I often get questions from folks asking for Celtic symbol meanings as they consider various Celtic designs for tattooing purposes.
One such question came from a gentleman wanting to know if there were any Celtic symbols for protection. To which I respond:
Dear Inky Celt Man:
As you are wanting a quick list of Celtic symbols for protection – I’ll provide these here:
- Griffin
- Aspen (Edad of the Ogham)
- Sigel (of runes)
- Fire
- Moon
- Hawk
Legend has it that the soothsayer of a particular Celtic clan would create personal designs for a tribe member. These designs were specific to that warrior and his family line, and were considered highly protective in battle and throughout life.
You may want to consider taking a spirit journey – a time of introspection and spiritual contemplation to discover your own unique designs that signify protection for you. These could be your own personal designs of protection that you could bear as tattoos.
I would also encourage you to do your own research on the ancient Celts in order to fully appreciate all the diversity and symbolism their culture provided humanity. I think you’ll find their ultimate protection came from an unshakable faith/belief system.
Better yet, take some time to meditate upon that which you are trying to achieve in obtaining such a protective emblem. Often when we invoke the energy of our Celtic forebears we find these ancient energies are forthcoming with incredible insight and enlightenment. Perhaps such insight will provide you with more substance and meaning than just picking a random Celtic symbol that might not be as personal as it could be.
You may also find more information on the Celtic Symbol Meanings page of my website.
Whatever your action, I wish you the very best of luck on your journey.
Regards & blessings to you Celt Man,
A. Venefica
im looking for a symbol that means protection or safe travel over water. any help would be great
Hi Sash,
Octopus. Hands down. Specifically, ancient Greeks would fashion protective amulets depicting the octopus. These medallions were legendary amongst sea travelers – noted to protect sailors from the dangers of the deep as well as protection from the fabled “evil eye.” You can read about octopus symbolism here: http://www.whats-your-sign.com/octopus-animal-symbolism.html
The Japanese are attributed for carrying jade frog fetishes & frog charms with them during sea travel to ward against dangers.
The Celts adopted dolphins as their protective mascots while traveling on the seas. They were convinced these creatures kept them safe while journeying.
I have a great great ancestor who swore heather (the plant) is the end-all-be-all for luck when it comes to travel, particularly by water. I’ve written a bit about heather here: http://www.whats-your-sign.com/celtic-meaning-heather.html . You can make a simple sachet with dried heather flowers in it & just tuck it in your duffle bag as you travel.
Namaste & safe journeying to you.
A.
Im looking for symbols of advanced protection. Foresight into the future so that one can defend. Maybe a symbol for wisdom is what Im looking for? Any help would be greatly appreciated!
thanks
c
Hello.
I’m looking for a symbol that would mean protection from malevolent forces and help enhance feelings of happiness. Any idea which I should use?