Tattooing is achieved by permanently or temporarily injecting tattoo inks, dyes, or pigments into the dermal layer of the skin. It has been used throughout history and in various cultures. One design is a significant symbol from ancient Egypt. Let’s explore the Eye of Horus tattoo and associated designs.
The Eye of Horus
The Eye of Horus has deep symbolism and importance because it originates from ancient Egyptian culture. The symbol is a stylized representation of a falcon’s left eye, often accompanied by an eyebrow and a dark line extending behind the rear corner of the eye.
The legend behind this symbol stems from the Egyptian God Horus, the god of kingship, healing, protection, the sun, and the sky.
According to ancient Egyptian myth, Horus, the son of Isis and Osiris, lost his left eye during a battle with Seth. However, the god Thoth magically restored Horus’ eye. The God Horus was believed to provide protection against evil forces and ensure good health and well-being.
Eye of Horus Tattoo Meaning
The Eye of Horus tattoo represents protection against negative energies. It symbolizes healing, restoration, and positive transformations. It signifies spiritual enlightenment and wisdom, offering insight into oneself and the world.
Additionally, it represents personal strength and resilience, reminding individuals of their ability to overcome challenges.
1. Protection
One of the primary meanings associated with the Eye of Horus tattoo is protection. In Egyptian mythology, the Eye of Horus warded off evil and protected the wearer from harm. Some people sport the tattoo to save them from negative energies and the “evil eye.”
2. Healing and Restoration
Another significant meaning associated with the Eye of Horus tattoo is healing and restoration. Because the myth of Horus lost his eye in battle and later regained it, the tattoo symbolizes healing and restoration.
The Eye of Horus tattoo is popular for people seeking healing or going through a transformative journey. The myth says the tattoo brings about positive changes in one’s life and helps overcome obstacles.
3. Spiritual Enlightenment and Wisdom
The Eye of Horus tattoo is a symbol of spiritual enlightenment and wisdom. Because the symbol is associated with the sun and moon, representing life and the universe, it is closely related to spiritual enlightenment and wisdom.
The symbol brings spiritual vision and insight to the wearer, helping them better understand themselves and the world around them.
4. Personal Strength and Resilience
The concept of personal strength and resilience is a modern interpretation of the Eye of Horus tattoo. The tattoo can represent an individual’s ability to overcome challenges and emerge stronger. It also serves as a reminder of one’s inner strength and perseverance through difficult times.
Eye of Horus Tattoo Designs
There is more than one way to get an Eye of Horus tattoo. Here we examine four of the most popular styles of the ancient Eye of Horus design.
1. Small Eye of Horus Tattoo
Source: Em Reid Tattoo.
Some individuals incorporate the Eye of Horus tattoo into larger designs, while others prefer a smaller, minimalist version.
2. Eye of Ra and Horus Tattoo
Source: Cardinal Tattoo Parlor.
The Eye of Horus and the Eye of Ra share similar symbolism but differ. The Eye of Horus is the left eye, and the Eye of Ra is the right eye.
The Eye of Ra symbolizes the Egyptian god of the sun who watched over and observed everything. Ra is the Egyptian word for “sun.” It is a symbol of power and protection.
3. Ankh and Eye of Horus Tattoo
Source: Daniel Nabil Ink.
The Ankh and Eye of Horus tattoo is considered one of the most beautiful designs. It’s also one of the most popular of the symbolism.
The Ankh symbol is considered the original cross. It has a cross shape, except the top portion of the vertical bar is a teardrop-shaped loop. This design is considered gender-neutral. You’ll find it worn by both women and men.
Ankh and Eye of Horus Tattoo Meaning
The Ankh symbol is known as the “key of life.” The Ankh and Eye of Horus tattoo seamlessly blend the concepts of life and protection, creating a visually striking and meaningful design.
4. Eye of Horus Pyramid Tattoo
Source: Emily Barker Tattoos.
This Eye of Horus Pyramid tattoo is one of the most striking. This design is considered more masculine than the others. However, some women wear it as well as men.
For some individuals, getting an Eye of Horus Pyramid tattoo represents their spiritual awakening and the passing of wisdom from a divine source. Thus, the tattoo serves as a reminder of the journey toward enlightenment and the pursuit of spiritual growth. Individuals who get this tattoo may seek to invite luck and abundance into their lives.
Eye of Horus Tattoo Placements
Small images of the tattoo, such as the small Eye of Horus tattoo, look good on a wide selection of the body. You can have it done on the neck, shoulders, and back. Some individuals opt for finger or hand tattoos to create a “see no evil” message.
Remember that because this tattoo is small, if you want people to see it, it should be placed in an area that draws attention.
For Medium and Large Versions of the Tattoo:
- Arm: The arm is a popular place for the Eye of Horus tattoo and associated versions. You should place the tattoo on the upper arm (the bicep) rather than the lower arm.
- Neck: The neck is another popular place for the tattoo. Placing it on the neck also produces a “third eye” look. The side of the neck would be the best area of the neck to place this tattoo.
- Back: Some people place the tattoo on their back. It is best to place the tattoo on the upper back rather than the lower back to respect the image’s symbolism.
Unpopular Places:
- Chest: Getting the Eye of Horus tattoo on the chest is not a popular place. However, some choose this location. Usually, they get the Eye of Horus on one side of the chest and the Eye of Ra on the other.
- Leg: The leg is not a popular place for the Eye of Horus tattoo. It’s considered too low of an area for the symbolism.
Is It Bad to Get the Eye of Horus Tattoo?
The Eye of Horus is an ancient Egyptian symbol that represents protection, healing, and restoration, and many people choose this design for its aesthetic appeal and deep symbolic meaning.
Some argue because the symbol holds deep meaning in ancient Egypt, getting the tattoo is cultural appropriation. However, as long as the wearer respects the symbol’s cultural significance and does not use it disrespectfully or appropriative, getting an Eye of Horus tattoo is a personal choice.
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