Asbury Park Press

Cross designs for tattoos go back a very long time. The cross obviously symbolizes particular religious beliefs but there are also numerous other types and meanings. Most people think of a religious connotation when then they consider a cross. Nearly all Christian denominations and religions depend on the cross as a result of the crucifixion of Christ. The cross has become synonymous with Christianity. If you want this meaning to be portrayed in the design of your cross tattoo, you need to determine if it will be with Jesus or if it will just the cross alone. There are numerous styles, including but not limited to, modern, three dimensional, and rugged.  All Celtic crosses are somewhat similar in design but usually have a big circle connecting the arms of the cross. It is thought that in Ireland Saint Patrick introduced this cross as a form of paganism to Christianity. While converting the pagans to Christianity Saint Patrick wanted to put the sun symbol in the middle of the cross. Celtic crosses are usually also adorned with intricate or scroll work. This detail makes for a great design for a cross. As a result of this scroll work it is sometimes referred to as a design for a tribal tattoo. Another popular design for a cross tattoo is the Maltese cross. It is a symbol of courage and strength. The Maltese cross was used by the Knights during the first crusade. It is also a national symbol of Malta. The Maltese cross has 4 equal arms with the outside edges of the arms larger and then they narrow down to the center of the cross. Many times the outer edges of the cross will dip down into the cross’s center which creates 8 points around the cross. Supposedly these represent the 8 points of courage. Through Europe, a variation of this design has been used. In Germany it was known as the Iron Cross and had been used as a military symbol for decades. In the US it is been used by car enthusiasts and bikers alike. It has also been sometimes associated with aficionados of German automobiles. The symbol also had a surfer in the center of it in the 1960s and was colloquially referred to as a surfers cross that was typified by Big Daddy Roth. There are numerous choices of crosses for you to choose from including Religious, Maltese, and Celtic.

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