Hebrew tattoos have developed a huge popularity due to them popping up on the skin of massive celebrities. However, this style has long been known for its grace and beauty. Many uplifting, smart and witty messages have been used for Hebrew tattoos, and this is the genuine reason for their fame. They are a permanent and attractive reminder of beliefs and ideas that you hold dear.
Most Hebrew tattoos feature simple script. The majority of these are done in either black, or a rich, henna-like brick brown. These can be done in very small characters, but most commonly they are done in a more grandiose fashion and are splayed across the chest, or up and down the arms or back. It is not uncommon to see proverbs such as, “God gives burdens, also shoulders,” or, “Not to have felt pain is not to have been human.” These sayings and quotations fall under the more grandiose category; however, some people may prefer to use simpler pieces and create single word characters. One example of this is the very noticeable Chai symbol. This symbol is the combination of the Hebrew letters Cheit and Yod, and simply means ‘living.’
It is also not uncommon for people to incorporate symbols such as the star of David, the hamsa (which is a bluntly rounded hand with an eye in the palm, and is said to be a symbol of protection from the evil eye), and the enneagram (a star with nine points, which is thought to represent the essence of existence). Less specific, but equally meaningful symbols may be used such as ivy — which is often an expression of determination — growing around the lettering; the script may be intertwined with the flower of life; it may be bookended by a Fleur De Lis, or even placed at the center of a ouroboros.
Whatever style you choose to use just remember, with any foreign language it is important to know what you are getting; with the delicate and often times complicated manner of the language, Hebrew tattoos are no exception. Have your words translated by someone fluent and trustworthy, and you will have a lifelong piece of style and inspiration.
