What does an owl tattoo mean. What does an owl tattoo mean for men? Choice of location and style

What do you need to know first? The owl in many ancient cultures is a symbol of insight, wisdom and enlightenment. The wearable drawing depicting this bird means knowledge and life experience. At the same time, the symbol is much deeper and more multifaceted than it might seem to the layman. Therefore, we will talk about the ambiguity of the image of an owl in different cultures.

Dark cult of the night bird

The owl is a bird of prey that hunts at night. Many occult practices are associated with the worship of this animal, which personifies the mystery of the night. Owls are a reflection of loneliness, sadness and death. As you can see, the owl is a very ambiguous symbol.

In the customs of many peoples, one can observe the worship of this animal, reverence for the wisdom and mystery of the night. Many people associate an owl with witchcraft, and for good reason. Evil spirits and witches are characters that are inextricably linked with owls. Birds are often found in folk superstitions as harbingers of something bad. Perhaps that is why the owl remains a demonic dark symbol to this day.

Let's dive a little into the past. In ancient Rome, the cry of an owl was a harbinger of misfortune. In medieval Europe, Christians believed that an owl is a reincarnated witch flying to the sabbath. The Celts called the animal a dead bird, which clearly emphasizes the dark side of this symbol. Interestingly, many Asian and African peoples depicted an owl on funeral attributes, which also evokes very understandable associations.

Why does the owl have such a dark glory? This is due to the primitive animal fear that arose in a person when he met a bird with burning eyes, uttering afterlife cries in the silence of the night. The owl, suddenly appearing from the mourning darkness, left a depressing impression. And so the glory of the ominous messenger of bad news stuck with the owl for many millennia.

However, the image of a bird is multifaceted and not so unambiguous. In many cultures, this animal is perceived in a fundamentally different way. Let's open the other side of the coin.

Wisdom and composure

An owl as a symbol can also be viewed from a different angle. It is no secret that in folklore owls have always been the personification of life experience and erudition. At the same time, the bird as a symbol reflects not so much a carefree desire for knowledge as a cold mind and the insight of a predator.

The owl is the constant companion of Athena, the goddess, who among the ancient Greeks was the patroness of wisdom. On silver coins, Athena was depicted together with the bird of the night.

Why did the ancient Greeks like this bird so much? Everything is very simple. Observing the way of life of an owl, the Greeks discovered its similarity with the way of life of a lonely philosopher. And the magnificent vision that allows birds to see in the dark was perceived as insight. Since then, the owl has been a symbol of understanding the essence of things.

The owl as a symbol is also associated with such a mysterious phenomenon as a dream. The meaning of an owl tattoo can also be associated with astral or psychedelic travel.

To hit or not to hit?

So, what does an owl tattoo mean? This symbol can have a variety of meanings. For example, a white owl represents purity, wisdom and eternity. A black owl with fiery eyes will become a symbol of mystery, darkness and knowledge.

Often, girls prefer such tattoos, as many associate their mysterious personality with this particular totem. Owl tattoo has a special meaning for girls. This is a symbol of female insight and the ability to understand the essence, unattainable for most people.

Owl Tattoo Ideas

  • White owl full face, personifying the symbol of philosophical wisdom;
  • A black owl with fiery eyes and outstretched wings as an artistic embodiment of the dark side of being;
  • A colorful owl depicted in a Native American style using a wide range of colored inks;
  • Tattoo on the neck depicting an owl with open wings;
  • Bright tattoo depicting a "cartoon" owl.

The presented photos will help you with choosing an idea for a tattoo. Find a finished sketch on our website or order an exclusive work from an experienced craftsman. But do not rush to fill the owl. This thought must stand with time, because such a symbol requires a sober, balanced decision.

