Compass Tattoo Essay

Words: 509
Pages: 3

Compass Tattoos have been a very popular choice among many cultures for centuries. The maritime symbol was mainly popular with early sailors as it was thought that getting the tattoo would actually protect you on extremely rough waters and make sure that you returned home safely. Even today, many use this same compass tattoo meanings that others used long ago.

The main reasons sailors and adventurers opted for the compass tattoo was protection. Images of the compass were painted on the ships as a token of good luck. The seas were rough and wildly unforgiving and often the men onboard, and the ship would disappear at times without a trace. Thus the images symbolized hope that they would, in the end, be guided from the treacherous waters alive.
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Military servicemen and women have used it as a symbol of their loyalty and reliance to their branch in the military. It can also be associated with being a religious symbol. As the compass has been entrusted for centuries, it's an ancient symbol of security and safety. Anchors, axes, boots and seabirds can be used to symbolize a hiking or naval background.

3. Inspiration and Luck

The compass can be used as a bringer of luck and inspiration. People who get lost can use it to bring themselves inspiration. Since it is a practical tool, the compass is used as a symbol of luck like other practical tools, for example, horseshoes. Because it's always pointing to the north, many view it as a beacon of inspiration. In times of urgency or need, we are always inspired by insights and epiphanies.

4. Other meanings
A compass without a direction indicator can show a broken compass. One with a wildly spinning arrow can mean confusion or uncertainty. One with a considerable long chain can show attachment to the associated meaning. For instance, a chain connected to a religious item and a compass could indicate that the person gets their direction and guidance from that religion. A broken face plate can mean a lack of dependence on such tools. A compass that's moldy or water filled can show age or