Olive branch tattoo is getting more and more attention these days. People seem to like it for many reasons: its shape, its delicacy, and the symbolism. Also, it is one of the most beautiful minimalist types of tattoos. So, if you like the olive branch and want to get a tattoo of it – keep reading. We have gathered a beautiful collection of the best ideas and their meanings.
Olive branch tattoo meaning
Generally, it is a symbol of peace. But it also symbolizes victory and together with the white dove embodies the divine peace between ex-enemies. The olive tree can live for more than one hundred years, so in many ancient cultures, it was a sacred tree. The majority of the symbols of it came from ancient Greece. In the first Olympic games, the winners received an olive branch wreath as the highest award, and from here it became a symbol of the victory.
The olive branch in Greek mythology
According to the legend, the Greek Goddess Athena was competing with the Poseidon for the Athens. Poseidon built a well, and Athena planted the first olive tree near that well. All the other gods and goddesses decided that Athena’s gift was better then Poseidon’s, so they gave the land to her. As we can see from this myth – the olive tree had an enormous significance for the ancient Greeks. In this case, it was even more important than the water. And no wonder why – until today the Greeks produce more than 7.5% of all olive oil in the world. This simple tree gave them food and built their economy.
The olive branch in the Bible
Another beautiful image is the white dove with an olive branch in the beak. One of the first mentions of this image is in the Hebrew Bible where Noah sends a white dove to spread the message about the divine wrath. Later, the dove came back to the ark with a dove in her beak. It was also one of the first symbols of the early Christians. Then, in the 5th century, it became an official Christian symbol of peace.
Other olive branch tattoo meanings
The olive branch is also a symbol that embodies fertility and immortality. A tattoo of it can mean the renewal of life and the desire for the inner peace. It is worth remembering another old tradition that comes from this symbol. In the olden days, to prove that the intentions are genuine, the messenger brought a bunch of wool together with an olive branch. Therefore, we have one more symbolical meaning for tattoo – sincerity.
Olive branch tattoo ideas
It is a small tattoo. So you can apply it to various parts of your body. Also, it is very unusual to add any other elements to the olive branch. The most beautiful examples are one or two crossed branches with leaves and a few olives on it. You will see that most of the ideas are in black and grey colors which adds even more delicacy and simplicity to it. Take a look at our selection of most beautiful olive branch tattoos below. We are sure you will find inspiration for your next ink.
