The scorpion has long been a popular tattoo symbol in many different cultures, including a number of traditional tribal tattoo styles in Africa, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. In fact, almost everywhere you can find these potent relatives of the spider you can find scorpion tattoos. In most cases the scorpion tattoos are potent amulets and talismans - meant to protect the bearer of the tattoo and ward off both the sting of the scorpion and often times, evil spirits, for the scorpion is widely feared and highly respected by all beings, both natural and supernatural. Such is the power of the scorpion.
The Scorpion, long an emblem of treachery, death, danger, pain, wickedness, hatred and envy -- is all due to the sting of its tail, which is generally considered to be fatal, in particular for small animals, children, the weak and the elderly. From all over the world, Scorpion legends tell of the stinging tail serving as a weapon and for protection. Scorpion amulets are still worn for protection in places like Tibet and Egypt. The Egyptian goddess, Isis, had giant Scorpions as bodyguards. Other ancients had the Scorpion guarding gateways to the underworld, sacred gateways and tombs.
Astrologically speaking, the 'Scorpio' is the eighth sign of the zodiac. It rules over the time period October 24th to November 22nd. Early Christians believed that sexual temptations were irresistible during that period, and were accordingly wary -- or alert! The Scorpion mating dance is exotic (if not erotic) and those born under Scorpio have a reputation for both eroticism and rather exotic tastes in the boudoir, in addition to notoriously prodigious sexual appetites!
See also: Insect Tattoo Index.
