The term “Rohi” is a polyseme. It is not a mere single word.
To Aztec see tattoos as just pretty designs made on one’s body is an understatement. Rather, they are like snippets from an ancient and grand culture. There are so many people who are interested in Aztec tattoos because of their symbolism and the strong people they represent. If you want to get this body art, it is essential that you learn the meaning behind Aztec tattoos first.
Now, guide us through case studies, where we will focus, besides Aztec tattoos history, what various images symbolize and possible options for design. First things first let’s start with the origin of these tattoos.
Historical Context of Aztec Tattoos
The Aztecs were a Mesoamerican culture that flourished in central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th century. Among many achievements, they mastered the science of astronomy, architecture, and art. An important aspect of Aztec culture was also the practice of tattooing. Tattoos were more than mere adornments; they were representations of faith, valor, and personal as well as group identity.
Tattoos were present on the bodies of the Aztec warriors, priests, and the common people. These tattoos included the depiction of gods, animals, and other symbols that were significant to the wearer. The choice of these designs was never made praiseworthily. Each tattoo had its objective, be it to please or pay homage to a deity, provide some form of protection or simply to pledge allegiance to the azteca life.
Understanding Aztec Tattoo Meaning
Aztec art forms such as tattoos are known to have deep meanings that are incorporated with the culture’s philosophy. The designs go way beyond being merely an image; it is a depiction of something much more profound. For instance, there are myriad Aztec tattoos that represent strength, bravery, or even their focal deities.
Picking an Aztec tattoo is, however, not just selecting a nice piece of art; it is about choosing among the assimilated meanings carried forward from ancient civilizations. Therefore, it is crucial to know these meanings in order to be able to select a design that fits once perspective.
Common Aztec Tattoo Designs and Their Meanings
Now that we have established a few facts on the history of aztec tattoos, and its meanings let us now proceed with some of the common designs and their respective meanings.
Sun God
The Sun God, also known as Tonatiuh, is considered one of the most important gods in Aztec society. He was in charge of the sun and represented life, power, and energy. A tattoo of the Sun God represents courage and leadership as well as the connection of the individual to the source of life. It is definitely a great design for people who would like to encompass these attributes.
Aztec Calendar Stone Tattoo
The Aztec Calendar Stone, or Sun Stone, is one of the most known and easily recognized artifacts of the Aztec civilization. It signifies the movement of time and the cycles of the universe. In most cases, a tattoo of the Aztec Calendar Stone signifies that the individual is deeply tied to the past, and history and believe in the natural order of the universe. It is also a very good tattoo for a person who wants to pay tribute to his or her ancestry or appreciate the legacy of time passages in their lives.
Quetzalcoatl Tattoo
Quetzalcoatl, the Feathered Serpent was a god of wind and a god of learning and wisdom. He was another one of the important gods worshiped by the Aztecs and was in charge of the equilibrium between the earth and the skies. On the other hand, a Quetzalcoatl tattoo connects the individual with wisdom and growth as well as the equilibrium of contradicting forces. It is an interesting design for people who believe in wisdom and balance in life.
Aztec Eagle Tattoo
The eagle symbol is intimately connected with military. In this case it is the sun god. For Aztec people, eagle was a symbol for power resistant and unbreakable spirit. This is the type of tattoo that resonates deeply with individuals that depict themselves as warriors, both physically or spiritually, hence the name Aztec Eagle tattoos. A design filled encamped in tenacity and the ability to achieve extraordinary heights.
Aztec Warrior Tattoo
The warriors of the Aztec people are regarded with a lot of reverence since they were vital cogs in the empire’s wheels. Because they were brave and disciplined people who followed all orders, this section of society will do everything possible to defend its people. The tattoo most associated with a wandering Aztec warrior’s ‘fighting’ spirit encompasses core ideals that are valuable throughout history; strength, and honor.It is best suited to those who consider themselves as combatants or warriors who wish to adopt the warrior ethos in their daily routines.
