There are a great deal of classic tattoo designs that continue to be popular from decade to decade and one of the favorites chosen to reflect one’s religious beliefs has to be the rock of ages tattoo, which is also referred to as the sailor’s cross.
This was originally popular with seaman hence its nautical origins however the original “The Rock of Ages” was a stone cross from biblical times. This particular image as body art can depict either a sailor or a women kneeling in front of a cross carved from solid granite. The symbolism behind this represents the strength of one’s religious beliefs and faith that will last for eternity. According to Christianity, man’s faith in god was considered to be the foundation rock on which to build a virtuous life devoted to God, like the stone foundations of a house which determine how strong the building will be long term.
Tattooing has long been synonymous with sailors and it was seafarers who brought the art to the rest of the world from their travels among the Polynesian tribes who regularly used this practice. However, the significance of a rock of ages tattoo among sailors ties in with nautical superstition as well as religious beliefs. Sailors commonly believed that a religious symbol tattooed on the body would act as a lucky talisman to keep the wearer safe and protected so that he will always get safely home to shore. As body art, this is one of the oldest designs on record and its origins can be traced back over a hundred years.
Despite previous beliefs by many Christians that tattooing was prohibited – in the bible Leviticus makes a strong reference about not desecrating one’s body with markings – Christianity is now more open to this practice. Over the past decade there has been a huge increase in symbols related to Christianity and the cross in particular is one of the most widely requested images. Not surprisingly therefore, body art designs that relate to both religious and spiritual beliefs continue to grow in popularity with many Christians opting for a rock of ages tattoo as a celebration of their faith. To many, this style of tattoo not only adequately expresses their religious beliefs but is also a constant and comforting presence that reminds them of the divine to bring them closer to God and His love. However this theme of body art is also popular as a symbol of re-birth, renewal of faith and healing.
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