What do owl tattoos mean? By the way, appreciate the value of the phoenix tattoo! What is the meaning of an owl tattoo in girls? The Chinese indicate the negative meaning of the owl tattoo. It means death and misfortune. The owl tattoo is described in a wide variety of meanings. On the hand, a tattoo with an owl indicates the wisdom and mystery of the girl. As a rule, sketches of an owl in the form of tattoos are drawn by those prisoners who are pessimistic about their lives. The meaning of an owl tattoo is also defined as renunciation from the whole world or death. However, among a number of other peoples, the owl also had positive symbolism. Therefore, the general meaning of an owl tattoo today is not uniform - wisdom and fear, loneliness, higher intelligence, seal and joy. Among the Chinese, the owl also embodied all possible evil: yang - the destructive principle, crimes and death itself. In the mythology of Ancient Greece and the Roman Empire, the owl has always accompanied Athena, the goddess of learning and wisdom.

In Christianity, this night bird has become a symbol of impurity and witchcraft, as well as spiritual blindness and unbelief. In Hinduism, the owl was chosen as a symbol of cosmic spirituality. In Madagascar, it is believed that owls gather with witches and dance on the graves of the dead.

Feather tattoo: meaning and photo

As you can see, an owl is perceived differently, and the meaning of an owl tattoo will depend on the manner and context in which this bird is drawn. And how the bearer of the tattoo perceives it. The owl is often applied by people who are nocturnal, mysterious, intimidating and wise. Every tattoo has a meaning.
Most people treat owls in much the same way as other fairly rare birds. For someone, the image of an owl is made up of read books and watched movies or cartoons. However, lovers of tattoo art know slightly different meanings of an owl tattoo, some of which make sense to look closely. The Chinese consider owls the embodiment of evil. In some Christian beliefs, owls are also considered symbols of death and sorrow.

Dreamcatcher tattoo meaning on arm

In practice, it is unlikely that a Chinese or Japanese will run away from you screaming when they see an owl on a tattoo. Such a tattoo is suitable for an adult, calm and wise person. The owl is a somewhat ominous (imbued, right?) and gloomy symbol, but in the 21st century, after watching horror films, we are unlikely to endow this wonderful bird with any negative properties. And owls and their feathers in the Indian manner allegedly serve as a talisman. Girls with such tattoos clearly love the neckline and are by no means shy about their breasts.
Liked this one. But from the above photos, 2 more have exactly the same. These owls are popular now, and then they will be annoying, like paws on the chest, hieroglyphs, etc. Thanks to your article, I once again became convinced that a tattoo is still not mine. And thank God that in my bad time I didn’t prick myself with something like that, now I would be very sorry.
Today I was at sea and saw a tattoo on blurry ladies with stretch marks, it does not look aesthetically pleasing. And I can’t imagine a person working in a bank or in another reputable institution with tattoos on his arms and other parts of the body that the suit does not hide.
Because the tattoos are in places that will be open in everyday clothes, this is not good. In general, if you do a tattoo, then so that later you will not be forced to give up some type of clothing to cover the drawing. In Christianity - the devil, darkness, sorrow, death; in Egypt and Mexico - death, cold and night, in Japan - an owl tattoo means a bad omen and, again, death.

By the way, I noticed that owls from the movie "Legends of the Night Watchmen" and just polar owls of various stripes are very popular. Most people consider owls to be rare species of birds. For some, owls are associated with smart and wise birds, while for others, owls are the embodiment of mysticism.
Owls are unique in that they can turn their heads 180 degrees. What else does an unusual tattoo mean? Sketches with an owl are a symbol of wisdom and prudence. For many people, a drawn tattoo becomes a talisman from all kinds of evil spirits, enemies and evil thoughts.

