Angel Tattoo Designs

Notorious Angels

There are a few well known angels. These angels are celebrities in the angel realm that have extraordinary stories associated with them:

• Raphael—The archangel of healing. He is said to be the supervisor of all healers on earth. Rafael comes to aid people when they call upon him. He eases their pain by inspiring them with thoughts and feelings that will lead them to the place or action that will ease their suffering.

• Gabriel—He is known as the angel of annunciation and also the angel of birth. Gabriel is a messenger angel, and is also thought to be the spiritual guide and protector of unborn babies.

• Michael—Often considered the most powerful angel, Michael is a warrior and a defender. Michael is also said to carry souls safely to heaven.

Inspiration for Angel Tattoo Designs

There are many different types of angels; they all perform a different job. Understanding the particular purpose an angel serves may help you to select the right angel tattoo design for you.

The most powerful angels are the Seraphim. These angels create a fiery light so intense that it is impossible to look at them. Seraphim are said to encircle the throne of God. Each of these angels possesses three pairs of wings, has four faces, and resembles a serpent.

Cherubim are celestial historians and hold the knowledge of God. These angels are assigned large tasks that often alter the way of life on earth. Satan was among these types of angels before his fall from grace.

Thrones serve as the chariot for God, and deliver his judgment to earth. They are always trying to create balance between good and evil. They have an unusual appearance; they look like giant flaming wheels covered with many eyes.

Angels that protect the natural world are known as Virtues. In their angelic state, they look like tiny sparks of light. When they appear in human form, they are usually musicians, artists, and scientists who combine the power of love with physics.

Archangels are the protectors of the greater good for humankind. They appear only in human form, and are often human rights leaders and philosophers.

Everyone has a Guardian Angel. These celestial beings protect homes and people and provide comfort and counsel when life becomes challenging.

Symbols Associated with Angels

Angels can signify many things in artistic expression, from religious devotion to a personal statement about life. Adding other elements to these tattoos can individualize them, and clearly express the significance of the tattoo.

Symbols that often appear in angel tattoo designs include:

• Harps
• Doves
• Trumpets
• Swords
• Wands

The addition of these symbols can clarify the angel's message. Harps and trumpets symbolize communication of messages or beauty. Doves would express peace and gentleness, while a sword would indicate protection or a warrior. Wands are a symbol of mysticism and change.

Placement of Angel Tattoos

The shoulder is a popular place for men and women to get an angel tattoo; this is especially true of guardian angels. Many people also have angel wings tattooed on their shoulderblades.

Men often place angel memorials on their chest near their heart, or have large and ornate tattoos inked on their chests and backs.

Women often have angels placed on their abdomens, wrists, and ankles.