The tattooing world has very few favorites. Phoenix bird is one of them. Do you know where this interesting picture comes from? What is the symbolic significance of this awesome picture? We will look at the reasons this bird design has become one of enduring symbols of time.
Mythology says that the Phoenix is a creature that rises from its own ashes after burning down. The name itself originated from the Greek word for "red", the universal color of fire. Being the bird of fire, Phoenix can be aptly used to symbolize a person's inner fire and zest for life. The rage for the Phoenix bird tattoos has started a few years back. The Phoenix bird epitomizes the rebirth and resurrection from the ashes. You can use this symbol if you have had a tough patch in life and successfully overcame it.
It is fairly easy to draw the Phoenix bird tattoos which are normally painted in bright and lucid colours that represent life. The uniqueness of a phoenix bird design lies in its different interpretation by different people. You can very easily personalize a phoenix bird tattoo to highlight emotions close to your heart. You just need to tell a good tattoo artist what you want to depict with your tattoo and he or she will easily give you the best.
Jewish legend says that the phoenix was the bird that refrained from eating the forbidden fruit of paradise, set itself on fire but rose from the ashes three days later. The Phoenix bird was also considered to be the representation of the rising and setting of the sun. However later on it was widely accepted as the symbol of resurrection of life. Originally ones were just beauty symbols. Of late, they have become a medium to express ones life experiences and emotions. Therefore, the Phoenix bird designs have attained big popularity. Keeping in line with this, the tattoo artists have creatively designed many forms of the Phoenix bird tattoo.
The emergence of the Phoenix Bird tattoo as a popular one is not documented well but people believe that it has its origins in the Far East. Men like to have a phoenix bird picture on their arms, while the ladies normally prefer to have it on their lower back or on their belly. There are people who consider Phoenix to be the symbol of the devil and that pagans expressed their love for Satan through the phoenix. In the vastly popular Harry Potter series, the phoenix has been depicted as the bird that has healing powers. This is more in line with the symbolic meaning of Phoenix, the resurrection. In the chronicles of Narnia too, a phoenix is pictured saving one of the characters from imminent danger.
Historically the phoenix was used not just as a tattoo. It was also printed on the coins by the ancient Romans, who believed that it would ensure the longevity of the Roman Empire. No matter what the reason, the phoenix tattoo designs are beautiful and at the same time have definite, deeply held symbolic significance. Therefore, these designs are, like diamonds, forever.
Phoenix Tattoo Design
As a tattoo design, the phoenix is probably the most visually spectacular form of body art.
The legend of the phoenix bird is known throughout the world, and has its origins in much of Europe, Middle East and Far East.
The basic symbolism of the phoenix is resurrection and rebirth by fire.
Although the legend is the same worldwide, there are subtle differences.
Greek Legend
According to ancient Greek legends, the phoenix bird lived in Arabia next to a watering well. At dawn, it would bath and the Greek sun god Apollo would stop his chariot specifically to listen to its song.
Lebanese Legend
The Lebanese claim the phoenix as central to their culture, whether it is ancient or modern. As descendants of the Phoenicians, they see themselves as "Sons of the Phoenix". This legend holds particular significance to Beirut, which was destroyed and rebuilt 7 times in its history.
Persian Legend
In Persian legends, the phoenix is known as Huma or the 'bird of paradise'. This bird consumed itself in a ball of fire only to rise again from the ashes. It was considered a bird of compassion, and would bring great fortune by a simple touch.
Egyptian Legend
In ancient Egypt, the legend was known as bennu. This bird created itself from fire emanating from a holy tree. It was believed that this bird carried the soul of Ra the sun god.
Jewish Legend
Jewish legends state the phoenix was the only bird or animal for that matter not to follow man in his banishment from Paradise (Garden of Eden)
Chinese and Japanese legends
In Chinese legends, the phoenix was known as "Fenghuang". This bird is the second most respected legendary creature. Only the dragon is more respected. The phoenix is used to represent the empress and was as the leader of birds.
The Japanese word for phoenix is "Fushichō". It is known as "Immortal Bird".
The phoenix holds a rich diversity of meanings and beliefs, not to mention a beautiful design for body art.