110 Christian Tattoo Ideas to Declare Your Faith

From the traditional cross tattoo to biblically accurate angels, there are numerous Christian based tattoos that you can choose from.

As a lover of ancient and fine art, Christian imagery has always fascinated me. After all, some images have been around for around 2000 years! This is why I get so excited about translating these concepts into faith based tattoos.

In this post, I will introduce you to the Christian tattoo ideas and expand on all the different kinds of religious tattoos that you can get! Let's begin!

The Best Christian Tattoo Ideas

Here are the top Christian tattoo designs that you can choose from:

Cross Tattoos

If you are considering Christian tattoos or religious tattoos, then the cross tattoo is likely the first idea that you may think about.

This is because it is such a powerful symbol - a part of every Christian tradition. What's more a cross tattoo is instantly recognizable around the world. Due to this, it is a great way to depict your faith.

What I also like about the cross tattoo is that there is so much versatility with this kind of design. It is a great option if you are looking for simple Christian tattoos. At the same time, it works just as well if you want something a bit more complex.

Minimalistic Cross Tattoo Designs

If you want to keep your Christian tattoo as simple as possible, then a minimalistic cross is a good way to go. Here, it is just two lines intersecting one another. This works well if you like to keep your Christian tattoos as small as possible.

Of course, this kind of cross tattoo doesn't have to be completely minimalistic. A good way to switch up the design on these kinds of Christian tattoos is to make the cross look like a sketch or brushwork.

Wood Cross Tattoo Designs

If you would like something a bit more authentic or historic, then a wooden cross is the way to go. Christian tattoos like these are meant to represent the actual cross that Jesus Christ was nailed to.

Due to this, such Christian tattoos are reminders of the sacrifice made for your everlasting life. If you want more impactful body art, this is certainly a concept for you to consider.

There is also the fact that these Christian tattoos are visually stunning. Therefore, it works just as well for aesthetic appeal.

Ornate Cross Tattoo Designs

If you love the historic look of crosses, then you may want to think about getting a more ornate or decorative Christian tattoo.

There are a couple of ideas to consider with such Christian tattoos. You could go with wrought iron crosses of the olden days. Or, you could choose those that are intricate and beautifully decorated with precious stones.

While many of these Christian tattoos are done with black ink or gray ink, feel free to do something a little different and add some color to your tattoo ideas.

Celtic Cross Tattoo Designs

This is a different and interesting take on the cross tattoo idea. The Celtic cross does look unique when compared to traditional cross designs. At the same time, this kind of Christian tattoo also has its own meaning.

The Celtic cross is based in Irish history and culture. So, if you do have Celtic roots, then this can be a nod to your patriotism as well.

At the same time, this cross tattoo borrows from pagan ideas and concepts. Therefore, Christian tattoos such as these are a great way to depict that there is far more to Christianity and its history than people realize.

Three Cross Tattoos

I feel like this kind of cross tattoo deserves its own category. Now, this kind of Christian tattoo has different meanings.

See, some people choose the three crosses design as a representation of the Holy Trinity - the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Others use the three crosses design of an actual representation of the crucifixion. This also includes the two men who were crucified beside Jesus Christ.

With this kind of cross tattoo, it isn't just reminding yourself of the sacrifice that was made on your behalf. It is also to remind you that you have faith in a loving deity who had no qualms about being sacrificed alongside sinners.

These kinds of Christian tattoos really work best on the upper arm as they show a certain respect for the tattoo design.

Now, while black ink and gray shading is common for such Christian tattoos, you can certainly brighten things up with colors if you want.

Rosary Tattoos

Rosary tattoos are becoming increasingly popular and it is easy to see why! For one thing these Christian tattoos are beautiful, especially when they are made to look as realistic as possible.

For another thing, the rosary tattoo is perfectly suited to those who need guidance when it comes to focusing on their faith. The reality is that the modern world is incredibly distracting. And, more often than not, these distractions are far from pious.

The rosary, however, was specially designed to help count prayers and remind you of the important religious moments throughout history and the calendar year. Due to this, getting this kind of a Christian tattoo may help you to be more focused on your spiritual journey.

With these kinds of religious tattoos, it can help to get this Christian tattoo in places that are a bit more visible such as your lower arm and forearm. If having very visible Christian tattoos aren't an issue for you, then you may want to consider ones on your wrist and hands.

Praying Hands Tattoos

It should come as no surprise to learn that a Christian tattoo with hands folded in prayer has a rather profound meaning. In fact, it can have a couple of different meanings.

The prayer hands could be used as a reminder to help you pray more often or to consider prayer when times get tough. At the same time, this could be a reminder to humble yourself before God and to consider him before making any decisions.

