Buddhist tattoos and their meaning. Ganesh Tattoo: The Meaning of an Indian Deity in Tattoo Art

GANESHA TATTOO, MEANING OF THE TATTOO

Elephant-headed god of wisdom and remover of obstacles, patron of trade and travelers.

Genealogy. In the epic and Puranas, the son of Shiva and Parvati, the brother of Skanda. Wives Buddhi ("mind") and Siddhi ("success"). According to the Varaha Purana, it arose from the radiance of Shiva.

Names. Ganapati "lord of Ghana" (previously the title of Ganapati belonged to Shiva or Rudra); Ghatodara "Thick-bellied"; Vighnesha "Lord of obstacles"; Ekadanta "One Tooth".

Iconography. He was depicted with a red or yellow human body, a large spherical belly, four arms and an elephant's head, from the mouth of which one tusk sticks out (he lost his right tusk in the battle with Parashurama).

Deity constituting the retinue of Shiva. It appears relatively late in the Hindu pantheon, in the early Middle Ages, but immediately occupies an honorary position in it and is one of the most popular and revered Indian gods. He is called to help, undertaking an important matter..

Images and temples are especially common in the south.

Versions of the birth of Ganesha.

* Varaha Purana. The gods turned to Shiva with a request to create a god who would prevent the accomplishment of evil deeds, and Ganesha arose from the radiance of the majesty of Shiva.
** Brihaddharma Purana (Book II). After the birth of Skanda, Shiva refused to "indulge in lovemaking" for the sake of offspring, but Parvati passionately desired a son. Enraged, Shiva rolled up the half of the goddess's robes and handed her in her hands: "Here is your son, Parvati." "How can this piece of cloth replace my son?" she objected. But as she spoke, she accidentally pressed the bundle to her chest. As soon as the bundle touched the chest of the goddess, he came to life and Parvati ordered the priests to perform the rites that were due at the birth of a son.

Versions of the "appearance" of the elephant's head.

* They forgot to invite the god Shani to the celebration in honor of the birth of Ganesha, and out of revenge, he incinerated the baby's head with a glance. Brahma advised Parvati to give him the head of the first creature she met. They turned out to be an elephant.

** According to one of the legends, Shiva himself cut off his son's head, angry that Ganesha did not let him into Parvati's chambers. Then, in order to console his wife, he put the head of an elephant that was nearby to the body.
*** Varaha Purana. Ganesha lost his head because of the curse of Parvati, dissatisfied with his birth.
**** Brihaddharma Purana (Book II). After the birth of Ganesha, all the gods were invited to a celebration where everyone could look at the baby. Only Shani did not pay honors to Parvati and her son, because. he was cursed by his wife for neglecting her, and from his gaze everything that the gaze of God fell on perished. Parvati disregarded Shani's warning and asked him to look at her son. As soon as Shani looked at Ganesha, the baby's head separated from the body and fell to the ground. Even Shiva failed to resurrect the baby. Then a voice came from heaven, commanding to “put” on the shoulders of Ganesha the head of the one who “sleeps facing the north.” Shiva's servant Nandin was sent in search of the head, who after long wanderings came to the capital of the heavenly kingdom of Amaravati. At the gates of the city he saw Airavata, the elephant of Indra, lying with his head to the north. Having won the battle with Indra, Nandin cut off the elephant's head and returned to Shiva. The young god came to life and, at the behest of Shiva, became the head of the gangs (hosts of Shiva's servants), having received from Brahma the name Ganesha, "Lord of the hosts." Indra came to Shiva with repentance and as a token of forgiveness, Shiva ordered the body of the headless elephant to be thrown into the ocean so that it would acquire a new head, after which the resurrected Airavata returned to Indra.

Ganesha tattoo is a special symbol endowed with sacred meaning. The culture of India is very multifaceted and mysterious, and this is what attracts people from different countries. The wearable pattern will bring good luck and success only to those who treat the Indian religion with respect and reverence. Frivolity in this case can only hurt. Before choosing a tattoo with a revered deity, carefully study its meaning and symbolism.

Who is Ganesha

Ganesha is an Indian deity who is depicted with the head of an elephant and a human body. According to legend, he was the offspring of the god Shiva and the goddess Parvati, and his name is translated as "lords of the Ghans", that is, servants. Due to the intervention of evil forces, Ganesha lost his head. Then Brahma ordered his mother to take the head of any creature that first met on her way and would sleep facing north. It turned out to be a small elephant.

