The Shiva Tattoos - India, Symbolism, and Significance
Taking the phrase – Hidden in plain sight to whole new levels, the incarnate art of tattooing allows you to wear your stories on your skin wrapped in mysteries and adorned by art. A tattoo is a way to breathe life into what holds meaning for you. It could be something that empowers you or is sacred to you. One such beautiful concept is the art of Shiva tattoos. The best Shiva Tattoos are always elaborate and deep-meaning art in themselves.
Called the god of gods or Mahadev, Shiva is known as the epitome of power and tenderness. A significant deity in Hinduism, Shiva, and the concept of Shivam is rich with symbolism, each with its own deep meaning and significance.The legend of Lord Shiva portrays him in various forms and avatars. He is known as Mahakaal – the all-powerful destroyer and master of time, Adiyogi – the ancient yogi or the meditator, Bolenath – the kind and innocent one, Nataraja – The king of dance, Omkareshwar – The embodiment of the holy sound ‘OM’, and Ardhanareeshwar – The unified form of shiva and shakti as the symbol of duality, among his many other forms.
Each of his forms has its own legend and symbolism attached to it. Rightly known as the god of all, each believer of Shiva has a connection to one of his forms, and this explains why most of the best Shiva tattoos are never the exact same design.
While a common reason behind getting a lord shiva band tattoo remains religious beliefs, there are so many other reasons why people choose to get Shiva, or one of his many symbolisms inked on them.
In lord shiva portrait tattoo, some may find the representation of the eternal cycle of life and death, the remainder of the transient nature of existence. While for some he is the representation of transformation and rebirth symbolising growth and restarting life from scratch.
Some see him as a protector and the Shiva tattoo is for them a talisman, a guardian, and a sense of hope, a source of strength to rely on. And for some others, it may purely be a way to express their belief in the mighty god, a symbol of spirituality and religion.
While the reason and significance vary from person to person, what remains common is the love for Shiva tattoos. And at times, you might not know how to find the right way to express that. While you know you need a representation of Shiva with you, the options and variety make the process of picking the right one overwhelming. The trick is to go with what appeals to your heart. Here are some forms and symbolism of lord shiva portrait tattoo for you to pick your best Shiva tattoo.
Different Types of Shiva Tattoo
Mahadev
The ultimate form of Shiva represents him as the great god or Maha-Dev. This is Shiva in the true sense without any of his avatars just as Hinduism describes him. People who want to express their devotion to Shiva without much conceptualising, tend to choose this form of mahadev tattoo ideas.
Nataraja
The Lord of the Dance in his eternal state of cosmic dance, this form of Shiva symbolizes the never-ending cycle of time and portrays him as the emblematic of creation, preservation, destruction, illusion, and emancipation.
Ardhanarishvara
The half male half female forms of Shiva, representing his union with Shakti. This form symbolizes duality and the fine balance between the feminine and masculine energies. Those who want to express their connection with balance and harmony find this the best Shiva tattoo for them.
Adiyogi
The ancient yogi or the meditator form of Shiva depicts calmness and serenity. The embodiment of truth and knowledge, the meditator pose attracts people who seek the truth themselves and find a connection with meditation.
Aghori
Aghori tattoo designs represent freeing oneself from all illusion and embracing primitiveness. Surpassing all fears and understanding that everything is Shiva, symbolises purity to those who believe in it. The wanderer form of Shiva as an Aghori sadhu is the best Shiva tattoo for those who wish to embrace fearlessness with a touch of spirituality.
Mahakal Tattoo
Call upon the divine power of time with a Mahakal Tattoo. Representing Lord Shiva as the great destroyer of sin, this robust design is the epitome of strength, courage and spiritual power. Ink yourself with the eternal energy of Mahakal with Sam Tattoo India.
Kaal Bhairav Tattoo
Unleash the fierce guardian within. A Kaal Bhairav tattoo represents the destruction of negativity and safeguarding against evil forces. This powerful, detailed design symbolises divine justice, power and unshakeable faith in Lord Shiva’s most fierce avatar. Get inked at Sam Tattoo India!
Shiv Shakti Tattoo
Celebrate the cosmic equilibrium with a Shiv Shakti tattoo. The design beautifully combines the male (Shiva) and female (Shakti) energies, representing harmony, creation and divine power eternal. Get this tattoo inked at Sam Tattoo India if you are a true believer in divine duality.
Neelkanth Tattoo
Celebrate the benevolent warrior with a Neelkanth tattoo. Symbolising Lord Shiva’s capacity to intake poison to end the world, this tattoo portrays sacrifice, toughness and unending strength. A bold design for those who believe in endurance, get this tattoo at Sam Tattoo India.
Kailash Nath Tattoo
Mount Kailash is believed to be Shiva’s eternal residence, a site of peace and spiritual enlightenment. A Kailash Nath tattoo represents Lord Shiva in a meditation pose on Mount Kailash, which reflects peace of mind, detachment and spiritual growth. This tattoo would suit wisdom-seekers and those who share Shiva;s meditative approach.
Rudra Avatar Tattoo
The Rudra Avatar tattoo represents Shiva’s manifestation as the intense storm god, Rudra. This tattoo is representative of destruction, transformation and rebirth, which are all symbols of the cycle of life. Those who can handle change and fearless renewal will profoundly appreciate this design.
