Lion tattoo designs can vary in various ways and are mainly worn by men, even though women get them occasionally. Although the Lion tattoo is not considered mainstream, it is an overall tattoo design. 

Due to the detailed work and essential shading, like all animal tattoos, these structures often represent the attributes and traits of the lion. 

The designs constantly portray the absolute lion or just the head of the lion. They may even be depicted with a crown. Lion tattoos signify:

• Strength
• Courage
• Love
• Balance
• Family
• Transformation
• Guardianship
• Wisdom
• Hope
• Power

Lion Symbolism Through History

The lion is depicted as “the king of the jungle” or “the king of the animal kingdom.” When considering the lion’s natural habitat, we can understand its solid characteristics and symbolic importance. The lion is the most feared animal that roams the planet. The lion is mighty, and some can consider over 400 pounds. The lion is brilliant and highly skilled in the animal domain. The lion has well-built attributes that earn him one of the top predators in the world.

Ancient Civilizations

The lion has been portrayed in ancient cultures, legends, literature, movies, mythology, astrology, etc. In ancient civilizations, lions were possessed by kings and royalty. The lion symbolized the power of the people of the king’s power and strength. An interesting contrast, in Roman legend, the lion is associated with love.

The lion was symbolic to the Egyptians—they often illustrated two lions with their rears to one another. These statues designate balance, which was very important to the Egyptians. They would usually place these sculptures outside of sacred structures. The Egyptians accepted harmonies, such as sunrise/sunset and east/west. Their lion statues described this all-important proportion.

Culture

The lion is also significantly extended to the Chinese. It represents good luck, guardianship, and power. The Chinese believe that the lion symbolizes the earth and sun. Leo is the 5th Zodiac sign, and people born between July 23-August 22 are deemed a Leo. People born during the period are very highly energetic and good-hearted people. Leo is somewhat timid and appreciates control, but they are very generous. The Leo also represents balance. There are tribal structures and Celtic designs, and many more.

Lion Tattoo Designs and Meanings

Power and Authority: The lion is seen as a powerful animal, portrayed as the king of the animal world. It can symbolize strength and leadership. Many different people may prefer the lion tattoo for these reasons. In addition, it can mean being fearless, as lions are seen as animals with no fear. 

Healing and Hope: This significance comes from the lion’s connection to Christianity. It is portrayed in C.S. Lewis’ personality of Aslan in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.

Wisdom: This meaning originates from Buddhist beliefs. Someone may choose to get a lion tattoo because they are in a challenging situation. It can represent hope and faith; it reminds them of that when they glance at their tattoo. An older, mature male lion can be displayed in a tattoo to represent insight and knowledge.

Courage: This definition is often thought to have come from the movie “Wizard of Oz.” The classic film portrays how the cowardly lion wanted to have courage. It can remind the wearer of the lion tattoo to be courageous in life and everything they go through.

Bravery: Even in this day and age, it remains a very symbolic design with many implications. Yet it has always been well described throughout history in the tattoo world and many different cultures. It can also symbolize protection, bravery, security, and nobility. Someone may decide to get one to suggest a brave act they did or hope to do. 

Family: You may have witnessed a few tattoos that have the male lion with their family or pride in this article. Although this can denote different things, it mainly represents the family’s protection. For example, a father may believe this tattoo shows his protective nature for his family. However, he could also choose this design to express his love and honor for his family. Since the lion is associated with royalty, you will see techniques that bear the royal crest. 

Final Thoughts

Before choosing a final design for a Lion tattoo, check out every available style and design. Make sure you select a method that you are satisfied with.