Tattoo Meanings

The Dove

The dove embodies a variety of positive meanings.

Enduring Love. Because doves mate with one partner for the duration of their lives and also take care of their young together, they represent steadfast love and devotion. The bond between the mated pair is a lifelong, enduring, and faithful partnership.

Mythological Significance. The dove is also mentioned in Greek and Roman mythology: the Greek goddess Aphrodite, the goddess of love and fertility, was said to ride in a chariot borne by doves. Her seven daughters (known as the Pleiades) are referred to as a flock of doves in Greek mythology. In Aztec mythology, the dove represents Xochiquetzal, the goddess of love, and is believed to be the mother of all humanity. The dove also has symbolic associations for Native Americans: Some tribes believed that the spirits of the dead are transformed into doves. Some American Indians may use the dove tattoo to represent this association.

Peace and Harmony. Since early Christianity, the dove holding an olive branch in its beak has represented a symbol of peace. Ironically, the image of a dove holding a grenade has become quite popular as well.

Holy Spirit. The dove is commonly associated with Jesus and Christianity. Many examples of Christian art depict Jesus accompanied by a flock of doves. Doves are mentioned often in the Bible, for example in the story of Noah's Ark. Before the great flood, God ordered Noah to build a ark for him and his family and to gather all the animals in pairs, one male and one female. God then flooded the earth and everything was destroyed. After several weeks at sea, Noah sent out a dove and a raven to look for signs of land. When the dove returned with an olive branch in its beak, this was a sign that life would start over.

The Messenger. There are many stories about the dove carrying messages, sometimes messages from God, sometimes love letters. The dove is commonly interpreted as a portent of love, victory, peace, or God's will.

New Beginning. As in Noah's story, the dove can represent a new beginning or a fresh start, and this is the meaning attributed to many dove tattoos. Many of us would love to forget the past and start over: The dove tattoo can be used to represent this possibility.

Victory or Success. The olive branch mentioned above, which is often seen in the dove's talons, can also represent victory or success. Some get this tattoo to represent success in a relationship, but it can also refer to victory in other aspects of one's life.

Family. The same quality of faithful, steadfast love the dove gives to its mate can extend to its family. As mentioned above, the male and female dove take care of their young together. If you are looking for a tattoo that represents your commitment to your family and children, doves are the perfect choice.

Dove Symbolism
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Love
Hope
Faith
Truth
Peace
Trust
Purity
Guidance
Calmness
Protection
Inspiration
Spirituality
Redemption
Motherhood
Transcendence
Divine Messages

(Taken from that hub website place thingy)