"Mighty oaks from little acorns grow." The acorn has long been valued for its potential strength and virility, and was a widespread symbol of regeneration. From the little acorn springs the mighty oak, prompting various cultures to see in it the qualities of fecundity and patience, and urging those who start small projects to persevere.
In ancient cultures, the acorn was taken as a talisman to ward off evil spirits. In Britain, to carry around an acorn meant long life, good luck, and guidance when lost. Old English folklore says that a woman who carried an acorn on her person kept wrinkles at bay. For Thor, the Norse god of thunder, the oak was sacred because it withstood lightning strikes. The acorn subsequently became associated with protection from storms. Keeping an acorn on the window sill was recommended for just this purpose.
The acorn motif is found in ancient statues and carvings -- on Greek statues of Artemis, goddess of the hunt, and on the necklace of her Roman equivalent, Diana. Celtic goddesses also liked the acorn for its association with fertility and immortality.
For the Native American, the acorn was a traditional ration in times of food shortages. In Japan, Korea, and Europe, acorns were soaked to release tannins before being dried and later ground for meal. Legend has it that English drunkards of the 1600s were given the juice from the acorn as a hangover cure, and for strength in resisting drink thereafter.
In tattoo designs, acorns and squirrels are often paired together. A circular charm of oak leaves and acorns recalls an ancient 'emblem of abundance' and is a popular tattoo motif. A pair of acorns may suggest the owner is 'well hung' -- and willing to, either advertise the fact, or perhaps is a bit insecure about it!
See also: Tree tattoos, Flower & Plant Tattoo Index.