Owl tattoo - female options

In Orthodoxy, an owl painted on the body means renunciation of God, unbelief and a craving for foul language. Delicate and colorful color tones on the tattoo attract the eye and are drawn on the body by girls as a sign that they are open for communication and dating. In this case, the meaning of the tattoo can be very different.
An owl tattoo on the zone tells about the past and the life priorities of the inmate. The owl tattoo is one of the most interesting - on the one hand, it represents wisdom and intelligence, on the other hand, it brings death and destruction. Among the Celtic peoples (see Celtic tattoos), the owl was called nothing more than a "night witch" and a "cadaverous bird." On the other hand, since the owl and eagle owl can see in the dark, owl tattoo sketches indicate the gift of foresight.
It is this meaning that has spread throughout the world. The feather is, first of all, a symbol of family ties and spiritual unity. The feather tattoo is popular with both guys and girls. In addition to the main interpretation of the feather tattoo, there are several other equally important meanings. As a rule, only one feather is chosen for a tattoo. It can be a feather of an eagle, an owl, a phoenix, a rooster, a peacock, a swallow, an ostrich and a turkey.
And they were worn mostly by priests. For example, I want to link two tattoos in one: a dreamcatcher with owl feathers and a phoenix with spread wings on it, and all this neatly on the back. I'm trying to sketch. Tattoos on the arm for men and women have always been considered a sign of fortitude and emphasized their individuality. Tattoos for girls on the arm are different in that they are lighter and weightless, emphasizing the femininity and tenderness of their owner.
Many of our clients ask themselves: "How much does a tattoo on the arm cost"? Depending on the type and size of the drawing, the price may vary. Lightness and weightlessness - all this can mean tattoos in the form of birds, the meaning of which you can check with the masters in our salon.
Sketches of tattoos depicting owls are quite popular among tattoo lovers on the body. Depending on which part of the body the owl tattoo is located on, its meaning can be explained. The owl brought its positive meaning - spirituality and intellectuality to Russia. If the bird is depicted with a comic meaning, then the meaning of the tattoo indicates a cheerful and carefree life of a girl.

An owl tattoo has many meanings, and when inked on different parts of the body, it takes on a certain meaning.

An owl is a strong and fearsome bird, leading a nocturnal lifestyle, she hunts at this time of day. With its eyes shining in the dark, silent approach and rough voice, the bird inspires terror and fear in all who happen to meet it. That is why the tattoo of this predator is considered a symbol of dark power. Her image is associated with black magic, sorrow, death, and with the whole afterlife.

What does an owl tattoo mean?

For many peoples, an owl tattoo had both a positive and a negative meaning. The Celts considered her a messenger of death, and in China she embodied all kinds of evil, from various crimes, to death itself. The Chinese believed that the cub of this bird pecked out the eyes of its own mother, with which such an identification is connected.

The nocturnal, mysterious bird has always aroused strong interest. However, in Christianity, it has become a symbol of witchcraft and unbelief. In Hinduism, an owl tattoo has the meaning of cosmic spirituality, and in Mexico it symbolized cold and night. In Egypt and India, the bird was considered an intermediary between the worlds, therefore it accompanied the souls of the dead from the world of the living to the afterlife. In Japanese culture, an owl is also a bad sign. The tattoo of an owl on the hand of modern Goths is considered to be a reflection of a soul that has not calmed down.

The Indians, on the contrary, believed that the image of an owl carries only a positive meaning. The drawing on the body of this bird was considered a strong amulet and was a good protection against evil forces. In the culture of Ancient Greece and Rome, the owl was the embodiment of wisdom, therefore it always accompanied the goddess of learning, Athena. Due to the ability to see in the dark, she was considered a seer, so she was often depicted on coins. From this mythology originate all the legends about the "learned owl", wise and reasonable.

Tattoos are made by representatives of all genders. In Russia, the image of an owl has a positive meaning and means spirituality and intelligence, so more and more often it is chosen by the female gender. A tattoo of a large bird of prey, located on the back, will mean wisdom and higher intelligence. The drawing of an owl on its legs is more often done by people who lead a more nocturnal lifestyle, frightening and mysterious. The image of a predator located on the shoulder blade will mean wisdom and loneliness.

The image of an owl among different peoples had an ambiguous meaning, so the exact meaning of a tattoo depends on how the wearer perceives it.

What is the meaning and meaning of an owl tattoo

Owl tattoo is one of the most popular images. Such tattoos are chosen by both men and women. An owl is a mystical, mysterious bird, a symbol of wisdom for some and a herald of hard times and death for others. This bird of prey inspires fear with a frightening voice, eyes glowing in the darkness, and silent flight.

