Ever since the dawn of time humans have been amazed and terrified of the big daddies of the sea: the shark. It’s no surprise then that people are getting these almost hypnotising behemoths tattooed onto their bodies. But what are the specific reasons people give for doing it?
Movies
Everyone has a favourite shark movie and many people use memorable scenes from one of these movies as the inspiration for their tattoo. The Steven Spielberg classic Jaws was one of the highest grossing movies of all time, and it’s shark villain made many of us afraid to step foot in the ocean. Some took the iconic image of Jaws with its mouth wide open and razor teeth showing, and used it as their tattoo. Some people may get sharks from one of the array of different shark-based movies out there, but it outwardly and proudly shows their interest in the specific movie showcased or just the general shark movie genre.
Sailors
Sailors have had a long tradition of placing a shark tattoo on their body to prove that they are not afraid of dying at sea, so shark tattoos for men on board was not uncommon. It also is a sign of hoping for protection from the gods from the sharks, as it was believed that if a shark followed your ship, one of the crew would die.
Mythology and Tradition
The Fijian shark god Dakuwanga is believed to devour lost souls and protect fishermen at sea, whilst in Hawaii native folklore talks of sharks that shape-shift and roam everywhere. Hawaiian mythology includes a shark god Kamohoalii whom it is believed would guide lost boats home after they fed it Kava. For these reasons shark tattoos for men who live in these islands and believe in this mythology are common and are valued by their culture.
Symbolism
The shark is a deadly creature, and invokes much symbolism amongst humans. The main trait a shark carries is fearlessness, so many people who feel that describes them perfectly will have the shark tattooed on them. Other traits associated with sharks are aggression, power, strength, insight, and curiosity. Just because someone has a shark tattooed on them doesn’t necessarily mean they are showing that they’re aggressive and strong, it can also be attributed with clear vision and intelligence, which sharks use effectively to hunt down their prey.
Variations
Of course there is not just one type of shark. Many different sharks can have different meanings. For example, a hammerhead shark is seen as a protector, believed to have shielded men from the deadly creatures in the ocean. Having this tattooed can mean you are a good guardian and are always watching over someone. The Great White Shark is the ruthlessly efficient shark that is commonly seen in movies as the human killer, and can often symbolise being at the top of the food chain. Of course, many cartoon sharks are loved and remembered through ink, much like Shark Tale’s Lenny.
Obviously each shark tattoo for men has its own distinct and personal meaning, but the above are just a few ideas of why many people choose to get sharks inked.
Check out the best shark tattoos for men
Here’s a colorful cartoon shark tattoo for men. Although sharks are considered ferocious and aggressive, the tattoo artist waters down their terrifying nature with an eyeglass, a splash of color and a funky hat. And although this design depicts a playful nature, it could also be used to caution against a deadly underlying persona.
This image shows a hammerhead skillfully inked on the entire torso incorporating different variations of art. You can tell that the shading is professional because you can almost feel the wild rhythm of the tattoo.
This is an impressive shark tattoo idea that combines the realistic appeal of a ferocious shark and their aggressive yet fascinating trait. The tattoo is often worn to symbolize efficiency, ruthlessness, and cleverness.
Bold, fierce and edgy, the Maori tribal shark tattoos are often worn by men to symbolize their strong connection with nature. Note that each pattern in the tattoo bears a specific meaning.
A tribal shark seems to glide across the man’s back-arm with intent to wrap his bicep, creating a fascinating piece of art. The placement of the tattoo at the back of the arm further heightens the detailed nature of the tattoo.
Note how graphic the boat and the shark appear. The shading and choice of color are also on point as you can actually feel the fierceness of the shark. If you are looking for a tattoo that tells an interesting yet gory story, then this is it.
This tattoo idea depicts a portrait of a shark inked in detail on a man’s shoulder and biceps. Note that sharks are considered powerful predators and embody several traits including fearlessness and intelligence.
One of the more unique shark tattoo ideas on the forearm. A simple but unique anatomical shark tattoo speaks volumes of the wearer’s distinct personality. Striking and unlike other styles of tattooing, this anatomical tattoo reveals what’s lies under the skin of the ultimate predator.
This tattoo depicts an image of an animated tiger shark striking a ferocious pose. The wearer places the tattoo on the arm since the elongated body of the creature allows for much creativity. Also, the contrast looks fabulous.
This design is small but it’s one of the most badass shark tattoo ideas. Who says you need a huge piece of ink to make a profound effect? The tiny shark tattoo paired with an equally tiny anchor tattoo on the thumbs tell of the wearer’s strength and stability as symbolized by the anchor, and their powerful and relentless psyche as symbolized by the shark.