Dove Tattoos

When deciding on a new tattoo, there are so many possibilities and options available, it can become overwhelming. One of the most beautiful and meaningful designs that people choose to have are dove tattoos. These beautiful winged creatures have many symbolic meanings that include religious beliefs and everlasting love.

When a dove returned to Noah with an olive branch to tell him that the flood waters had ceased and the Great Flood of God’s Judgment was over, a dove became a symbol of hope. It later became the universal symbol of peace as well. Doves are also know as being Christian symbols and is the typical symbol of the Holy Ghost. God sent his spirit in the form of a dove to gather mankind into his church. The meanings of the doves are as follows:

Red Dove – because Christ redeemed man with his blood
Speckled Dove – symbolizes the diversity of the twelve prophets
White Dove – is a symbol of innocence, gentleness and peace

To those that believe in an afterlife, a dove tattoo can be symbolic of a soul freed from its physical form and soaring on to its everlasting destiny.

Doves are also known as symbols of love and purity.

A pair of doves symbolizes everlasting love, prosperity, fidelity and a happy home. This is why many couples choose to have doves released at their weddings. Males and females also mate for life which makes this even more appropriate for a newly married couple.

So not only being a beautiful design, dove tattoos can have a very symbolic meaning to the person that chooses to have one. To each person, the symbolism can be quite different and their meanings can include the following:

Universal Peace
Hope
Innocence
Gentleness
Everlasting Love
Purity
Prosperity
Christian symbol for the Holy Ghost and the Holy Spirit
A releasing of the soul after death
The Chinese regard the dove as a symbol for a long life

These designs can be as detailed and colorful as you desire.

Many people add flowers, an olive branch, hearts, words, a peace sign, a cross or even the sky to their dove tattoo. However you choose to have your artwork done, and whatever meaning that this exquisite bird has for you, this will be a tattoo that you will enjoy forever.