The most famous painting is Ganesha Medium by Vrindavan Das, where the deity is depicted with a broken tusk. The Indian epic tells that Ganesha lost him in a battle with a giant. According to another version, he tore off his tusk due to the fact that his pen broke when he wrote the Mahabharata. The ax in the picture means the removal of obstacles, sweets - a sweet life, rosaries - knowledge and wisdom. The number of hands, depending on the image, can vary from 2 to 32.

In India, Ganesha is treated with special reverence and reverence. It symbolizes prosperity, prosperity, abundance and is considered the patron of creative people - writers, poets, artists. Indians believe that the deity is able to get rid of worries and doubts, to help in undertakings, but only on condition that the person is sincere and kind.

Another meaning is wealth and material wealth. The larger the image of Ganesha in the house, the more money.

Who will suit

Ganesh tattoo is a serious symbol that suits both men and women equally. On the human body, it is a powerful amulet that protects even in the most difficult moments of life, gives strength and inspiration. The deity patronizes businessmen and entrepreneurs, protects against making wrong decisions. Ganesha helps in any endeavor, attracts new people, influential connections and is a kind of lifesaver. If the owner of such a tattoo is a greedy and conceited person, then the drawing will only harm him.

An elephant is a strong and hardy animal, so a tattoo with an Indian deity gives its owner good health and heals from ailments. It is believed that a person who has made such a body pattern takes on all the positive qualities of the animal: stability, confidence, stability, strength and wisdom. A tattoo may also indicate a passion for Indian culture or involvement in Hinduism.

Execution technique

The image of Ganesha includes many small details and elements that would be impossible to display in a small tattoo. Only large-scale sketches can convey all the symbolism and sacred meaning of the image. Please note that the ankle and lower back are not suitable for the site of application of the composition, as this is disrespectful to the deity. The same applies to intimate places.

Ganesha tattoo on the arm is an ideal option for both men and women. A large drawing will look very impressive and will certainly bring good luck and prosperity. In the classical interpretation, the image must be in color, but in the modern art of body painting, a monochrome sketch is allowed.

The choice of style for performing a tattoo is unlimited, it all depends on your desire and the qualifications of the master. New school, realism, blackwork - these techniques are suitable for depicting Ganesha. In the work, it is important that ornaments and details are clearly drawn. A tattoo on the back, chest or forearm will undoubtedly attract the attention of others and become a real work of art.


Of course, they know about a good deity who patronizes merchants and merchants, writers and artists, explorers and travelers. It has wise eyes, short tusks, blue skin, and its name is Ganesha. Tattoos with this deity are very popular among lovers of the history and culture of the East, as well as among the followers of Hinduism.

Image of Ganesha

Like most Indians, he has a figure of a fairly powerful build. He often sits in the lotus position with his feet together. By the way, his legs and arms are anthropomorphic, which only emphasizes such an unusual feature as an elephant's head.

The hands of the deity are often decorated with mehendi painting, which is so popular in India, and throughout the world. Traditional Indian clothing is another distinctive feature that Ganesha often possesses. A tattoo with this character is distinguished by a special flavor.

Meaning

This tattoo is religious. Even among people far from Hinduism, the image of a blue elephant is associated with exoticism, distant countries, ancient cultures.

"Ganesha" is a tattoo, the meaning of which is strongly associated with good energies. Wisdom, self-control, development of talents and inner potential - this is what the good deity of the image bearer endows. Ganesha also helps to overcome difficulties and guides on the right path.

Places of application

"Ganesha" - a tattoo that is usually applied to the shoulders, forearms, shoulder blades, hips. The choice of location depends on the size of the drawing, as well as on its complexity and detail: the more small details, the more space the image will require. The sizes of this tattoo vary from the smallest, which are applied to the hand, to the huge, in the entire back.

Colors

Indian-style tattoos are characterized by the use of bright colors. "Ganesha" - a tattoo that is often done in color, painting the deity in blue, and his attire in orange, yellow, red tones.

Black and white sketches look no less impressive, allowing you to reveal the talent of the master in working with shadows and highlights. A well-made tattoo will look voluminous and lively.

Styles

Usually, experts single out one of the directions as a separate trend. Do not forget about the religious background.

Nowadays, the image of Ganesha is widely used by fans. new school, watercolor tattoos, styles such as chicano, trash polka, realism.