An example of a tattoo with an owl and a dream catcher on the arm

The history of the owl tattoo

Due to the nocturnal lifestyle of many ancient peoples, the owl became an evil, terrifying symbol of dark forces. The owl was associated with death, sorrow, the underworld, with black magic. Although for some nationalities this bird was a positive symbol. For example, among the Indians, an owl meant wisdom, erudition, intelligence, was protection and a talisman. In ancient Greece, the owl accompanied Athena, the silhouette of this bird was depicted on the coins. Therefore, in many European fairy tales we are talking about a wise owl. But in most nations, the owl is still associated with evil. In China, the owl meant evil, crime, death. In the culture of the Celts, the owl was considered a messenger, a dead bird, a night witch. In Japan, Ancient Egypt, this bird of prey was called the patron of the night, the messenger of the other world, the mediator between the world of the living and the dead. In India, it was believed that the owl is the guide of souls to the afterlife. In Mexico, the bird symbolizes cold and night. In Madagascar, these nocturnal birds were believed to dance with witches on the graves of the dead. Christians associate the owl with witchcraft, unbelief and spiritual blindness. In modern culture, the owl symbolizes the mind, wisdom, prudence, erudition, conscious loneliness, vitality.

Owl tattoo on a branch

What does an owl tattoo mean?

The meaning of a tattoo with the image of an owl can be different, depending on what meaning the owner of the tattoo puts into it. Also, the meaning of a tattoo with an owl may depend on the composition in which it is depicted. The main meanings that are laid in the owl tattoo: wisdom, ingenuity, prudence, clear thoughts, intelligence, knowledge, vitality, erudition, mysticism, amulet. A tattoo depicting this nocturnal bird looks impressive. The meaning of a tattoo is determined by the composition and manner of application. Most often, these are bright, eye-catching tattoos.

Large tattoo with an owl and a crown on the chest

Often tattoos with an owl are applied by people who lead a nocturnal lifestyle, are fond of mysticism, or mysterious, extraordinary or wise people. Sometimes owl tattoos are worn by people who want to express a desire to learn new things, to show a love for learning, understanding science. It should be said that the symbolism of owl tattoos is very strong, with a mysterious and mystical energy.

Owl tattoo - meaning

Many girls choose owl tattoos for themselves. After all, the image of this bird has a special appeal, and therefore its image looks stylish and attracts attention. However, at the same time, not everyone knows what the meaning of an owl tattoo is. But this drawing has a rather interesting symbolism, rooted deep into the history of human civilization.

What does an owl tattoo mean?

The living bird itself is already a multi-valued symbol. Since she leads a nocturnal lifestyle, her image would always be shrouded in mystery, bordering on mysticism. And due to the fact that the owl is a predator, she was credited with strength, cruelty, ruthlessness, bloodthirstiness and other unpleasant qualities. She was the embodiment of the inexplicable horror that seizes people in front of the unknown that lurks in the dark, because this bird can see better at night than during the day, and moves completely silently and swiftly, like a ghost.

In many world religions, the owl is associated with the world of the dead, considering it a resident or messenger. Her appearance may be a harbinger of death, some kind of trouble - the Celts, Japanese and Chinese thought so. And Christians in the Middle Ages believed that the owl is the constant companion of sorcerers and black magicians.

However, in other traditions, the image of this bird had a positive meaning. For example, North American Indians inflicted ritual tattoos with the image of an owl on themselves, wanting to gain wisdom and learn to see the hidden. The ancient Greeks also considered the bird to be wise - she always sat on the shoulder of the goddess Athena, the patroness of scientists.

An owl tattoo for girls can mean a desire for knowledge, a penchant for mysticism and esotericism. Such a pattern is often chosen by those who are "owls" in terms of daily activity and lead a predominantly nocturnal lifestyle. If the tattoo is made in an unusual style, then this indicates the girl's tendency to outrageous, her desire to express her individuality.

