The lotus tattoo pictured in the photograph is a perfect example of what one can do when working with ancient symbols. The artist has combined the lotus with the symbolism of a candle. Both symbols have similar meanings as being casters of the light that dispels darkness. They can both be seen also as illuminators of the human soul. When taking as a whole, especially with the red color, this lotus tattoo means casting off the cloak of ignorance and embracing enlightenment. This lotus tattoo also has additional meanings that not many people are familiar with. In many Eastern religions, the lotus carries the same significance as the rose does in Christianity. Just as the "Rose of Sharon" – a flower that blooms in the desert – is the symbol of Christ, the lotus likewise emerges from the mud as the symbol of the Buddha in many parts of Asia. In Tantric and Yoga philosophy, the body’s seven energy centres (or "chakras") are crowned at the top of the skull by the "thousand-petaled lotus" which symbolizes the attainment of enlightenment. Regardless of the religion of the bearer of this lotus tattoo, it’s obviously a person looking to get greater meaning out of their existence.
This is a beautiful and well done example of a lotus tattoo. This flower design has had deep cultural and symbolic meanings since the dawn of mankind. In modern times the meaning of a lotus flower tattoo ties into it’s religious symbolism and meaning. Most tattoo enthusiast feel that the a lotus tattoo represent life in general. As the lotus flower grows up from the mud into a object of great beauty people also grow and change into something more beautiful. So the symbol represent the struggle of life at its most basic form. Lotus flower and peonies are also two flowers that are very popular among Japanese tattoo artists and they make a great compliment to koi Fish tattoos. Ironically enough the two koi fish and lotus flowers can often be found in the same pond in front of a temple. The koi fish is a symbol typically for strength and the power to overcome impossible odds. Within Hinduism and Buddhism the lotus tattoo has become a symbol for awakening to the spiritual reality of life. So, the lotus has not only infiltrated the popular artwork of these cultures but have also permeated the tattoo art forms as well.
