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by: JamesBeckett
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If you like to go into tattoo parlors just to browse the patterns like I do, it's impossible not to notice the prevalence of tattoo designs that involve a Chinese dragon. It's easy to think it's just because they are pretty. But if you looked deeper you would learn that these images date into ancient history in China and its culture and that the dragon is a powerful image to that ancient world.

It seems odd to us because we think of dragons as toys for children or as part of stories for kids like Harry Potter or the Knights of the Round Table. But to the people of China, the dragon is one of the most meaningful and mystical images they have and the variety of dragons and the roles they play in Chinese spirituality are really amazing.

You wonder why so many people love to pick a Chinese dragon design for their tattoo but it may have to do with a desire to connect with a strong cultural myth since our culture isn't big on that kind of thing. That's probably why western people are so fascinated with eastern mystical images and even take part in our own way by connecting to it with a Chinese dragon tattoo. And because there is so much to learn and then to be able to tell others about the centuries old traditions and history of this eastern religious icon, it makes for wonderful stories when people ask you about the beautiful dragon tattoo you are wearing.

Interestingly enough, while in our culture dragons are generally enemies for our wizards and knights to slay, in Chinese culture, the opposite is true. In that society, dragons are the protectors of children and those in need of a strong spiritual guardian similarly to how we see guardian angels in our culture. The role of the dragon in Chinese history goes as far back as the very first emperor or China, Huang Di. It is said that when he passed away, he actually became a dragon himself and flew into the heavens to become part of Chinese spiritual life forever. So it's easy to see why the dragon has become so special to the Chinese people and that they love to celebrate that image in many ways in their art and festivals.

When you start shopping for a Chinese dragon tattoo, you are going to find a lot of different dragons to pick from. Within the culture of china, different dragons have different jobs. Fro example, horned dragons are symbols of great power. There is a dragon from heaven whose job it to protect you and your family but then there is a spiritual dragon who controls rain and other aspects of weather. The yellow dragon is a wonderful symbol of wisdom and learning and there are many more in Chinese culture to embody other great values we like to glorify in tattoos. So just about any ethic or moral from peace to love to diversity can probably be illustrated with a beautiful Chinese dragon tattoo.

As often happens when a creature takes on strong mythical imagery, Chinese dragons represent the spiritual power behind the elements and changes in weather which are often interpreted as messages from the gods. The association between Chinese dragons and water is particularly strong as they are reputed to have control over the oceans and rivers as well as over waterfalls and water spouts which are thought of as dragons rising from their sleep.

You can see that you will have no trouble getting conversations going about your Chinese dragon tattoo and you will get plenty of compliments on your tat because these patterns are so often elegant, classy and beautiful. When you browse the tattoo parlors, you will notice that there are dozens of Chinese dragon patterns in every imaginable situation and position. So you could chose a benevolent dragon enjoying a festival with the people, an angry dragon snarling at an enemy, a playful dragon crouched and ready or a sleeping dragon blessing us with his peace. Whatever design you pick, the chances are it will be a tat that has a special personality of its own and not one you will see duplicated very often if ever.

Because the dragon tattoo is so artistic, expressive and classy, many people love to make this tattoo the one to have a place of honor such as the upper chest, across the back or the arm. A large Chinese dragon tattoo can quietly communicate power and strength which is why it is a very popular tattoo for men. But you can also find beautiful dragon tattoos for the ladies that even become delightful fashion statements because they incorporate so well with clothing and jewelry. The many kinds of designs, the wonderful colors and the many deeper meanings that dragons bring with them is one of the reasons that the Chinese dragon is one of the most popular tattoo designs available.

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With so many designs to choose from it can be a bit overwhelming, but it is well worth it in the end, for more help check out this article on the Chinese dragon tattoo.

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