What Does A Scarab Tattoo Mean?
The scarab beetle has been an enduring symbol in art and culture since ancient Egypt. At its core, the scarab is simply a dung beetle (Scarabaeus Sacer), but its significance extends far beyond its humble origins. In ancient Egyptian mythology, the sun god Khepri was depicted as a man with a beetle head, elevating the scarab to sacred status. The association between Khepri and the scarab is rooted in the daily cycle of life, where the sun symbolises energy and rebirth.
This sacredness extended beyond its symbolic value, as scarabs were used as amulets, impression seals, and accessories by ancient Egyptians, believed to guide every soul through the afterlife. In death, the heart scarabs played a crucial role in the Hall of Judgement, acting as a substitute for the heart if it was deemed too heavy. The scarab’s protective powers also held the answers to questions posed by underworld gods.
As such, the scarab symbol has significance that spans from birth to death, making a scarab tattoo meaningful and versatile. This rich history has inspired many artists and tattoo enthusiasts to ink the little insect on their body as a mythological godly figure. While traditional Egyptian depictions are stunning, contemporary and stylized forms have also emerged, further solidifying the scarab’s status as an incredibly versatile symbol.
Black Ink Scarab Tattoo
The scarab beetle’s beauty lies in its simplicity, allowing it to remain stunning even when rendered without color. A skilled artist can effortlessly create a captivating design using only black ink, ensuring the tattoo looks equally impressive. To truly honor this symbol’s significance, an artist must dedicate themselves fully to the craft. As the bearer of this tattoo, you’ll simply need to appreciate and respect the scarab’s cultural importance, just as the Egyptians did.
You’re free to place this design anywhere on your body, and its striking appearance will undoubtedly make a statement. If you do choose to incorporate color, consider a bold black hue to create maximum impact.
Minimal Scarab Tattoo
A timeless choice for those who appreciate understated elegance, a minimalist scarab tattoo offers a perfect blend of symbolism and simplicity. For those captivated by the mythology surrounding this ancient Egyptian icon, a delicate design featuring subtle sun and wing details can make for a beautiful and meaningful addition to their body art. This unassuming tattoo boasts clean lines and a limited color palette, resulting in a sophisticated look that effortlessly embodies artistic minimalism.
Metallic Scarab Tattoo
Are you torn between the numerous scarab design ideas? Why not take inspiration from nature itself? The metallic skin of a dung beetle offers a realistic and unique canvas for your tattoo artist. Add some wing details reminiscent of ancient Egyptian scarabs, and you’ll have an original piece that’s sure to turn heads. Consider placing it on your forearm, like the model in the image, or choose another spot that resonates with you.
As you wear this symbol of life and rebirth on your skin, you’ll embody the power and resilience that comes with carrying a meaningful design.
Traditional Scarab Tattoo
The allure of a traditional tattoo, particularly an Egyptian-inspired design, lies in its timeless appeal. One of our favorite examples is the combination of Anubis and the blue scarab tattoo, which exudes vibrancy and perfection. As the god of embalming, Anubis played a crucial role in the afterlife, accompanying deceased kings and overseeing the embalming process.
In the life-judgment ceremony, where Osiris assessed the worthiness of these kings, Anubis carefully balanced their hearts on one side of the scale against Ma’at’s principles on the other. Thoth then recorded the results, determining whether the king would be granted entry into the Egyptian afterlife. This traditional tattoo celebrates Egyptian mythology and offers a unique way to showcase one’s knowledge of ancient lore.
Scarab Bastet Tattoo
Incorporating ancient Egyptian mysticism into a modern tattoo design, this stunning piece combines the symbolism of Bastet, the Goddess of home, domesticity, and fertility, with that of the scarab beetle. The result is an artistic masterpiece that would be hard to improve upon. The artist’s exceptional line-work brings this design to life, capturing the essence of Bastet’s dual roles in both childbirth and guiding souls in the afterlife.
For those who appreciate the antiquity and mysticism surrounding this goddess, this tattoo is a compelling option. And even if the historical significance doesn’t sway you, the impeccable design alone makes it a worthwhile consideration.
Colourful Scarab Tattoo
Intricately designed scarab tattoos offer a unique canvas for self-expression, allowing you to unleash your creativity and bring forth a vibrant, personalized work of art. The abundance of colour options provides endless possibilities for showcasing your artistic flair. This stunning piece of body art not only pays homage to Egyptian heritage but also boasts an extraordinary level of detail, from the lush green hues to the minute metallic accents in white.
Every aspect of this design has been meticulously crafted, demonstrating a deep understanding of the importance of nuance and precision in creating truly remarkable art.
