Owl Tattoo Ideas

Owls are nocturnal creatures revered by ancient civilizations as keepers of secret knowledge and wisdom. Because they are nocturnal, some cultures believe owls have solemn ties to death and the afterlife. So many owl tattoos have a deep symbolism related to the preternatural world.

Owl Tattoos Meaning And Symbolism

Owls are sometimes seen as guardians of wisdom and secret knowledge. But they are also believed to be harbingers of doom by some cultures. Here are some other meanings often associated with an owl tattoo.

• Wisdom – Owls are extremely intelligent creatures. This intelligence is why they’re often used as symbols of knowledge, wisdom, and intuition.
• Vigilance – Because of their stillness, owls are often seen as symbols of vigilance and attentiveness.
• Guardians – Owl tattoos can represent guardianship or be symbols of protection.
• Bad luck – Owls are also believed to be bad luck by some African cultures, in South America and some parts of the southern United States.
• Death – Owls are also believed by some to be harbingers of doom. Think about it: They look like they’ve seen something they shouldn’t have. Something otherworldly!
• Soul Guides – In Egypt, owls are believed to be soul guides. They help the dead find their way in the next life. This symbolism is from the owl’s ability to see in the dark.

Owls have a deep connection to both the afterlife and the natural world. So they can be extremely meaningful tattoo designs. Talk to your tattoo artist about some of the different ways you can bring a custom owl tattoo design to life!