Forever and now in ink on skin
January 11, 2006 12:10 AM Subscribe
Tattoo planning: I'm looking for related symbols (by meaning, not appearance) of the lemniscate, enso, ouroboros, and apparently whatever the symbol between the buddha's eyes is called.
Apparently they've got somewhat related meanings...the infinite, oneness of everything, etc. What other symbols are there?
If it helps with suggestions, I'm looking for something that brings in my love of the concept of infinity, the changes in my mind that accompanied learning about Zen buddhism, and my extreme computer-geek nature.
Apparently they've got somewhat related meanings...the infinite, oneness of everything, etc. What other symbols are there?
If it helps with suggestions, I'm looking for something that brings in my love of the concept of infinity, the changes in my mind that accompanied learning about Zen buddhism, and my extreme computer-geek nature.
The snake swallowing its tail is used to represent ouroboros, is it not?
posted by fixedgear at 2:20 AM on January 11, 2006
posted by fixedgear at 2:20 AM on January 11, 2006
The looks-like-a-question-mark between the Buddha's eyes is the Nepali numeral ek (1). The circle is a traditional symbol of unity, for obvious reasons. And the tetragrammaton could always go in there. (Tattoos and buddhism? Hm.)
posted by holgate at 2:56 AM on January 11, 2006
posted by holgate at 2:56 AM on January 11, 2006
The triquetra might fit the bill, if you don't mind the trinity + infinity symbolism. If you had something more elaborate in mind, how about basing your tattoo on one of Jan Luyken’s illustrations to the works of Jakob Böhme?
posted by misteraitch at 4:51 AM on January 11, 2006
posted by misteraitch at 4:51 AM on January 11, 2006
"The Auspicious or Endless Knot is a geometric diagram which symbolises the nature of reality where everything is interrelated and only exists as part of a web of karma and its effect. Having no beginning or end, it also represents the infinite wisdom of the Buddha, and the union of compassion and wisdom. Also, it represents the illusory character of time, and long life as it is endless." ( link)
I have this one on my shoulder.
posted by kudzu at 5:54 AM on January 11, 2006
I have this one on my shoulder.
posted by kudzu at 5:54 AM on January 11, 2006
So you used to play Champions; does that mean you've read Watchmen? If so, howzabout Dr. Manhattan's hydrogen symbol?
posted by kimota at 6:44 AM on January 11, 2006
posted by kimota at 6:44 AM on January 11, 2006
The Ice Cream Kid is an updated version of the ouroboros symbol.
posted by alms at 6:55 AM on January 11, 2006
posted by alms at 6:55 AM on January 11, 2006
If you're into Zen, just tell people you have a tattoo. A flesh-coloured one.
posted by AmbroseChapel at 4:15 PM on January 11, 2006
posted by AmbroseChapel at 4:15 PM on January 11, 2006
This thread is closed to new comments.
posted by xyzzy at 1:30 AM on January 11, 2006