Owl tattoo on leg

The meaning of an owl tattoo can vary somewhat depending on which part of the girl’s body it is applied to. If the drawing is pricked on the left leg, then this indicates a tendency to introspection, the search for hidden reserves. The mistress of the tattoo is not very happy with the existing order of things and wants to influence her life. An owl tattoo on her right leg means that the girl has already chosen her life path and is going to move along it without turning anywhere.

The meaning of the owl tattoo on the arm

If an owl tattoo is applied to the left hand, then this is tantamount to the statement “I want, which means it will be so.” The girl is going to do what she likes, not paying attention to the opinions of others. Usually, the drawing at this place is pricked by decisive and daring persons. Tattoo on the right hand - the desire for self-expression, some rigidity in actions.

If an owl tattoo is applied on the wrist, then usually the drawing plays the role of a personal amulet. He will protect his mistress from negative energy influences.

Owl tattoo on neck

The drawing of an owl applied in this place indicates that the girl considers herself exceptional, chosen, possessing some unique abilities.

Owl tattoo on chest

The drawing of a bird on the chest suggests that its owner has her own opinion on any life issue and does not want to blindly obey generally accepted norms. Such a tattoo is a kind of challenge to the outside world.

Owl tattoo on back

Drawing on this part of the body is a way of protection from the outside world, and at the same time a symbol of the fact that the owner of the tattoo strives for dominance. She wants, thus, to activate her inner potential and demonstrate it to everyone around.

The meaning of the tattoo "owl" for different people

The owl is often considered a mystical and unusual bird, symbolizing many aspects of both positive and negative aspects. It can mean wisdom and insight, as well as being a harbinger of hard times and even death.

An owl is a bird that inspires mystical fear

Because of her mysterious appearance, loud and disturbing owl voice, people have always attributed special qualities to her. Also, many peoples considered the bird of prey to be a sign of evil and dark forces due to the ability to silently appear under the cover of night. That is, a benevolent attitude towards the owl in some countries was completely absent, for which the species was subjected to extermination.

Symbol meaning:

  1. Ancient Egypt: darkness and cold.
  2. Mexico and Japan: Evil.
  3. China: crimes, death.
  4. Africa and Madagascar: dancing with witches on graves.
  5. India: escorting the dead to the other world.

The Celts also considered it a symbol of evil and death. And for Christians, the bird meant the approach of the devil's army, was a symbol of witchcraft, the absence of spiritual values.

Wisdom and veneration of the owl

Along with a negative meaning, the multifaceted and controversial symbol of an owl carries positive properties:

  1. Among the ancient Greeks, the owl was respected for its inherent wisdom, which was confirmed by the placement of the image of a bird on coins. It was from the inhabitants of the warm valleys that the statement about her mind came. Also in ancient Greece and Rome, the bird was the constant companion of the goddess of wisdom and learning.
  2. In European works of art, the owl is represented by a fairy-tale heroine, significantly prevailing in mental abilities over other birds and animals. They often come to her for advice, carefully listen to reasonable words.
  3. In Russia, the symbol of an owl is associated with study, scientific activity, reason and intellect. Often there is an image of a bird in glasses with books and a pointer.
  4. For the Indians, a wise owl was a protector, a prophetess, a symbol of good luck.

In addition, due to the ability to navigate in the dark, it was often believed that the owl had the gift of foreseeing the future.


What does a bird tattoo mean in the modern world?

The meaning of the owl tattoo in the modern world is as controversial as ever. This symbol is often chosen by wise, perspicacious people with clear thinking. In addition, the drawing may indicate a bright individuality, fortitude and loneliness of the owners. The meaning of the “owl” tattoo is also manifested in protection from dark forces, since people who are interested in mysticism often make such a tattoo. The drawing may also indicate the preference for a nocturnal lifestyle.

Since the meaning of the “owl” tattoo is interpreted quite broadly, for a better understanding of the image, you need to pay attention to the following aspects:

  • Drawing size.
  • Style.
  • The meaning of the “owl” tattoo is precisely in the interpretation of the person who applied it.

The mystery and unusualness of the bird is fraught with many reasons why people choose this image for body painting.

