When selecting a tattoo design, it must evoke meaning for you. Hawaiian designs offer the ideal way to showcase your identity and beliefs.
Honu: The Iconic Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle
The honu is a symbol of longevity and good luck. It is the only indigenous reptile found in Hawaii and is significant in the islands’ history. The honu is commonly depicted in traditional Polynesian tattoo art, representing wisdom, protection, and family. In some cultures, it is believed that when an ancestor needs to interact with humans, their spirit may take the form of a honu. Honu are important figures in Hawaiian legends, with one famous story involving a large honu named Kauila transforming into a girl to protect children on a beach.
Shark: Symbol of Strength and Courage
Sharks are revered and powerful creatures in Polynesian cultures, often seen as gods or protectors. They symbolize strength and courage. Shark tattoos are popular in Polynesian culture and are often combined with symbols like shells, waves, and circles for added effect. If you want a Hawaiian shark tattoo, ensure your artist has experience in traditional Polynesian tattooing techniques, as they can be time-consuming and require patience.
Tiki: Iconic Polynesian Figure
A tiki is a figure made of wood or stone that holds great cultural significance in Polynesian culture. It represents power and serves as an attractive decorative object. Tikis are often inspired by ancient Hawaiian legends and depicted as deities or guardian figures. It is believed that tikis have the power to protect against evil spirits and bring good fortune. They were initially used to communicate between Hawaiian people and their gods.
Hibiscus: Symbol of Love and Beauty
Hibiscus flowers symbolize love, friendship, beauty, hospitality, and passion. There are over 200 types of hibiscus flowers, all featuring petals with different shades and textures. The color of the flower holds significance as well. Red is the most favored color, pink represents affection and friendship, and purple represents mystery and knowledge. It is essential to consider the color when getting a tattoo with floral imagery, as it can change the meaning.
Sea Turtle: Symbol of Peace and Patience
Sea turtles are gentle creatures and symbolize peace and spiritual guidance. They represent that everything happens at a pace, and rushing leads to frustration. Encounter with a sea turtle can indicate that it’s time to slow down and take each step slowly. Sea turtles are also symbols of longevity and patience, with their exceptionally long lifespans.
When getting a tattoo, choosing a design that holds personal meaning to you is crucial. Hawaiian tattoo designs express your identity and beliefs through symbols such as the honu, shark, tiki, hibiscus, and sea turtle. These designs not only showcase the beauty of Hawaiian culture but also carry deep significance in their meanings.
