The Celtic Cross Tattoo- Is It The Cross For You?

Celtic cross tattoos like any other Celtic design such as the knot, have gained in popularity over the years. Those sporting these crosses wear them for a wide variety of reasons, from religion to aesthetic pleasure. They are a really nice cross to look at no matter the reason you brand yourself with one. Its origins are deep rooted in many religions dependant on the particular cross style that you choose.

The Celtic cross has gained popularity amongst those looking to show that they do have religious value but also that they want to be unique. The cross symbol is universal and the knots are a very beautiful variation on the design. It is also used by those of Celtic or Irish descent to show pride in their heritage and religion. It is not unusual to see many Irish individuals sporting a large Celtic Cross amongst the tattoos that adorn their bodies. Not only does it display their inner connection to their ancestors but it also very beautiful and easily modified to be unique.

Celtic Crosses didn’t originally connect with Christianity in any way since the original Celtics were of pagan descent, something that goes against the church of Christianity. Christianity only began using a Celtic cross after the Christian faith was brought to Ireland. This allowed the harmonious union of Christianity and the Celtic culture. They may be worn by those nowadays that do not belong to mainstream Christian culture, to exhibit their faith without following common path.

Celtic Crosses have a deep tradition and thought they have evolved in recent times at one point they were not like the typical Christian cross. Instead the crossing bars were equal in length and height. Each arm of the cross symbolizing an element, air, wind, water and earth and of course the circle in the middle representing life, with no true end or beginning, simply put eternal life. This circle has been the defining characteristic of Celtic crosses for centuries. The knots are the same knots used in all sorts of items through out Celtic and Pagan history, they simply represent the joining of spiritual and physical realms and the unending nature of human life.

No matter why you choose a Celtic cross as your tattoo of choice it is one you will not find disappointment in. It conveys a simple beauty, and appeal with its simple but heavily symbolic design.