Indian culture is one of the most popular body painting motifs. It captivates with original visual design of patterns and depth of images. India is a charming and amazing country, original and very interesting. Fans of this culture, of course, are well aware of the god Ganesh, who is considered the patron of merchants, merchants, representatives of creative professions and crafts, for example, artists and writers, travelers, photographers and researchers. A tattoo with this deity is deservedly in the first positions in popularity, and this statement applies not only to lovers of Indian culture, but also to ordinary people who are in search of some unusual solution, are fond of the East.

Syndicate Tattoo regularly has to deal with such an ornament, so we will analyze it in more detail.

Legend of Ganesh

The value that has this tattoo, can be easily deduced from the history of the birth of this god. Ganesh is the child of Parvati and Shiva, but the god Shavi, known for his anger and envy, incinerated the head of the child with his gaze. Brahma turned to the saddened parents. He gave them advice to replace the baby's head with the head of the creature that they first come across on the road, which will sleep with its face turned towards the east. Such a creature was destined to become a little elephant, and this is precisely what explains such an unusual appearance Ganesha. His very name can be translated as “Lord of the Ghans”, and “Ghans” in India are called the servants of Shiva.


The physique of the god of wisdom is quite large, but this has its own explanation. For example, inside his full belly there is an energy clot, thanks to which he constantly fulfills the desires of those in need. The elephant's head denotes devotion, but devotion is not blind, but reasonable, based not only on feelings, but also on the power of the mind. Big ears show that God is always ready to hear all those who turn to him for help. The eyes of the deity with the brightness of their light resemble gems. Each of the four hands also has its own unique meaning:

  • Willingness to adhere to a righteous lifestyle;
  • striving for prosperity;
  • enjoyment of life;
  • Freedom from pain, physical and spiritual.

In the mythology of India, you can find many legends that describe in detail the good deeds performed by Ganesha. For example, his broken tusk is a sign of great devotion to the Almighty. The myth says that Vyasha (the earthly incarnation of Krishna) turned to all earthly beings that he wants to write down all his knowledge. No one, however, responded, the work seemed too hard. Only the little elephant Ganesha dared to help Vyasha, setting the condition that the work should be carried out without rest, otherwise it would take many centuries to complete it. When Ganesha's writing stick broke off, he, without hesitation, broke off one of his own tusks to continue writing.

On some tattoos, the god is depicted as sitting on a rat. The rat also has its own meaning, such a sketch represents a complete victory over negative character traits, shows the ability of the owner of the character to overcome his own greed, selfishness, and pride. The image can also be supplemented with a rosary symbolizing wisdom, a lotus (infinite power) and sweets (a cheerful life).


Ganesh is the deity that always remains in the body of the baby. This is what explains his hobbies for games, love for sweets and an exciting pastime. His character is not yet spoiled by the numerous temptations characteristic of adults and sins. Such a body, however, does not exclude the infinite wisdom of Ganesha, which not every adult can boast of.

Common Sketches

As a rule, a deity tattoo is performed in one of the following images:

  • Portrait, when the face is depicted without a torso;
  • Full-length portrait depicting the entire figure;
  • Ganesha in dance;
  • Ganesha riding a rat;
  • Dancing Ganesha with more than four arms. 4 is a classic sketch, the meaning of which we analyzed above, but the number of hands can go up to 32.

Meanings for boys and girls

This ornament does not have any gender restrictions, it can be used by both men and the fair sex. For example, if we talk about girls, then the pattern can emphasize the cheerfulness of their character, love of entertainment, readiness to learn something new and interesting. Sometimes the choice of Ganesh is due solely to the fact that its owner is a fan of oriental culture. It is also believed that the deity favors ladies engaged in creative work, actresses, poetesses, artists, helping them to achieve success in their profession, providing worthy material remuneration for their work, many admirers.


The attraction of Ganesh is also for men. It helps in the chosen field of activity, contributes to the achievement of worldly wisdom, expands the horizons of knowledge and skills. Ganesha on the body indicates that its owner does not concentrate solely on professional activities, does not forget about self-development, strives for fruitful communication, establishing new connections and relationships.

The deity is able to bring success in any professional activity, since nothing material is alien to him. Ganesha helps in career growth, increases the chances of a salary increase. The ornament on the body also shows that its owner is a wise person who not only strives to earn as much money as possible, but also knows how to spend it wisely and correctly, seeks to learn something new in life, help others, improve his own personality.