Third Eye Tattoos
The Third Eye tattoo symbolises Shiva’s omniscient divine wisdom. When he opens his third eye, illusion and evil are annihilated. The tattoo is a strong symbol of clearness, higher consciousness and seeking the truth. It is perfect for those who are looking for enlightenment and insight into something greater than the material world.
Shiva Lingam
The Shiva Lingam tattoo represents divine power, creation and eternity. Symbolising the boundless energy of Lord Shiva, the Lingam is revered as the origin of all existence. The tattoo is a deep spiritual symbol, ideal for those who wish to have the essence of the divine with them.
Pashupatinath
Lord Pashupatinath is worshipped as the guardian of all living things. A Pashupatinath tattoo symbolises divine compassion, mercifulness and sacred harmony between human beings and nature. It is great for people who highly value life and want to bear Shiva’s blessing for protection and guidance.
Shiva Ganga Tattoo
A Shiva Ganga tattoo symbolises the divine moment when the River Ganga flows down from Shiva’s hair, representing purification, knowledge and blessings from God. The tattoo portrays spiritual emancipation and the perpetual flow of divine energy, so it is a lovely design for those who yearn for enlightenment.
Shiva Nandi Tattoo
Nandi, the divine bull, is Lord Shiva’s eternal mount and represents unwavering devotion, trust and bravery. He is also a symbol of the divine bull. People who have a strong belief in the concept of unwavering loyalty, trust and spiritual companionship are the perfect candidates for a Shiva Nandi tattoo.
Shiva Abhaya Mudra Tattoo
Abhaya Mudra is a gesture of fearlessness, reassurance and divine blessing. Shiva Abhaya Mudra tattoo is a symbol of protection from injury, inner peace and the courage to encounter the challenges of life. It is the perfect tattoo for people looking for strength and divine intervention.
Shiva Lotus Pose (Padmasana)
A Shiva Lotus Pose tattoo portrays Lord Shiva in a meditative mood, seated in Padmasana (Lotus Position). It signifies serenity, spiritual enlightenment and transcendence above worldly life. This tattoo is an excellent reminder to remain centred and attentive in the course of life.
Tandava Pose Tattoo
The Tandava Pose tattoo features Shiva’s dance of the universe, the Tandava, which signifies destruction and creation. This powerful design depicts the continuous movement of the universe and is ideal for people who welcome transformation, energy and divine rhythm into their lives.
Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra Tattoo
Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra is among the most powerful Hindu mantras that are said to bring protection, healing and long life. Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra tattoo offers divine favour and protects the wearer from harm and fear; hence, it is a very good choice for spiritual protection.
Shiva As Bhairava
The Shiva As Bhairava tattoo displays Shiva as his most violent incarnation, Bhairava, the annihilator of illusions and fear. It symbolises huge strength, courage and divine justice; hence, it is a powerful design for those who fight evil and injustice.
Vishwanatha (Lord Of Universe) Shiva With Background Of Universe
Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra is among the most powerful Hindu mantras that are said to bring protection, healing and long life. Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra tattoo offers divine favour and protects the wearer from harm and fear; hence, it is a very good choice for spiritual protection.
Veerbhadra Roop Tattoo
A Veerbhadra Roop Tattoo reflects Shiva’s warrior image, which was formed by his anger to eliminate evil. It represents justice, protection and divine wrath for unrighteousness. This tattoo suits the ones who are as bold and righteous as warriors.
Rudranath Tattoo
The Rudranath Tattoo symbolises Shiva’s Rudra form—a form that is both devastating and protective. It signifies Shiva’s capability to destroy the negative and initiate renewal. The tattoo is most suitable for people who are in need of change, protection and inner power.
But the art of Shiva tattoos does not stop at inking various forms of Shiva. Other commonly preferred ways of visualising Shiva through a tattoo are customizations by combining various forms and avatars, getting your Shiva tattoo conceptualised around themes, and including words of significance both symbolic and personal.
Symbolisms associated with Shiva are popular among people who do not want elaborate or bigger tattoos while still feeling connected to Shiva. Some of the commonly used symbolism include the third eye which depicts enlightenment and the ability to observe the chakras and auras of the body, the Trishul which represents the three gunas and upholding of the three aspects of consciousness and the symbol of power and protection, and the Damru which is a representation of the cosmic sound that creates and sustains the universe. It is said to represent the rhythm of life, death, and rebirth.
The other symbolisms include the Vibuthi (sacred ashes), rudraksha, OM (the symbol of the divine sound), the serpent, and river Ganga which is often combined with other forms of Shiva tattoos and symbols to form some of the best Shiva tattoos. Some people also prefer tattoos of the name chants of Shiva like Om Namaha Shivaya or the Mrityunjay mantra, either as a standalone or in combination with other tattoos of Shiva.
That was a quick brief of what some of the best Shiva tattoos look like. But we understand that the process of choosing your tattoos can be more complex and deeply personal. So, if you still need help customising and expressing your story get in touch with our experts and they will help you finalise your personalised best Shiva tattoo.
Get your Shiva tattoo now and join the club of empowering people who share their stories through dreams, hopes, and the elaborate art of Shiva tattoos.