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The swallow tattoo was a symbol used historically by sailors to show off their sailing experience. It is also said that if the sailor drowns, the swallows will carry his soul to heaven. Today, the symbol of the swallow can mean many different things.
What bird do sailors tattoo?
swallow
“The swallow, as well as bluebirds and sparrows, has always had a symbolic meaning for sailors because these birds were usually the first sign that land was near (before modern navigation technology). A swallow tattoo for a sailor reflected his hope of coming home safely,” said FreeTattoo, an international ink blog.
What does a bluebird tattoo signify?
The meaning of the bluebird tattoo revolves around happiness. This symbol goes back thousands of years and depending on the culture, but the theme is pretty uniform in that the bluebird represents happiness. If you happen to be going through hard times, you can look to your bluebird tattoo as an omen of happiness.
What tattoos do sailors get?
ANCHOR TATTOOS At sea, the anchor is the most secure object in a sailor’s life, making it the perfect representation of stability. This is why you’ll often see anchor tattoos emblazoned with “Mom” or the name of a sailor’s sweetheart (the people who keep them grounded).
Why did sailors get anchor tattoos?
The meaning behind the anchor derives from a sailor’s desire for stability at sea. Their anchor tattoo offered sailors the hope of returning home. The anchor symbol was not always so optimistic, however. When a ship or sailor is lost, the ‘sailor grave’ tattoo might be used to commemorate them.
What does a bluebird represent spiritually?
The bluebird is a symbol of hope, love, and renewal and is also a part of many Native American legends. It symbolizes the essence of life and beauty. Dreaming of bluebirds often represents happiness, joy, fulfillment, hope, prosperity, and good luck.
Why did sailors get mermaid tattoos?
A good luck charm and reminder of the dangers of the sea. Mermaids were said to lure sailors to their doom with their beauty and enchanting songs. This was a reminder that no matter how much sailors loved the sea it could be fickle and dangerous. A souvenir tattoo for a sailor who had been to Hawaii.
What does a sailors Grave tattoo mean?
When a ship or sailor is lost, the ‘sailor grave’ tattoo might be used to commemorate them. The design features an anchor, a life preserver, an eagle, and a sinking ship, all of which represent those lost as sea and the dangers of living a sailor’s life.
What does a Bluebird mean to a sailor?
Bluebirds represent good luck for sailors. After 10,000 miles at sea, he may have a tattoo on one side of his chest, and another at 20,000 miles of safe returns. In the Valentine myth, the Bluebird character symbolizes happy love and a “man of laughter.”
Why is the Bluebird a symbol of happiness?
In mythology, the bluebird is the universally acknowledged sign of happiness, prosperity, good health, and the arrival of spring. The beautiful blue of its plumage is associated with the sky and eternal happiness. Unlike the swallow, it does not have a ‘dark’ side.
What does a pair of bluebirds together mean?
A pair of bluebirds together is a sign of the well-travelled sailor. In mythology, the bluebird is the universally acknowledged sign of happiness, prosperity, good health, and the arrival of spring. The beautiful blue of its plumage is associated with the sky and eternal happiness.
When do you put a Bluebird on your chest?
When he has clocked 20,000 nautical miles, the sailor may apply the bird’s mate to on the other side of his chest. A pair of bluebirds together is a sign of the well-travelled sailor.