Ancient Greek tattoos, or "stigmata" as they were called back then, were used in many different forms. They were originally used as a way to mark someone as "belonging" to a particular group or segment of society. For example, they were frequently used as a punishment for criminals. This was a way to inflict pain and mark them as criminals so the rest of the population would be able to identify them.
People were tattooed with a distinct design if they belonged to a certain religious sect. Others marked their slaves with unique designs, a branding used as a form of ownership. Ancient Greek tattoos were also used as a form of communication amongst spies, a way to show their rank and their roll in the organization.
Tattoos gradually became more of a form of self-expression. Early designs included the Greek cross, a cross with four equal arms that eventually became the "+" sign in mathematics. The architectural design border of the Greek key became popular and were used as wristbands, armbands, and ankle bands. This design is now commonly known as a sign of the circle of life.
A fun form of tattooing was an expression of phrases using their alphabet symbols. A popular phrase still used today is "Pistis, elpis, agape" which means "Faith, hope, love". One of the most spectacular and extravagant forms of expression was the use of the gods, goddesses, and stories of Greek Mythology. Still ever popular, Greek mythology designs make the most stunning tattoos around.
Ancient Greek Tattoos are still widely used in today's designs. Finding the right Greek tattoo specific to you and your personality can take a little work on your behalf.
About 25% of people who get tattoos are not happy with the outcome. Don't let that happen to you. Research Ancient Greek Tattoos, download designs that you like, and print them out to view.
It's better to have your design idea in your hand when you walk into the parlor than to try and figure it out once you're there. To get more design ideas and awesome printable designs visit http://www.squidoo.com/Greek-Tattoo.
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