Owl tattoo: meaning for girls and men. Interpretation of such a tattoo in the zone

An owl drawing can be made in a cartoon style, mystical or intimidating. Men prefer the image of an owl in a darker and more realistic version. Beautiful ladies often choose the image of a fabulous bird with huge eyes on a decorative background as an owl tattoo. Such a pattern on the body often not only indicates the personal preferences of the owner, but also plays the role of decoration.

In addition, tattoos must be taken very seriously also because in places of detention they are special signs that should only tell the truth about a person. For a drawing that does not correspond to the status among criminals or the personal qualities of the owner, a severe punishment follows. Also, an owl (tattoo) indicates certain character traits. The value in the zone of this image speaks of a pessimistic attitude towards everything around its bearer, to reflections on the frailty of the world, death.

That is, you can perceive an owl in different ways, and the interpretation of the symbol completely depends on the style of execution and what the owner puts into it. In any case, the owl is a meaningful and mysterious drawing.

Tattoo "Owl": meaning and symbolism

For many peoples of the world, the Owl tattoo has an extremely negative meaning. It is considered a symbol of dark forces that are activated at night. Even today, she is able to instill fear in anyone. A bird with eyes shining in the night and a terrible cry that leads a nocturnal lifestyle is a rather strange creature. Maybe that's why for most of the peoples of the world, an owl is a symbol of evil and is the most terrible sign.


The positive and negative meaning of the tattoo "Owl"

But not all nations consider this bird to be such an ominous symbol. There are those for whom it is a symbol of wisdom and is considered the best amulet. The Indians are such a people. And among the Hindus, it symbolizes high spirituality. But in other nationalities there are no such positive traits in a bird. So, the Celts consider the owl a symbol of death. And in ancient China, she personified evil, crime and death. It was even said that young owls pecked out the eyes of their own mothers. In Africa, there are still legends that owls dance at the witches' sabbath. And so on ad infinitum. Almost no nationality considered the owl a good sign and a cute creature. But modern interpretations have changed a lot and began to carry a positive meaning.

And what does the tattoo "Owl" mean?

The meaning of a tattoo is perceived precisely in the context in which it is depicted, as well as in the manner of depiction by the artist. Why is such an ambiguous symbol so often applied to their bodies by young people? They perceive it as a sign of wisdom, mystery and intimidation. By the way, most often the tattoo "Owl" can be found on the body of a person who himself leads a nocturnal lifestyle or expresses a desire to win the heart of a girl. In Russia, the owl has become a symbol of wisdom. But why is it so, if it is so scary and mysterious? The roots of this sign come from Ancient Greece, where this bird was depicted next to the goddess Athena. And she, as you know, is the keeper of wisdom. It was from here that the expression "smart owl" began to be widely used. And the image of a bird on scrolls or a stack of books became a symbol of many educational institutions of that time. It was from there that the symbol of the owl came to us as a wise and fair adviser. And therefore today the tattoo "Owl" has the most favorable meaning. It symbolizes clarity of thought and fortitude. And besides, it is a powerful amulet for the mind.


Conclusion

Tattoo "Owl" has the most direct and immediate meaning - knowledge and fortitude. But nevertheless, it is worth noting the main thing, it is considered a female symbol. Maybe that's why so often it is women who get such a tattoo. It is performed on the chest or shoulder, and not only in shades of black, but in all colors. But in general, given its ambiguous interpretation, we can say with full confidence that this tattoo does not mean anything special. Everyone who makes this beautiful and slightly mysterious picture on their body interprets it in their own way. Someone makes such a tattoo for beauty, and someone tries to show that his life is shrouded in mystery and darkness. There are those who put an owl on the body as a symbol of wisdom and rich life experience.