Scarab Back Tattoo
A back tattoo bearing the symbolism of a scarab is deeply personal, as it’s only fully visible to others under specific circumstances. The space provided by this location allows for an unparalleled level of creativity and intricacy. A skilled artist has utilized bold black ink to meticulously capture every detail of the scarab beetle, resulting in a stunning piece of body art.
For those seeking a more vibrant expression, back scarab tattoos also offer the flexibility to incorporate rich, colorful hues that will undoubtedly impress.
Scarab Chest Tattoo
Incorporating ancient Egyptian symbolism onto one’s chest through tattoos serves as a powerful declaration of strength and masculinity. The scarab beetle, in particular, is a bold choice, evoking images of resilience and fearlessness. As a motif, it signifies that the individual is unafraid to confront challenges head-on, much like the revered god Khepri who rose from the ashes of the old world each morning.
The artist’s skillful execution of this design is evident in the intricate details and clever incorporation of a skull at the scarab’s back, creating a visually striking piece that is sure to make a statement. For those seeking an Egyptian-inspired chest tattoo, this design provides a unique opportunity to merge ancient mythology with modern artistic expression.
Feel free to add a splash of color to bring out the boldness and confidence embodied by this powerful symbol, and let it serve as a constant reminder of your unwavering bravery.
Scarab And Hieroglyphs Tattoo
Hieroglyphics, literally meaning ‘divine writings’, were an ancient form of writing used by the Egyptians to convey sacred messages and stories on temple walls. These inscriptions, painted or carved with intricate detail, hold significant importance in understanding the Egyptian civilization. Inspired by this rich history, a tattoo featuring a scarab beetle on a hieroglyphic background inked with bold black lines can serve as a striking symbol of Egyptian mythology.
When consulting with your tattoo artist, consider incorporating this design element to showcase your appreciation for ancient Egyptian culture.
Scarab Dagger Tattoo
For those who are deeply enamored with The Mummy (1999) and have a fascination with ancient Egyptian history, this unique tattoo design is an absolute must-have. Inspired by the iconic sacrificial dagger from the film, this ink combines the symbolism of the scarab motif to create a truly distinctive piece. While it’s possible to keep things simple with a black design, adventurous souls can opt for a colorful rendition that allows their creativity to shine.
With intricate detailing involved, it’s essential to find an experienced tattoo artist who has a proven track record in crafting such designs. Once you’ve settled on the design, be sure to discuss every detail with your artist, ensuring that your final piece is exactly as you envision it. By doing so, you’ll be blessed with prosperity and a one-of-a-kind work of art that turns heads wherever you go.
What is a scarab tattoo?
The ancient symbol of the scarab beetle has been reimagined in modern times through the medium of tattoos. The scarab’s significance in Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia lies not only in its representation of renewal and resurrection but also in its connotations of protection, good luck, transformation, and spiritual growth.
When applied to the human body as a tattoo design, the scarab takes on personal meanings for each individual, serving as a reminder of life’s impermanence and the importance of living in the present moment. As a form of self-expression, scarab tattoos can encapsulate one’s values, passions, and philosophical outlook on life, making them a powerful symbol to wear.
What does a scarab tattoo represent?
The symbolic significance of a scarab tattoo is multifaceted, encompassing themes of transformation, spiritual growth, protection, and good fortune. Furthermore, this ancient symbol is often linked to the cycles of life, death, and rebirth, as well as living in harmony with the present moment. As such, it can serve as a poignant reminder of the impermanence of all things and a celebration of the journey we embark upon.
The versatility of its symbolism also makes it an attractive choice for individuals seeking to commemorate significant events or express their deeply held beliefs and passions.
What are the different types of scarab tattoos?
Scarab tattoos offer a wealth of creative possibilities, with designs ranging from delicate and understated to bold and intricate. The size of the body canvas can influence the overall scale of the design, allowing for a range of visual effects. While vibrant color schemes and ornate patterns are common in scarab tattoos, minimalist approaches featuring simple lines and shapes also yield striking results.
Moreover, combining scarabs with other symbols opens up a world of meaning and interpretation. For instance, pairing a scarab with solar or lunar motifs can represent balance and harmony, while flames can signify transformation and rebirth. Regardless of the design’s complexity or simplicity, a scarab tattoo is always imbued with profound symbolism.
How much does a scarab tattoo cost?
The cost of a scarab tattoo largely depends on its size, intricacy, and placement. Generally, smaller designs are more budget-friendly than larger ones. The time required by the artist to create your unique piece also plays a significant role in determining the final price. Typically, prices for scarab tattoos range from $50 to $200, though they can vary depending on the artist’s skill level and expertise.
To get an accurate estimate of the cost, it is best to consult with a professional tattoo artist and discuss your specific design concept.