Features of graphic performance

From the photo you can understand that a tattoo in this style is characterized by all the features inherent in traditional Indian painting. We recommend making it in color, since it is such a solution that is considered a classic, the final pattern looks attractive and unusual. Color, at the same time, suits both boys and girls. An additional point is the abundance of details. In the design process, it is better not to limit yourself to anything, the more details are used in the process of forming the final pattern, the more impressive its final appearance will be. Indian painting is generally characterized by an abundance of various decorations, since it is it that symbolizes wealth, makes the final picture unusual and original, so you should not refuse such a style.

The masters of the Syndicate Tattoo studio will cope with it without any problems, regardless of the complexity, and professional equipment will make it possible to accurately work out the smallest elements of the original image, eliminating their further deformations and defects that may appear after healing. Additionally, the main pattern can be diversified with classic Indian ornaments, inscriptions and mandalas.

Location options

Features of graphic design impose certain requirements on the choice of location for the location of the pattern. A small area of ​​the body is not suitable for this, since in a limited space the master simply will not be able to fully pay attention to details, small elements will merge with each other and will look unattractive and incomprehensible. A good option is a tattoo on the back, in this case there is enough space to implement a large-scale image, which has worked out shadows, there is volume. Common options are the location of the picture on the shoulder, forearm, thigh or shoulder blade. It is not recommended to make a tattoo on the genitals or in the lower abdomen, it is not only about the lack of free space, but also that such a choice of placement looks like disrespect for the deity.


Regardless of the complexity of the chosen sketch and the place of application, the masters of the salon will cope with the task. We will provide not only the perfect graphic execution of the sketch, but also the absolute safety of the process, subject to the minimum care requirements, it will take several days, it will not cause any inconvenience, since we take the issues of sterility and antiseptic treatment with all responsibility!


Ganesha, bringing success, wealth, prosperity and success, is revered by many. People wear amulets, talismans in the form of figurines of God with the head of an elephant, wanting to change their lives, and the most resolute “stuff” tattoos with this beautiful deity on their bodies.

We will tell you what is remarkable about tattoos in the form of Ganesha, to whom they will definitely suit, and we will determine how best to depict them.

Ganesha in the history of the ancient people of India - how was God represented, what did he mean?

Ganesha is the God of wealth, wisdom, abundance, prosperity. He is one of the most revered Gods of India. He is considered the son of Shiva, the patron of businessmen, who removes problems and obstacles.

He gives material gifts to those who really need them or deserve them for their faith, righteous life.

And Hindus also think that it helps to gain knowledge, wisdom.

In ancient times, the people of India represented him as a half-animal, half-human, with a large rounded belly and the head of an elephant. The fat man attracted attention with his appearance.

He was depicted with a tusk, a trunk, and many arms, the number of which varied from 4 to 30.

And this is not accidental, because each part of the deity's body carried a certain hidden meaning:

  • The head meant devotion, holiness, reasonableness.
  • The tusk showed power, strength, wisdom.
  • The trunk said that God has high intellectual abilities.
  • The stomach spoke of generosity, incredible, immeasurable energy that can save the entire Universe.
  • The ears personified sensitive hearing and attentiveness to all people who turned to him.

There are several legends about the appearance of the deity:

  1. According to ancient legends, the Almighty God Vishnu gave a son to the wife of Shiva (the same God in Hinduism), whose name was Parvati. She really wanted to give birth to a baby, and such a miracle happened. But the joy of the parents did not last long. At the celebration in honor of the birth of a child, a misfortune occurred. God Shani, turning everything around into ashes at a glance, looking at the boy, incinerated his head. Instead, God Shiva gave life to the baby, replacing the human head with the head of an elephant.
  2. According to another legend, God Shiva was angry and tore off his son's head with his own hands because the boy accidentally broke the figurine that his mother blinded. Shiva got angry, but could not look at how his wife was grieving. He had to attach the animal's head to the boy's body. They turned out to be an elephant.

Despite the unique and unusual appearance, God with the head of an elephant fell in love in antiquity. It was believed that he had a good heart, fair and capable of fulfilling all desires.

The main meanings of the Ganesh symbol in the art of tattooing


Wanting to change their lives for the better, many clients, coming to tattoo parlors (St. Petersburg), ask to create an unusual tattoo in the form of Ganesha.

A tattoo in the form of a Ganesh symbol means:

  • Success.
  • Problem-free.
  • Help.
  • Protection.
  • Career growth.
  • Professionalism.
  • Financial well-being.
  • Wealth.
  • Wisdom, intelligence.
  • Force.
  • Power.
  • Positive.

The fact that a tattoo in the form of God Ganesha bears positive energy.