What is the meaning, history and meaning of an owl tattoo

In the material we will talk about tattoos with an owl and about owl tattoo meaning. We will try to understand the history of the tattoo design with an eagle owl and its possible interpretation. Also, as part of our tattoo site, you can see:

  • Photo of a tattoo with an owl
  • Sketches for an eagle owl tattoo


An owl is a nocturnal bird of prey, which from ancient times had a controversial and ambiguous reputation and symbolism among different peoples in different historical periods of mankind. Perhaps it is worth mentioning for a start its significance in the culture of Ancient Greece. The Greeks had a positive attitude towards this bird, gave it the status of a sacred animal of the goddess Athena, considered it a symbol of wisdom, science and knowledge, erudition and life experience. She was also credited with the ability to magic, because she saw at night, which at that time seemed to the Greeks from the category of super powers.

Among the Indians, the owl symbolized death, the afterlife, prophecy, wisdom, and was also considered something like a talisman - the Indians used owl feathers for headdresses, it was believed that the bird could come to the rescue in difficult times.

In Chinese culture, eagle owls had an ominous, dark and negative symbolism. The owl was associated with evil, crime, cruelty, disease, and almost all the hardships of everyday and social life of the Chinese people, and by today's standards, the owl in China was considered something akin to a terrorist threat.


Christian culture also did not expect anything good from an owl. The owl was considered a demonic creature and a “friend” of the devil, the patron of witchcraft and magic, sorcerers and witches, was associated with unbelief, death and horror, and was also associated with almost everything that contradicted the ethics and culture of Christianity and was painted in dark colors. Also, the life of an owl was associated with the life of a hermit, loneliness and wisdom.

What does a tattoo with an owl mean?

The main reasons for such an ominous, and not entirely fair reputation of an owl, were its nocturnal lifestyle, the ability to see in the dark, and the bird's heartbreaking cry. In our time, the eagle owls have lost the status of "spawn of the devil", and now have a much more positive reputation than during the Middle Ages.

The meaning of an owl tattoo is a purely personal matter.

Reasonable people with good analytical and mental abilities, cold-blooded, balanced and able to control their emotions can boast of such tattoos. People who have gone through fire and water, who have known life in all its incarnations, people with a great store of knowledge and experience.


Also, a tattoo with this nocturnal bird can characterize its owner as a secretive and mysterious person, living a nocturnal (or even hermit) life, a person interested in magic, philosophy, occult and natural sciences.

An owl in some traditions is a symbol of a talisman, so a tattoo with this bird can serve you in life as a means of warding off damage, evil spirits, and other negative misfortunes of someone else's will that is hostile to you.

Therefore, a person must clearly define what he wants to express with an owl / owl tattoo on his body, or what qualities / strengths of character to increase or improve.

An illiterate and thoughtlessly chosen tattoo will not bring anything good to its owner, and in some cases it will even act to the detriment ... therefore, "measure seven times, cut once."

I want to get an owl tattoo on my arm, tell me what it can mean

The owl, as befits a large bird of prey, has become among many nations a symbol of nocturnal, dark, sinister power. She instills fear with her eyes shining in the dark, silent approach in flight and a frightening rough voice. So it is no accident that the owl became an evil, and even terrifying, symbol among many ancient peoples, especially in China. Because of her nocturnal lifestyle, she was associated with black magic, the underworld, death and sorrow. However, among a number of other peoples, the owl also had positive symbolism.

Therefore, the general meaning of an owl tattoo today is not uniform - wisdom and fear, loneliness, higher intelligence, seal and joy.

Ancient Celtic culture called the owl a dead bird, a messenger of death. Among the Chinese, the owl also embodied all possible evil: yang - the destructive principle, crimes and death itself. Even in China, she was credited with the terrifying habit of pecking out the eyes of her mothers.

And among the Indians, for example, the meaning of an owl tattoo was only positive. She personified great wisdom and was considered a good amulet and reliable protection. In the mythology of Ancient Greece and the Roman Empire, the owl has always accompanied Athena, the goddess of learning and wisdom. She was also considered a seer (perhaps because of her ability to see in the dark) and in this context was often depicted on Greek coins. This is where all European fairy tales about the "learned owl" originate, and its modern associations with wisdom. The owl brought its positive meaning - spirituality and intellectuality to Russia.

