Ganesh Tattoos: Your Body as an Altar

Copyright photo by Gotch @ Harizanmai tattoo Studio. 

I think that getting a tattoo can be a powerful ritual. There is a deep level of commitment, as well as the sacrificial offering of pain-endurance involved. Done consciously, having symbolic patterns punctured into your flesh is a way of saying, "Yes. I accept and integrate this into my body and person for life." The permanant visual reminder also serves as a touch stone. Lost your devotion? Want to regain your power or meaningful quality? Look at your tattoo. Tap the body memories of it. Become it again.

Tattoos are a heretical art. Many religions expressly forbid tattoos. As far as I know, the Hindu religion as a whole does not disallow tattoos. Of course, sects will differ, and keep in mind that Hindu cultural values are rather conservative on most things. Mendhi is a beautiful example of Indian body decoration for women, but it is not the same as tattooing. Anecdotally, I have concluded that the majority of people who get body art with religious symbols are not strict followers of religious protocols. Rather, they find their own meaning and create their own rituals to access their spirituality. Even though tattoos are now commonly accepted, there is still a bit of rebelliousness and an independent streak running through most people who get them.

Do you think borrowing religious iconography from a religion you do not fully practice is disrespectful? Certainly, some of that religion's leaders and many followers would think so. But does it really matter to you what they think? It's an important ethical consideration, one that only you can truly decide.

On my wedding day, I was keenly aware of the fact that my Jewish husband's religion has some hard rules about tattoos. If you have tattoos (and I do) then you are not allowed to be buried in a Jewish cemetary. My dear (but now former) husband isn't devout, so that wasn't an issue. And my husband's adult daughter isn't devout either--she's covered in tattoos. She and I both decided to let our tattoos show that day (she was a bridesmaid.) There is so much about Judiasm that agrees with me, but being part of a religion that would not accept me as I am? Unhesitatingly, no. My devotion and intent shall not be judged by anyone but the God of my heart. And for the record, my idea of God is bigger than religion, which I see as a pathway--not the destination.

Hindu inconography is especially beautiful. Vivid. Intricate. Imbued with rich meaning. For these reasons, it's particularly well-suited for body art. And as you know, in the last couple of years there was a whirlwind of Hindi art passing through fashion and interior design. Those of you who are long-time readers of my articles on holistic business management might remember how I'm at the point that I find the plethora of buddha art to be kitschy and annoying. I have to say that I feel similarly about the glut of cheap-looking Hindi art. Yet that says more about my aesthetic--I like high-quality design. And when it's done well, I'm irresistably drawn towards East Indian design--and if there is a Ganesh somewhere in the building, I'll find myself standing in front of it. Perhaps it is drawn towards me, too? I swear Ganesh plays affectionate hide and seek games with me, reminding me that I am protected and adored by his benevolent spirit.

I've thought about getting a Ganesh tattoo. It's not a consuming thought where I'm researching and planning designs. Mostly, I notice Ganesh tattoos, hoping to find one that inspires me. Usually, they look cartoonish or it's clear that the artist was trying to make it look hip--without there being any real spiritual intention emanating from the piece. It's the same with statues. Rarely do I feel Ganesh's energy coming through the work, but when it does--wow. It's really powerful when the symbol, the design, the artist, and the medium all come together. If I ever meet the right tattoo artist, perhaps then I will get a Ganesh tattoo.

...or maybe just a little mendhi will do. In fact, I think this henna Ganesh is absolutely delightful!

close up of ganesh Originally uploaded by darcitananda.

Comments

[nirmal bihani]

i love 2 draw the tattos will u giv me som more pic &ur ph no

[Patrick]

Good work,thanks for sharing this information!!!

[Sharon Musson]

Because of your beautiful web site, I got a ganesh tattoo on my upper right arm, and I am working on another ganesh for my upper left arm. I am 68 years of age - so it is never too late to find a wonderful site like yours to bring happiness! Sharon Musson,

[Jaya Savannah]

Sharon, not just one, but TWO tattoos? You go girl! I'd love to see a photo of the finished work if you get a chance to send one. Thank you for stopping by Sacred Elephants!

[Ashwini]

I'm a Hindu myself & I love the work you've done it amazing. I'm thinking of getting one that's for the inspiration !

[Paot]

I almost have the Ganesh for me.....and am about to do the same (but only one tatoo on the base of my back) I am 52 and LOVE the feeling of HAVING the tattoo....I have three and love each one. They are are as much a part of me as my eyelashes. I find comfort in the fact that they are a part of me. They inspire me and remind me what is important in my life....a star for the goddess in all of us, a tibetan chant that sings to my soul, and my children's names in a beautiful font that reminds me that my love for them is more powerful than the sun. Ganesh, my little love is next....

[robin]

My rabbi has said that tattoos aren't "illegal" in Judaism -- historically frowned upon, yes, but not a bar to being buried in a Jewish cemetery. I've read his position multiple times from multiple sources.

