If you’re looking for a symbol of love, and not interested in something more all encompassing than a heart, you may want to consider an agape tattoo. The symbolism behind the agape tattoo can be a powerful representation of personal beliefs.
The agape symbol originates in Greek times, as a symbol of unconditional love and protection. It can be depicted with a few different symbols based on your inclinations.
This article explores the history and symbolism of the agape tattoo, and the different forms it can take.
What is the History of Agape Tattoos?
The history of the word ‘Agape’ as a tattoo is a bit difficult to trace, but the history of the word itself is well known.
Agape is a word from the Greek language, signifying total, unconditional love.
With the emergence of Christianity, the word came to signify the relationship between man and God.
There’s no record of when it became a part of tattoos, but the word in either its original Greek form or in the Anglicized form has become a representation of a fundamental Christian tenet.
When tattoos became more mainstream, the word Agape also became part of the tattoo culture.
In recent times, some people have abbreviated the word Agape into the symbol that later became the Christian Fish, adapted from the first Greek letter of the word.
What is the Symbolism of Agape Tattoos?
The word Agape means ‘Unconditional Love’. It is believed to symbolize the relationship between God and man.
The word itself symbolizes all the different forms of love: Parental, Brotherly, Familial, and Desire.
It also symbolizes a love that puts others before themselves. A self-sacrificing love.
It symbolizes a love that is pure and giving.
What Meaning do Agape Tattoos Carry?
The meaning of Agape tattoos varies from person to person, but the common element is some form of powerful love and a deep connection to another, or to their faith.
For some individuals the Agape tattoo represents their personal connection to God.
– The Agape tattoo in this case may represent their experiences of a Divine Love.
– The meaning of the tattoo may be that the person feels very deeply connected to God.
– In some cases, it may represent a Divine Love that is reciprocated in love and faith from the person.
– It may also represent a memory of an experience that they feel represents such love.
– It can represent a belief in unconditional love without end.
– It may also represent a deep connection to one’s personal faith.
Agape tattoos can also represent a personal goal, to demonstrate Agape in one’s own life, through actions.
– It may mean the person strives to offer love and kindness to others in their lives.
– It can also represent a desire to be closer to God through acts of giving.
– It may represent a memorial of a personal sacrifice made for someone else, and the willingness to live with that action and its consequences.
– Agape tattoos can also represent a feeling of attachment or deep love to someone or something.
– It can also symbolize a love of family and friends, an enduring love that can’t be changed.
Just as Agape represents a love that is willing to sacrifice for others, so an Agape tattoo can represent a personal connection to some form of sacrifice.
– It may mean that the person has something that they are willing to sacrifice themselves for – a person or an ideal that they love enough to give everything for.
– It may also represent a memorial for someone who has given some form of sacrifice for the person in question.
– It can represent a loved one who has made a personal sacrifice for the person who carries the tattoo.
Where are Agape Tattoos Usually Placed?
Agape tattoos are generally small enough to go anywhere.
The wrist and forearm are the most popular places for agape tattoos, in both their Greek and English letter forms.
The upper arm is a less common choice, but works for larger versions of the agape.
Along the shoulder blade is also a popular location.
Agape tattoos can also be found on the back of the neck, across the side of the foot, or along the rib cage.
Miniature agape tattoos can also be found on the ankle or sometimes on a finger, though these are rarer locations for an agape tattoo.
Styles and Characteristics of Agape Tattoos:
There are three major different styles of agape tattoos.
– The word ‘Agape’ written in Greek letters.
– The word ‘Agape’ written in English style letters.
– The symbol which is commonly called ‘The Christian Fish’, which was originally adapted from the Greek ‘A’ shape.
These representations can come with other characteristics, such as:
– The English Letter version of Agape can be written in cursive, or calligraphy script. It can also be written in several different fonts.
– The Greek letter versions can also be done in different font types, with different styles to the letters.
– The word itself can be drawn in different colors. It’s usually done in black ink, but not always.
– It can also be drawn with a heart attached to the end of the word.
– Sometimes it is drawn with representations of leaves or flowers decorating the word.
– In reference to its connection to Christianity, it is sometimes done with a cross coming off one of the letters.
– The words are sometimes placed on a background, like clouds
– The word can also form an integral part of another design, like an arrow or clouds.
Conclusion
No matter what your connection to Agape and it’s deepest meanings, this is a tattoo that can be adapted to whatever form you want it to be in, and whatever surrounding designs. If you’re looking for a tattoo to represent a deep connection to faith and family, or as a memorial of a sacrifice, then the Agape tattoo is an excellent choice for you.