The nocturnal bird is quite mysterious and interesting. In Christianity, this night bird has become a symbol of impurity and witchcraft, as well as spiritual blindness and unbelief. In Hinduism, the owl was chosen as a symbol of cosmic spirituality. African peoples also have a negative attitude towards owls. In Madagascar, it is believed that owls gather with witches and dance on the graves of the dead. And in India they believed that the owl accompanies the souls of dead people to the afterlife.

In Mexico, she was a symbol of night and cold. In Egypt, it was also considered an intermediary between the worlds of the living and the dead. Japanese culture, like Chinese, recognized the appearance of this foot predator as a bad sign. In modern Goths, an owl is a reflection of a restless soul.

As you can see, an owl is perceived differently, and the meaning of an owl tattoo will depend on the manner and context in which this bird is drawn. And how the bearer of the tattoo perceives it. The owl is often applied by people who are nocturnal, mysterious, intimidating and wise.

Larisa matyushkina

I have an owl.
And I am very pleased with her.
Yes, I have changed, I have become more resolute and I began to approach each case wisely.


Dasha German

The owl, as a symbol in tattoo culture, has many meanings.
Positive meanings of a tattoo: owls In the extended and general meaning, an owl in modern tattoo culture means wisdom, erudition, knowledge of something secret, the presence of a higher mind, mystical motives, a certain message, sacred amulet and protection.
Negative Meanings: Owl Tattoos In life, the owl is a nocturnal inhabitant of our world. It is this characteristic of her that causes a negative attitude towards the bird. Among the general negative meanings, communication with the other world, black magic and witchcraft, loneliness, inner evil, sadness, hermitage, coldness and denial of social norms, and a nocturnal lifestyle are especially popular.

The owl is one of the most sought after images for tattoos. Owl tattoo is suitable for both men and girls. As a rule, such a tattoo is very colorful and bright. For a tattoo, you can choose as a portrait of one owl, or supplement it with other elements and symbols.

Owl tattoo: meaning

There are several options for interpreting a tattoo in the form of an owl. Some people choose an owl as a decorative element without thinking about its meaning. However, what this bird symbolizes will pleasantly surprise you.

on the shoulder with a key

Owl tattoo means:

  1. Wisdom;
  2. Vision;
  3. Knowledge;
  4. Independence;
  5. freedom;
  6. Message;
  7. Mystic;
  8. Protection.

Due to its meaning and bright design, it becomes quite clear why the owl tattoo is so popular. The variety of this image is so great that both men and girls can easily find the best option for themselves. The fair sex is increasingly choosing fabulous owls with their cute big eyes. Guys prefer dark owls, made close to the realistic look of the bird.

In the last decade, tattoo artists have become so skillful that the image of an owl becomes a real work of art. A bird with unusual eyes deserves special attention. Instead of eyes, gems or watches are often depicted. Owls are known to be long-lived, which is why they are often associated with time. In turn, time makes it possible to accumulate more knowledge. Therefore, owls are often called smart and wise creatures. This is how the owl tattoo is interpreted in American culture. The ancient Indians turned to owls for advice and protection, believing that this creature is the protector of all knowledge on earth.

Parents prefer to make a small owlet and write the names of their children under its image. This practice occurs in both sexes.

In general, the owl was one of the key symbols in many ancient cultures such as Hindi, Egyptian, Greek, Celtic, etc. These peoples believed that the owl is a guide to the other world, which protects the dead. No wonder this bird was often referred to as the "angel of death." Many ancient inhabitants were convinced that the owl accompanies the dead souls to the next world.

Since owls hunt mainly at night, and a person rarely sees them live, this adds mystical notes to their image.

Vision, both physical and the ability to look into the human soul, is one of the main symbols of an owl tattoo. The owl has very large eyes that expand even more at night while hunting.

Before getting an owl tattoo, you need to be clear about what you want to express with this image. The design of the tattoo itself will depend on your associations.

on the elbow

on the foot

on the shoulder

On the hand

at the ankle

on the finger

all over the hand

on the bicep