The proliferation of cross tattoo designs

represents the diversity of meaning the cross symbol has come to represent.

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The Judeo-Christian cross is perhaps one of the most universally recognized and accepted symbols in the world. However, the cross symbol itself dates back to ancient times, pre-dating Jesus Christ by thousands of years.

Cross tattoos have long been sought as affirmation of religious affiliation, but many secular designs exist as well.

Long before its Christian roots, the cross was viewed as a sacred symbol. As time went on, and as history documents, the symbol of the cross occurs in both ancient and modern tattooing.
In fact, the symbol of the cross has been used by many of the world's religions. And although it has been modified somewhat over time depending on its significance and use, many of its elements have remained the same. The cross symbol appeared even before the written word, and it has even been used as an astrological and a mathematical sign.

Nearly all cross tattoos feature these characteristics, including a horizontal and a vertical line that intersect

. And regardless of the cross' origin, this point of intersection often represents a place of balance or a meeting of the physical and the spiritual realms.

Of course, the recognized religious symbolism of cross tattoos is also a major contributor to their popularity. In the past 200 years, these tattoos have been widely used by sailors, merchant seamen, military personnel, and ethnic communities. In more recent times, cross tattoos are inked on both men and women, young and old, as the symbol itself has gained a certain social acceptance, even when used as a tattoo.

A myriad of cross styles are often requested as tattoos. Among the more popular are the Roman Cross, the Greek Cross, the Maltese Cross, the Anchor Cross, the Celtic Cross, the Latin Cross, the Tau Cross, and the traditional Crucifix. The sheer number of choices is a major reason so many variations exist.

They type of cross chosen for a tattoo design often dictates its design elements. Celtic crosses or those tribal in nature are often solid black; those that are traditional or Roman in design can be very intricate and very colorful.

So whether religious or secular in nature, cross tattoo designs continue to be requested in venues everyday - a trend that is sure to grow as more and more young men and women discover their significance and artistic value.

By: Adam Hefner