Dragon Tattoo Symbolism

Dragon Tattoo Meanings

A Dragon tattoo is one of the most powerful tattoos, representing a huge range of qualities, emotions, and traits.

The most common symbolism of a Dragon is strength, courage, and fortitude.
Dragons are also messengers of balance, and magic - encouraging us to tap into our psychic nature and see the world through the eyes of mystery and wonder.

More specifically, Dragons are the embodiment of primordial power - the ultimate ruler of all the elements. This is because the Dragon is the master of all the elements: Fire, Water, Earth, and Wind.

As a tattoo, the Dragon represents a powerful guardian and guide.

In Chinese culture, the season of the Dragon is mid-spring, its direction is east-southeast, and its fixed element is wood.

Ancient Chinese Dragons are ultimate symbols of cosmic Chi (energy). It is said to be the most potent symbol of good fortune in the Chinese pantheon of symbols. As one of the four creatures of the world's directions, the Dragon stands for new beginnings. The Dragon also has the power to release water to parched lands, and which in turn stands for abundance and relief. Continued success, high achievement, and prosperity are also listed among the Dragon's arsenal of good qualities, which rank it one of the most popular of Asian signs.

The Legend of The Nine DragonsThe mainland overlooking Hong Kong is called Kowloon, which means Nine Dragons. Legend states the mainland was named this by a Chinese Emperor who fled there after the Sung Dynasty. Originally, he named it after the eight hills predominantly located on the land. His servant observed that the Emperor should also be counted among the regal figures. Hence, the "Gau-lung" or Nine Dragons was born.

Characteristics of the Nine Dragons:

1. P'u-lao:  Alerts one to danger, and serves as a protector. Often engraved on bells, sacred singing bowls, and gongs.
2. Ch'iu-niu:  Creator of Yang energy through the use of ancient dragon music.
3. Pi-his:  Provider of knowledge, luck and upholds the virtue of finer education.
4. Pa-hsia:  Provider of strength and support when called upon during times of need.
5. Chao-feng:  Guardian of the holy places, sacred lands, and holy temples.
6. Chih wen:  Symbolizes the power of water over fire.
7. Suan-ni:  Mighty protector and emblem against theft, loss or betrayal of any kind.
8. Yai-tzu:  Protector and guardian against any physical harm.
9. Pi-kau:  Defends again litigation, verbal disputes, or false accusations.

Classic Chinese Dragon

The Dragon has always served me well as a symbol of self-confidence and courage. Dragons can make the heart beat stronger instill fire within, and may enable you to stand taller both physically and spiritually speaking.

Dragon and Tiger

These two great forces of the universe reflect the primordial Yin and Yang of existence. To the Chinese, the tiger is the emblem of dignity, and courage. This, combined with the abundance, luck, and Yang energy of Chinese dragons - it's a luck combination that can't be beat.

Dragon Riding Clouds

Clouds are symbols of celestial mobility because many gods and immortals used the cloud as a vehicle on which they traveled. The cloud is also considered a portent of good luck, carrying needed rains that enable the growth of abundant crops. When clouds are combined with auspicious Chinese dragons, it makes a perfect emblem to manifest positive effects in your life.

Dragon Encircling Pearl

The pearl is often depicted with Chinese dragons. The pearl is sometimes thought to represent the moon. In fact, one legend has it that some dragons have become infatuated with the moon, and have gone insane trying to steal it from the sky. Other tales depict the pearl as an egg placed beneath the dragon's neck or chin. The dragon is said to carry the egg away until it is ready to hatch. By far the most agreed upon tale is that the pearl represents the dragon's wisdom - hence the term: "pearls of wisdom."

Dragon with Phoenix Together, the dragon and phoenix symbolize Yin and Yang together: perfect balance. Standing alone, each symbol is hugely powerful. Together they represent a power- packed union of success, prosperity, friendship, love, and enlightenment. The union of these two highly symbolic creatures at wedding festivities suggests a match that is blessed with money and incredible luck. Furthermore, it denotes the beginning of a dynastic family with the dragon symbolizing the patriarch and they phoenix signifying the matriarch.