One of my most engaging assignments in the class I teach on propaganda and truth is for students to find and discuss near-identical symbols that express contradictory messages—like the spiritual Swastika vs. the Hakenkreuz (or Nazi hooked cross). Cultural spins on similar visual icons abound, and understanding their respective meanings is critical. An elegantly authored and designed new book, Spiritual Tattoo Symbols: A Directory of Sacred Symbols and Their Meanings (Greenfinch) by Alison Davies, gathers some of the most popular and lesser-known signs from around the world in a comprehensive and accessible guide. Looking at each symbol’s history and origins, it unveils the cultural and spiritual significance, alongside any folklore, and showcases different tattoo styles for those seeking inspiration, or just a fresh approach to a traditional design.
The taxonomy Davies presents is an essential directory for designers, whether or not they have tattoos or are planning on branding their bodies with them. For example, the section on the “Cross” reveals its various origins (Greek, Roman, Egyptian, Christian) and the numerous adopted styles that define it with alternative meanings, including faith, hope, strength, guidance and resurrection. When using any of these empowering forms, it is important that designers understand the nuanced distinctions between them. The reader will assume they know what certain forms represent, only to find that something as menacing as the Eye of Providence is actually more divine than it is satanic.
Symbolic literacy is as essential to have as any visual understanding. For Christmas, a holiday drowning in symbolism, the book is the perfect gift for the those of us for whom a misappropriated image could be spiritually—and financially—costly.
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