Tribal Tattoo Symbolism

Tribal tattoo symbolism is one of the most interesting and complex byproducts of the body modification industry. The tribal tattoo, once practiced by a select few in Pacific Island and African cultures, is now one of the most popular tattoos in the world. It is the symbolism of tribal tattoos that gives them an otherworldly quality and deftly bridges the gap between the modern world and a culturally rich past. 

Unlike other forms of tattoos, tribal tattoos are intended to convey a “feel” rather than depict an actual physical object. With their distinctive sharp black lines and aggressive patterns, tribal tattoos don’t simply make a statement….they positively scream it. And what they are screaming is ‘strength’ and ‘protection.’

This was no different for islanders living in the area of the world near Polynesia. For the past 3000 years tribal tattoos in this part of the world have exploded in their creativity and significance. (The word tattoo comes from the Tahitian ‘tatu.’) Warriors in Borneo would use, and still use, elaborate tribal tattoos to not only scare their enemies, but also to help their fellow comrades identify them. And in Samoa, a full body suit of tribal tattoos was considered a necessary and very painful rite of passage for any teenager entering manhood.

It is in the Maori culture of New Zealand that tribal tattoo symbolism took a huge leap forward. To these indigenous people the Moko style of tattoo, by which tribal tattoos are painfully drawn on the face, tribal tattoos were an absolute necessity in the afterlife. Here, tribal tattoo symbolism finds its loftiest expression as it was believed that tribal tattoos helped spirits find dead Maoris—lest they wander lost forever.

Today tribal tattoos mix the old aesthetic with modern tattoo techniques that allow for much more intricate designs. Whether tribal tattoo symbolism informs your reason for getting a tribal tat doesn’t really matter. It’s just cool to know that this awesome-looking tat on your arm---has also been used for the last 3000 years to keep away evil spirits.