still distinct societies with minor differences and defining features. You have entered an incorrect email address! The most obvious meaning that you can use with the stingray tattoo is protection. Tattooing has a long history in the Oceania region, with some of the earliest examples of Polynesian tattoo art showing up more than 2,000 years ago. In the past, Ta Moko tattoos traditionally represented particular Maori tribes but for those of different heritage/ancestry – this is not the case. It is the representation of the deep-set cultural values and the people themselves. As mentioned above, the turtle is one of the most important animals of Polynesian culture, if not the most important. Meet the Rays – Impressive Polynesian Tattoos March 14, 2015Steven Leave a Comment I am always curious about the mysterious symbols appeared on the Polynesian tattoos. 6. Shells and sea shells symbolize in a wider sense protection, a shield and intimacy. But it is when combined with other tattoos it has other different meanings. © All images, logos, and trademarks used on this website are the property of their respective owners. In most Polynesian tribes, this symbol stands for protection, strength, and guidance – in some, it’s also connected to the idea of adaptability. Dec 6, 2018 - Explore Jetru Van Der Walt's board "Manta ray tattoos" on Pinterest. Sometimes, they proclaim one's beliefs and identity. The stylized pattern of the lizard symbol is highly similar to that of enata, or the symbol for a human. Tattoos were, therefore, a mark of adulthood (which was reached at the age of 12) and of particular achievements, as well as being a sign of courage and strength. It thus illustrates the stages of a person's life, such as births and marriages, as well as the social status of the person who carries it. Nevertheless, according to popularity few of the most common designs with meanings have been enlisted as follows: Tiki: Tiki design is similar to human figures representing semi gods. Thestyleup.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for website owners to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, and any other website that may be affiliated with Amazon Service LLC Associates Program. Spearheads symbolize combativeness and courage. The symbols of spearheads in Polynesian tattoo art present in almost every Polynesian tattoo design. The Polynesians were one of the pioneers in the case of these tattoos, and they are the ones who started to … The sun is often associated with other symbols to add a meaning of grandeur and prosperity. Just like other animal tattoos, the stingray can hold symbolic meaning to those who have it. However, the tattoo can have a range of other legitimate meanings, such as your family (physical lives), prosperity, travel, strength, your career path etc. Shark teeth are one among the foremost common figures in Polynesian tattoos. Tahiti is also known by the name of French Polynesia and in this island, only people of high social status had the right to get tattoos. Like the stingray tattoo, the dolphin tattoo represents freedom In Polynesian mythology the dolphin guided the Maori to the promised land while protecting them from sharks. Like the stingray tattoo, the dolphin tattoo represents freedom In Polynesian mythology the dolphin guided the Maori to the promised land while protecting them from sharks. It is a very important animal for the Polynesians because they mean protection you guidance. The turtle is one of the most famous symbols of Polynesian tattoo designs. But have you ever delved a little deeper into finding out the meaning behind this type of tattoo? Stingray tattoo always act as a symbol of speed, agility and protection. The tortoise shell symbolizes longevity, well-being, fertility and peace. Source. The Origins of Tattoo Art in Polynesia Historically there was no writing in Polynesian culture so the Polynesian’s used tattoo art that was full of distinctive signs to express their identity and personality. These Meanings of a Polynesian Tattoo Will Seriously Impress You. History of […] Maori, Hawaiian and other Polynesian style patterns. The enata is a symbolic representation of a human figure and appears in Polynesia inspired tattoos either on its own or as part of a pattern (multiple enata symbols in a linear formation). Aug 13, 2019 - Explore Rich Abrams's board "Polynesian tattoo designs" on Pinterest. The art of tattooing in Polynesia is an ancestral practice that has persisted in time and that the new generations continue to perpetrate. When they do, they primarily symbolize protection – since stingrays are able to hide from sharks and other predators in the sand, they are associated with safety and adaptation. ... ⦁ Stingray. If you want to read similar articles to The Meaning of Polynesian Tattoos, we recommend you visit our Beauty & Personal Care category. It can therefore mean death, or the afterlife. Secondary meanings behind the stingray include gracefulness, agility, speed, and stealth. Only individuals who have passed a set of rites were permitted to get a tattoo, which would often signify their position and ranking within the local society. They thus, also represent family and resourcefulness. In Hawaiian culture, tattoos were considered to be more personalized in nature, with respect to the fact that they conveyed a meaning related to the bearer. When placed upside down, enata symbolizes a fallen enemy. © 2020 thestyleup.com All rights reserved. Each Polynesian culture has its own take on tattoos, from the … An inverted Enata represents enemies. Polynesian tattoos can generally be split into two categories: Broadly speaking, the majority of Polynesian tattoos symbolize power, courage, protection, achievements, and divine blessing. Although in many cultures the cross is associated with the Christian religion, this is not at all the case in the Polynesian religion, the Marquise Cross is a symbol of harmony and peace among all the elements. The key ones include life, continuity, changes, and the afterlife. Across Polynesian islands, lizards – particularly geckos – are believed to be powerful creatures who can bring both good and bad luck, both life and death.