If you like to get a raven tattoo, please don’t ignore the symbolic meanings and legendary stories associated with the bird. The fact that the bird lives on carrion, raven is often associated with the dead and considered as a link between life and death. Raven has appeared in the mythology of many cultures, such as Chinese, Greek, Celtic, etc. and is often depicted in many of the literature, modern novels, poems. In ancient western cultures, raven was often associated with a God of their time. In Greek and Roman mythology, raven was the messengers of Apollo in the mortal world, a god of music, truth and prophecy, the sun and light. For the Germanic peoples, ravens were often associated with Odin, a widely attested god of healing, death, royalty, the gallows, knowledge. In Celtic mythology, ravens were associated with the Welsh god Bran the Blessed (the brother of Branwen), whose name translates to raven.

Ravens also appear in Native American legends. It was considered as a hero to many tribes. In Native American mythology, raven created the earth by a raven that dropping stones into the sea. It was considered as a symbol of creation. In China, it’s a bad omen and something imminent would happens when a raven flies on your head or creaks around your home in the morning.

Many people get confused between raven tattoos and hawk or eagle tattoos. Ravens are not as strong as hawks or eagles in their hind limbs. The flat bill of the raven is one of the major difference from the hooked bill of the hawk or eagle. So don’t expect to represent muscular power with raven tattoos.

Raven is considered to be the moderator between death and life. Raven is often associated with dream. When someone sees a raven in the dream, it’s often considered misfortune or something special would happen. On the other hand, it’s good for you to take advantage of the forecast and get prepared for the incoming event.

A lot of raven tattoos are inked on the sleeves or back. Almost all of them are portrayed in black theme, just like a real raven if it is in realistic style.

Via: cuded.com