With such Christian tattoos, there are two aesthetic routes for you to take. You can get a tattoo based on the Albrecht Durer sketch. Or, you can choose to get a more religious rendering.

Jesus Christ Tattoos

If you don't mind going all out with your Christian tattoo, then what better idea than to get a Jesus Christ tattoo? A Jesus tattoo is a true sign of devotion. It also means that you are not trying to hide or shy away from your religion. Instead, you are showcasing your faith to the world.

What I like about Jesus tattoos is that this design is incredibly versatile, although they are frequently portrayed on the upper arm or chest. There are so many different ways that you can portray Jesus Christ. You can choose to get a more realistic looking Jesus tattoo. Or, you can decide to get an artistic rendering of a Jesus tattoo.

If you would like to do something a little different with your Christ tattoo, you can go ahead and get one done in a traditional style. Really, the options are endless with these types of Christian tattoos so don't be afraid to get creative!

The only thing to really keep in mind is that if you do want to get a realistic Jesus tattoo that you should choose a talented tattoo artist as these can be rather complex.

Crucifixion Tattoos

If you would like to take your Christian tattoo ideas to the next level, then you may want to consider getting a tattoo of the crucifixion. This is a great way to remind you of the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus made for you.

In turn, this may help you to remain on the right path, if you have had some trouble doing so in the past. At the very least, it can remind you to repent if you stray from the path.

There are a few different ways that you can bring such Christian tattoos to life. You can choose a simple silhouette or get a more realistic rendering of this tattoo on your upper arm or other desired location.

If you don't mind going all out, you may want to get the entire crucifixion scene. Keep in mind that this kind of Jesus tattoo will require a bit more realistic so it may look better as a chest or back tattoo.

Virgin Mary Tattoos

If you are of the Catholic faith, then the Virgin Mary plays a pivotal role in how you practice religion. She is important for several reasons.

First off, there is the immaculate conception. God chose a regular girl with no special background for a very important purpose. And, so, she can be seen as a representation for all other believers - God has a plan for you.

There was also the fact that she bravely took on this role despite the obstacles and hardships that lay ahead of her.

To add to this, Mary continued to be an important part of Jesus life, standing by his side every step of the way. Despite how important her role and position was, she continued to be humble.

With this kind of Christian tattoos, you can choose to get a realistic portrait of the Virgin Mary or you can get a tattoo of a statue or painting that was done in her honor.

Bible Verse Tattoos

Many people turn to the bible for words of wisdom, courage, and guidance. They also read the bible for comfort when times get rough.

This is why getting Christian sayings as Christian tattoos is the perfect option! You can get a word, phrase, or verse that is especially meaningful to you. You can choose from the Old or New Testament - whatever holds the most significance.

Of course, some verses can be pretty lengthy so you may simply want to get the chapter and verse as a script tattoo instead.

If you do want to get a longer phrase, I would consider locations such as the inner arm, forearm, spine, etc. as locations for your ink. The natural lines of these spots make for a more aesthetically pleasing tattoo.

Lion of Judah Tattoos

When it comes to Christian tattoos, you may not always want to get one that is very obviously religious in nature. In some instances, this may not be appropriate.

This could be due to the nature of your work. Or, it could be because while you are proud of your faith, you don't want your tattoo to seem aggressive when around people of other religions.

In this case, you may want to consider going with Christian tattoos that are based on symbology instead. The perfect option is the lion. You may have heard of Jesus being referred to as the Lion of Judah.

This is because he is a descendent of the tribe of Judah. At the same time, he is a protector and one that has fought and died for his faith. As a result, he is considered a warrior, much like the lion.

The great thing about such Christian tattoos is that you can get a really meaningful but subtle design. And, as you will see below, there are also plenty of designs that you can get with this kind of concept.

Angel Tattoos

It is easy to forget that there are so many different elements to Christianity. A Mother Mary or Jesus tattoo can be a rather traditional option and you may be looking for something a little different.

In this case, you may want to consider angels for your Christian tattoos. Now, there are a few different types of angels that you can get.

If you would like a more biblical feel to your tattoo, you could consider getting archangels like Michael, Gabriel, or Raphael. They are often depicted in old artwork - if you do want a more intricate tattoo, you can get these angels accomplishing their tasks according to the bible.

Or, you can choose to get a biblically accurate tattoo if you want something that is quite different. Some look like interlocking wheels with eyes. Others are made of an eye with six wings surrounding it.

Sure, those descriptions do sound like they would make for a bizarre tattoo but at the same time it ensures that not too many other people would have a tattoo quite like yours!

Well, if you want to get a Christian tattoo, you now know precisely which options are available to you. It is now just a matter of picking one that is a good match for your beliefs!