Tezcatlipoca Tattoo
Night was not only ruled by Tezcatlipoca but also magic and fate as well. He was a rich, meaningful and an extremely powerful figure in the very heart of aztec civilization. A tattoo of Tezcatlipoca is representative of such concepts that convey illusive strength as well as the ability of wa dt r to change its course.A tattoo that resonates with such feelings is particularly suited for people with strong connections to supernatural beings or this world and if they wish to be the master of their destiny.
Aztec Skull Tattoo
In other words, a Miquiztli head demonstrates the twin themes of death and life re-creation. Aztecs viewed death as merely a passage to another life. For them, a skull is viewed as a tattoo that demonstrates life and the eventual death of it, transformation, and possibility. For such individuals, change and evolution are constants in their life which makes this design perfect for them.
Xochipilli Tattoo
Xochipilli was the god of art, music, dance, and love. He was a joyful and creative figure in Aztec mythology. Xochipilli tattoos carry the patron’s passion, creativity and joy for life. This design is perfect for artists, musicians and other people who want to apply the love of life for the body art.
Huitzilopochtli Tattoo
The Aztecs were very fond of Huitzilopochtli as he was the Sun and the god of war. He was the most revered god in the Aztecs. Huitzilopochtli tattoo represents power, lead, and the spirit of a warrior. It is a design that embodies strength and determination to pursue one’s goals.
Aztec Snake Tattoo
Snakes often held strong significance in Ancient Aztec culture; they were considered to represent concepts around the earth, fertility, and the circle of life. Snake tattoos are associated with transformation, healing and the balance between life and death. It’s a significant symbolism for anyone who appreciates the importance of embracing change.
Tips for Choosing an Aztec Tattoo Design
Selecting the most suitable Aztec tattoo design is an intimate process. Here are several suggestions that will make it easy for you to make the right decision:
1.Look into the meanings: It is essential for you to know the design meaning before you settle for one. View it as a journey: find the perfect symbol for you, one that encapsulates your ethos or principles.
2.Select the Location: Ask yourself where your tattoo goes. Some designs may be more appropriate for specific sites on your body. For instance, the back might be an ideal surface for large-scale works such as the Aztec Calendar Stone, whereas smaller pieces such as the Aztec Eagle might suit the arm or chest better.
3.Seek Advice from an Experienced Tattoo Artist: Aztec tattoos are generally intricate and elaborate in nature. Always go for a tattoo artist that has an understanding of these designs. The right artist can accurately depict your intended symbol and do it with due consideration to its cultural significance.
4.Explore your creativity: Even though there is a tendency for people to stick with conventional designs, it is possible to customize the tattoo. Focusing on details which are important to you will make your tattoo a masterpiece.
FAQ
What is the significance of tattoos in the Aztec culture?
You can view Aztec tattoos as something akin to a coded language, etched on the bodies of the Ancient Indian inhabitants of Mexico. Such drawings depicted their deities, beasts, and ideas. Some of their tattoo designs showed strength, bravery, or life in all its aspects.
Were Aztec tattoos only for warriors or soldiers?
Definitely not! Aztec tattoos were for all and not just for the men who fought. Their kings, priests, and even commoners bore them. It indicated their identity and belief systems.
Is it possible to personalize the Aztec tattoo I get?
Of course! An Aztec tattoo can be personalized. It’s similar to creating a wonderful design that has to do with the past as well.
Do Aztec tattoos have a religious connotation?
Religiously inspired tattoo art and design ideas that relate to what was considered sacred to the Aztecs. But they could also signify ordering strength, bravery, and comprehending life cycle, and many other things.
Conclusion
The meaning, history, and culture of Aztec tattoos is extensive. When you decide to get an Aztec tattoo, you are not only getting a beautiful piece of art – you are bridging the gap with a great age and its might symbols. No matter whether you opt for the design that signifies strength, wisdom, or transformation- your Aztec tattoos will have such a significance that you would not hesitate wearing for years to come.
