Tattoo of Two Praying Hands

Religious tattoos show ones devotion, but unlike other iconography, the tattoo of two praying hands tattoo is not set in religious doctrine, but in real life.

The Story Behind the Tattoo of Two Praying Hands

One would think that the praying hands tattoo got its beginning through the fresco art of master painters like Michelangelo, but that is not the case. The story begins with two brothers: Albrecht and Albert Durer. Both men were miners and both wished to study art at the academy at Nuremburg. Only one brother could go because they were poor and they decided which would go by the only fair way available: flipping a coin. One brother would go to the academy while the other would continue to work in order to finance the education. Albrecht won the toss, went to school and his brother Albert continued to work as a miner.

The work that Albrecht created was considered genius by the teachers and he was earning well through the sale of his work and private commissions. He could now repay the favor his brother Albert bestowed upon him and was able to finance his brother’s education. Upon returning to the mines, Albrecht happened upon his brother kneeling in prayer at the success of his brother. Albrecht was brought to tears to see his brother’s hands knarled and twisted from years of working in the mine. Albert had sacrificed his hands and talent for art in order to give his brother the chance at his dreams. It is from this scene, that Albrecht first painted the two praying hands. Although he had created many works of art, none have had the impact or popularity like this one has.

Symbol and Significance of the Tattoo

The tattoo of two praying hands is seen the most in the Spanish and Latin American communities. Though not restricted to it, the work is wholly a Christian symbol and is gotten by many devout Catholics as a remembrance to the power of Christ and prayer. Alongside tattoos of the Virgin Mary or the cross, there is no symbol more recognized or easily interpreted as the depiction of two hands praying. The tattoo itself is a symbol of the strength of prayer. Although many people will get the praying hand tattoo to signify their faith, the art itself has a deeper meaning. It represents dedication to self and family, courage and sacrifice and respect.

Design Variations of the Tattoo

The praying hands tattoo works well alone but many people like to stylize them to their own artistic likes and dislikes as well as their own beliefs.

Rosary

Many Catholics that get this tattoo will have the two praying clasping a rosary bead. This signifies their faith and devotion to their religion and God.

Praying Hands and Rosary

Scriptures

The Lord’s Prayer, and other psalms, works very well coupled with the praying hands. There are many famous bible quotes and scriptures that can mean a lot to you in your faith and any form or variation can be added to the tattoo.

Praying Hands and Other Religious Iconography

A deeply devout religious person will most likely view the praying hands as a symbol of their faith, but sometimes they want to expand on the design to include other meanings. The rosary is one such symbol of their faith but many will also combine the praying hands with:

• Rosary Beads
• Praying Hands on the Bible
• Crosses
• Laurel or Crown of Thorns

Prayer and Cross

Prayer, Cross & Rosary

Portraits

Sometimes the praying hands will be included in portrait art as found with the Virgin Mary praying and holding a rosary. Other saints, such as Padre Pio, can also be artistically rendered in prayer.

Mary With Praying Hands

Doves

Doves have long since been a sign of peace and they were even the sign to Moses that the flood was over. Praying hands can be combined with doves to symbolize the peace and tranquility of the soul.

Light of Christ

Like the Virgin Mary, praying hands can also be seen with a light surrounding them. This gives the appearance that the light of Christ or God is shining down on you.

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