The classic heart and dagger tattoo, synonymous with traditional style tattooing, is a design with deep and varied meanings. In this article we look to explore the age old allure of the heart and dagger design, tracing it back to its roots in early Christian artwork while examining its use in modern day tattooing.
Many wonder when looking upon this symbol, what does the heart and dagger tattoo mean? The heart and dagger tattoo possesses two strong pieces of juxtaposed imagery which perhaps is what has made it such a powerful long lasting symbol.
When dissecting the meaning behind the imagery we find that the heart serves to represent love, the seat of our emotions, a life source and a person’s inner most desires. The traditional dagger symbol typically signifies ruthlessness, death, sacrifice or betrayal.
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The dagger itself is an ideal metaphor to use in the representation of betrayal, as daggers were the weapon of choice for assassins long ago. Due to the knife’s small size and ability to be easily concealed, daggers gained in popularity amongst killers. The manner in which the dagger was used to kill the victim only added to the sense of cutthroat brutality, hence why we see its appearance in the heart and dagger tattoos intended to display a sense of betrayal.
Though used often in Catholic iconography, outside of Christianity the heart and dagger can also represent the Voodoo spirit Erzulie Dantor, a bisexual female goddess believed to protect women, children and those society has cast away. Her wrath is feared within practitioners of Haitian Voodoo, as she is said to inflict revenge upon any who cause harm to those she watches over.
The symbol of the dagger also has uses within occult circles where it is referred to as an athame. The dagger is used in ritual settings to “cut cords” from another person, or direct psychic energy.
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The dagger represents the male energy in a ritual, being used to draw the protective circle and to call upon the elemental guardians. For those interested in a more esoteric tattoo, consider the depiction of the three of swords from the Rider Waite tarot deck.
The symbol we know in tattooing as the “heart and dagger” traces its origins back to early Christianity emerging in various artwork and designs. This symbol has traditionally been called the “Immaculate, or Sacred Heart of Mary” and has been used to depict Mary’s divine love and beauty, as well as her suffering and earthly imperfections.
In religious symbolism the dagger through the heart depictingt the Catholic Sacred Heart of Mary is viewed as the embodiment of Mary’s pain at the crucifixion of her son Jesus.
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And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary His mother, Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed-- and a sword will pierce even your own soul-- to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.
When considering the design for your heart dagger tattoo, you might want to display it in a classic traditional style design. The tattoo gained its momentum and popularity within the style of traditional tattooing and has been depicted in endless different variations within the style.
Many of these designs featuring a heart with a knife through it can be traced back all the way back to the early 1900’s. Designs showcasing hearts with daggers have been a classic staple of traditional style tattooing, often associated with tattoo legend Sailor Jerry and depicted in traditional tattoo flash.
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When the heart and dagger is done as a traditional style, the colors and lines appears vivid and bold, the perfect visual aesthetic to compliment the power of this symbol. Your best bet is to search for a quality artist who specializes in traditional style work to help bring your vision to life successfully.
If you are looking for a tattoo that is more modern in design and approach, you can find a wide array of styles and variations for the dagger through the heart design.
One popular choice is the slightly altered heart with swords tattoo known as the “3 of Hearts”, which stems from the esoteric symbolism such as those seen in the Rider Waite tarot card deck. Instead of using a traditional style dagger, the design depicts three swords piercing through the heart.
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Although the heart with swords symbol is not a new design, there has been a modern resurgence in tattooing of spiritual and occult related symbols showcased in various manners. In Tarot the three of swords card can represent heartbreak, emotional pain, forgiveness, optimism and the eventual release of pain.
If you are looking for a different approach for your heart with daggers tattoo, consider trying it in a style you love, or with a personalized design. Hearts with knives tattoos work excellent as all black designs if you’re not a big fan of color. There are no limitations when it comes to your intended design. When conceptualizing the tattoo, feel free to add any elements that you think would add to the personal meaning or visual aesthetic.
The most important first step in deciding on any tattoo design is to consult an experienced artist. Finding an artist or shop that specializes in your preferred style will greatly assist you in ensuring your new piece comes out perfect. Whether you prefer a more “old school” traditional style tattoo, or you’re looking for a more modern and contemporary piece, we’ve got you covered!
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A dagger is the world’s oldest personal weapon. It both protects and provides and creates a level of intimacy you don’t find with other weapons such as the gun or bow.
It’s both a tremendously vital old-school tattoo symbol, yet also one that connects with contemporary mainstream tattoo collectors looking for an image-laden with deep symbolic meaning.
The following story details some of the important nuances that a dagger tattoo may possess and can help you and your tattoo artist determine the correct piece for you.
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Dagger tattoo art is often used to symbolize fighting, danger, fear, and ferocity because the real thing is used in close hand-to-hand combat.
There’s no distance you can put between yourself and what’s coming up against your blade, which also makes for an arresting tattoo design concept, especially when paired with other meaningful concepts.
The dagger is also a popular tattoo when combined with other symbols, so its meaning can often vary into subtle variations, particularly in old-school body art depictions.
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A serpent wrapped around a dagger once signified the presence of Mercury, god of travel and communication, as well as the protector of thieves and tricksters, while it’s also linked to health and medicine in Greek mythology.
A dagger stabbed through an animal head is generally a tattoo associated with overcoming a challenge, with the type of beast used associated with the challenge of impediment that you faced.
Perhaps you put your safety and wellbeing on the line every day and aren’t afraid to risk security for the sake of unknown valor.
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From panthers to wolves, snakes to gorillas, the dramatic effect that is created with these gruesome designs is undeniable. Whether in color or black and gray, these fierce and unique designs are sure to turn heads wherever they go for years to come.
The snake and dagger tattoo symbol carries multiple meanings, and its tattoo likeness will no doubt elicit equal parts fear and awe from those who glimpse upon it.
The blade and snake tattoo are deployed together by the tattoo enthusiast to expand on the concept of balance between good and evil, or right and wrong.
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The snake tattoo has long gotten a bad rep, but in fact, often emulates sacred spiritual insights relating to the serpent. No man is entirely good or bad, and sometimes a snake is needed in the garden to shake things up from time to time.
Just as the snake is the earthly embodiment of the eternal and mystical masculine, the dagger represents the dangers that may lie ahead, and the courage needed to overcome the many faces of adversity.
When all is said and done, the serpent and dagger tattoo is more than just a symbol of good vs. evil, but the necessary balance one must maintain between the two.
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Long a favorite in American old-school tattoos, skulls are powerful symbols of our mortality and limited time on earth, and they’re perfect additions to these designs.
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