Compass tattoo png

Every Tattoo Has A Story – What Does a Compass Tattoo Mean?

In the 15th century, time measuring instruments became popular, as it can often be seen on canvases of the Old Masters.

The compass symbolized reasonableness, because its arrow always points strictly to the north, and neither the weather nor any other external processes affect its being straight and clear – just as the reason and logic should be.

Prior to the compass, the people were orientating themselves only with the help of sun and the moon, which later explains how the sun compass was inspired.

Throughout history, north has symbolized progress and advancement (whereas south symbolizes things going wrong).

Apart from this meaning, the compass also symbolizes:

The Symbol Of The Compass Rose

That said, the directions represent: infinite possibility, the present, the past, and the future.

For those adding a compass rose to their tattoo, it usually means that they want it to symbolize the guidance to their true north and to navigate the journey unfolding before them.

The compass rose represents spiritual direction, awakening and discovery.

The Story of the Four Directions

The four directions – north, east, west and south – have had a long standing and important role in the folklore around the world.

In Chinese Feng Shui, each direction correlates to the Chinese zodiac animals:

• North (rat) – adaptability, charm, creativity, sociability, wit.

• East (rabbit) – trust, sincerity, love, compassion.

• South (horse) – physical strength, health, adventure, loyalty.

• West (rooster) – confidence, business, energy, persistence.

In ancient Celtic symbolism and tradition, the cardinal directions were acknowledged in several ceremonies and festivals. Here is a brief outline of these directional representations:

• East – air, communication, new beginnings, new growth

• South – fire, energy, passion, creativity

• West – water, emotion, psyche, movement

• North – earth, home, security, fertility

Native Americans have their own meanings of cardinal directions that you can use in your Native American inspired tattoo.  The Lakota, for example hold to the following guideline:

• North – wisdom/thought

• East – salvation/spirit

• South – beginnings/purity

• West – conclusions/fullness

Not All Who Wander Are Lost

This well known phrase is the second line of J.R.R. Tolkien’s poem “The Riddle of Strider” from The Fellowship of the Ring.

So, here is the full quote:

All that is gold does not glitter;
Not all who wander are lost.
The old that is strong does not wither.
Deep roots are not reached by the frost.

In Tolkien’s epic fantasy works is the wandering souls are an important element, even though he does not always celebrate them. Indeed, he often warns against the danger of wandering far from guidance.

When one wanders, one should still be keen enough to know when to continue wandering in a particular direction or when one’s fate is in jeopardy. That may come through the assistance of maps, compasses and guides.

But one big takeaway from this lyric not all who wander are lost is the concept accepting even what is deviant from current societal norms

The perception of (ab)normal behaviors continue to change over time (e.g. living together before marriage, smoking in public, gender roles, etc.).

When we meet someone, who seems to be aimlessly drifting, we should consider they are on a personal quest to find their real self.

One other way to look at this is that those who are willing to face the adventure, to wander off the hardened road, have the the faith to follow one’s heart (true north).

Best Compass Tattoo Placements

Compass tattoo design, depending if it’s a single element, or a part of a big elaborate navy scene, can be inked on different body parts.

Many will use compass in combination with maps or anchors and that is when the inner forearm, shoulder or a calf is a great placement to have enough room for all the intricate details. This is where many styles can come in, from realism (for the maps) all the way to geometric style for a more abstract design.

Smaller, simplistic compass tattoo designs fit beautifully on the wrists, triceps and chest.

If you are looking just for the compass on a vintage map, you can also go for the chest, or upper back.

To help you with your research for your next tattoo design, we went on a hunt through Instagram to find the best compass tattoo ideas.

Take a look below to check them out all:

Are you looking for a custom compass tattoo design? We got you.

Our expert tattoo artists will provide a quick initial draft to get you going.
Happy inking ❤

Milena has decided to start an organization that will create a safe environment for everybody to get their first, second or third tattoo and to encourage young people to transform their ideas into tattoos safely, with talent and vision.

You can find her writing about tattoos on Quora or updating our Pinterest profile with awesome tattoo ideas!

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