The Meaning Behind the Dolphin Tattoo
The dolphin tattoo is one of the most popular tattoo choices for both men and women. With so many different types of dolphin tattoos, it is no wonder everyone seems to be able to find one that suits his or her lifestyle and taste. But, why do they choose to get a dolphin tattoo and what exactly is a dolphin tattoo supposed to represent?
The Celtic Representation of the Dolphin
The dolphin has long had a symbolic meaning in Celtic art. Since the dolphin lives in the water, it is understandable that it has become associated with water. According to Celtic beliefs, water has the power to “wash away” past problems and to rejuvenate a person. In this sense, the person is able to make a new start. Therefore, the dolphin represents the death of a past lifestyle and the birth of a new life. The ancient Celts also viewed the dolphin as a symbol of both prosperity and guidance.
Dreaming of a Better Life
While the Celts viewed the dolphin as a symbol of rebirth, some view the dolphin as a symbol of the life they hope to have someday. It is not uncommon to find a dolphin tattoo with words such as “some beach….somewhere” included in the tattoo design. Since dolphins are known for their playfulness and the sense of freedom they create, these dolphin tattoo designs represent a longing for someday living that same free lifestyle.
Feeling Whimsical
Some people choose to get a dolphin tattoo simply to add a touch of whimsy to their body art. In addition to Celtic designs and philosophical representations of dolphins, some choose to get tattoos of cartoon dolphin image. Hardly anyone - man or woman, child or adult - can deny just how irresistibly cute dolphins are. And, for some people, cute is the whole goal when getting a tattoo.
Connecting Man to Animal
The dolphin itself has long been a popular animal. As we learn more about these majestic and intelligent creatures, we begin to feel as though they are somehow different from other animals and much like ourselves. Many feel as though dolphins connect mankind to the world of the sea. It is this almost mystical connection that has made it possible for dolphins to serve as therapeutic agents to handicap children and to those suffering from depression. This special connection we feel with dolphins is a large reason for our desire to pay tribute and show respect to these animals in the form of a tattoo.
Other Symbolic Representations
There are a number of additional symbolic representations of dolphins found in other cultures throughout the world and even in dream interpretations. For example, the image of two dolphins together is symbolic of harmony within the Chinese yin-yang philosophy. In dreams, dolphins are thought to represent the relationship the dreamer has with the world around him or her. Some people even associated the image of the dolphin with Jesus Christ.
No matter the precise meaning or purpose of the dolphin tattoo, the overall image of the dolphin is of dignity, playfulness, freedom, grace, strength, and joy. Wearing a dolphin tattoo, no matter where it is on your body, is just one way to try to bring these admirable traits to yourself and to project them onto others.