[ttcaraveo@msn.com]

At 41 I just got a Ganesh tattoo on my upper right arm. Of my three tattoos this beautiful piece has the most meaning to me.

[D.Kumar]

Hi

Just thought I put my 2 cents in. For me getting a tattoo is a cool thing. I haven't got one but may be one day I will, MAY BE. But I WILL NEVER GET A GOD TATTOO.

Getting a god tattooed on your skin is a serious thing. Indian gods are just like other god who we show respect to. Indian the gods are not connected to meat and alcohol and other things that we do and eat. So for me if you get a Indian god tattoos and eat meat and drink alcohol, sweat and don't clean yourself regularly, it leads to the gods being disrespected and we don't want to disrespect any gods. That's why I think you should never get a god tattoo.

[Stef]

I agree with D. Kumar. Its like all the people with Aum tattoos that dont even know its a Hindu symbol. My cousin is a strict Catholic and got an Aum which just goes to show how bloody stupid she is. She had no idea it was a symbol for another religion. If you have a Hindu God on your skin and your not Hindu then what the hell are you playing at? Its disrespectful.

[N. Oneal]

Since om is eternal and we are all of us part of the eternity including your " bloody stupid cousin" I wouldn't think her having an om tattoo is a problem. Maybe it will change her life in some way. And as far as having tattoos of gods, the tattoos are icons used to bring you closer to God orBrahman. Not the gods themselves. Reminders to live your life in a certain way. Therefore I think if done with the proper intention not disrespectful.

[Jaya Savannah]

Interesting comments, everyone.

@Stef, I had to shake my head over your "strict Catholic" cousin who got the Aum tattoo but didn't know what it means. A lot of people put little or no thought and research into their tattoos. I can't relate with that! But at least she ended up with a positive symbol. Maybe it will inspire her to read and learn more.

@N. Oneal, I like your comment. I see it similarly in that intention is key (along with some social respect for other cultures.)

Ganesh is the friendly gate keeper of the Muladhara (first chakra.) Not only is he the first god on the Hindu path, but he seems to reach out and make himself known. Also, of all the Hindu gods, Ganesh seems very forgiving of mistakes and appreciative of all sincere gestures.

[harsha]

I totally Agree with kumar.Aspecially the first Ganesha Tatoo on the back its Disgusting.Its an abuse to our beloved God not only this I have see people having Hindu gods tatoos on legs.There is no problem In having Gods tatoos But in Right place.

[Jaya Savannah]

harsha, you bring up a good sub-topic: placement, or as you say, "Right" place. I've also seen god (Hindu, but also a lot of Christian) tattoos on calves and even thighs. Something about putting it so low on the body seems inappropriate to me. Religious tattoos seem better located near the heart and above other tattoos on the body. The upper back and arms seem better to me. What do you think?

[Fred Idiaquez]

Devoted tattoos - in correct places is correct and understandable - to indicate respect for the symbols and gods, in which they represent. tattoos are expressions of faith and love brought forth many people and devoties. god judges the heart,soul,and intentions - aswell as actions in maya-devoted tattoos should be encouraged. as a positive never a negative.

[jenn]

I just got a ganesh tattoo on my inner ankle. For me it is where I wanted it, on my body and in a place I can always see it. However, those in India do not agree (where I got the tattoo and have been living for the past four months). I understand it is a high God for hindus, however, i feel it is my body and my dedication to the God to have Ganesh permanently on me and with me at all times, where I can see it. Hopefully I will come across someone who can understand that!!!! Even when I am meditating and praying, Ganesh is staring at me. Just how I wanted it to be.

[Taj]

Jenn, I have a Ganesh on my inner ankle too! I love his placement for the same reasons, however I have encountered some (not all) people who also disagree. I wish there was some way to make them understand why I put him there and that I do hold great respect for him ... :(

[Isab Singh]

I recently got a Ganesh tattoo on my upper/ outer thigh. I was not 100% sure of the placement but I am happy & made peace w/the placement. I grew up with a father who is a Hindu. Although he too was not happy about the tat & the placement he understands why I was compelled to get it. Ganesha clears the path leading to Wisdom, Intellect, and Inner Peace. He is the son of Shiva and Parvati, Shree Ganesh, is the God of Good Luck and Auspiciousness and is the Dispeller of problems and obstacles. I made my peace with whom I needed to make it!!!

[Jay]

I would love some feedback as to where to get my Ganesh tattoo as i am undecided between either the chest or upper back. I want it to be high up and thought of chest as will be close to heart and see it everyday but then I am also keen on idea of having it upper back

Any thoughts?

[Shubhendra Swarup]

Hi,

I have decided what ganesh tattoo I want and it will be the first one I get.

I see quite a few of you already have a ganesh tattoo and would find it reall useful if you could tell me what artist and studio you could yours from.

I would prefer to go on a recommendation rather than google !