Of course, you can bring your own special meaning to such a tattoo. To do this, it is enough to depict a deity with some other symbol.

It is important that the tattoo sketch is unique. It is a unique picture that will attract into your life positive and financial well-being. You will show respect to this God if you treat the sketch with care and accuracy.

Who is suitable for the image of Ganesha as a tattoo?

Artistic tattoo "Ganesha"

A tattoo in the form of a Hindu god with an elephant head is suitable for both sexes - both girls and guys can do it. It can contribute to the development of professional qualities, help in career growth.

A tattoo is right for you if you:

  • A strong-willed person who cannot leave a business without finishing it.
  • Strive for financial independence.
  • Confident in yourself and your abilities.
  • Look for inner strength, power to accomplish some important thing.
  • You love to travel. Ganesha helps travelers!
  • Leader by nature.
  • You can be wise, really weigh decisions before making them.
  • You have high intelligence.
  • Patient person.
  • Dreaming of success, getting rid of problems.
  • Generous, cheerful and positive person.
  • Student. Yes, Ganesha can help with exams or admission.

Such a tattoo definitely not suitable for greedy, conceited and envious people. Of course, a tattoo can bring various benefits to life, but - if a person acts towards others positively, respectfully, having a bright mind and pure thoughts.

Features of performing a Ganesha tattoo - types of tattoos of God with an elephant head

Before contacting the tattoo parlors in St. Petersburg, you must understand how best to depict Ganesha.

If you are not a creative person, then tattoo artists will help you, you only need to state in detail all your preferences and desires.

Artistic Ganesha tattoo on the back

So, here are some implementation features to consider:

1. God Ganesh Tattoo Size

Since the tattoo in the form of a god with an elephant head has a lot of small details, it is better to depict it in a medium or large size.

It is undesirable to use a small scale for such a tattoo (Petersburg). The master will not draw Ganesha in all its glory - but the difference between this tattoo lies precisely in the detail.

2. Location of the Ganesh tattoo

The most common places where God is tattooed are:

  • . There is enough space here to convey the drawing in the beauty in which the sketch was created. Tattoos (Petersburg) here are distinguished by high clarity, brightness, expressiveness, detailed elaboration. They have a tattoo in the middle of the back, or at the top, near the neck.
  • Side. Such tattoos are “stuffed” by girls.
  • Hand. Most often involved.
  • They make tattoos on the thigh or lower leg.

The location directly depends on the size of the tattoo (Petersburg).

Large images look better on the back, medium ones look better on the side, arm, thigh.

Apply small tattoos in the form of Ganesha on the lower leg.

3. Hindu God Tattoo Styles

Artistic tattoo "Ganesha" on the arm. Working time: 2.5 hours.

Tattoos can be done in a variety of styles.

There is no clear limit in the choice, but the most common styles are:

  • Dotwork.
  • Linework.
  • Graphic arts.
  • Polynesian style.

If you are even a little versed in tattoo styles, you have noticed that the tattoos in the above styles will be done all in black. But they impress with originality, clarity, brutality.

Of course, you can also choose color styles that can use bright shades of paint.

In general, a tattoo can be done in any color option.

Feel free to use bright colors, such as yellow, orange, red. They are associated with wealth and prosperity.

4. Types of tattoos with Ganesha

If you figured out the design part, then you should think about how to complement the tattoo.

Let's tell you what symbols can be depicted together with God and what meaning the tattoo will then have (Petersburg):

  • Trident. Represents power.
  • Lotus. Associated with creativity, talent, development.
  • Axe. Helps to remove obstacles.
  • Various gifts- fret, the so-called sweet ball of pea flour, will personify abundance.
  • Staff. Such a tattoo will show that its owner follows only forward.
  • Beads. The symbol helps to learn, gain new knowledge, develop the spiritual side of your life.
  • Loop, lasso. A tattoo will help eliminate problems.
  • Candy. The sweetness drawn in the trunk of an elephant means liberation, freedom.
  • . The tattoo will mean energy.
  • Nimbus. Once again emphasize the holiness of Ganesha.

Ganesha can be depicted in various poses: sitting, standing or dancing.

5. Ganesha Tattoo Lead Time

You can “stuff” a tattoo in 1-2 hours. It all depends on the detail, size, location - and, of course, the client's pain threshold.

Masters of the studio "Marukha" are attentive and individual to each client. With them, you can discuss the nuances of choosing and creating a sketch, as well as resolve all design issues.