8 Tribal Cross Tattoo Designs To Inspire Your Next Ink

The iconic cross symbol holds significant spiritual and cultural meaning across religions and civilizations. When combined with the bold, intricate linework of tribal art styles, this universal symbol of faith takes on a whole new meaning. Tribal cross tattoos blend ancient traditions with modern body art, creating impactful designs. If you are looking for meaningful ink reflecting your faith and untamed warrior spirit, a tribal cross tattoo might be the perfect choice! The article explores some incredible tribal cross tattoo designs, ranging from minimalist to full-blown backpieces. Keep reading to find inspiration for your next ink.

Meaning Of A Tribal Cross Tattoo

Tribal cross tattoos hold deep symbolism that appeals to many. Here are some common interpretations of the designs:

• Since the cross represents the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and is a central symbol in Christianity, a cross tattoo may signify the wearer’s faith, spirituality, and religious devotion.
• Blending tribal art with a cross in body art is a way to connect to ancestral roots and traditions. Such designs carry religious and cultural significance.
• Tribal patterns usually feature bold and graphic lines and geometric patterns, which evoke a sense of strength. The designs may also symbolize protection and perseverance.
• Many people blend the image of a cross with tribal art to signify their personal beliefs, values, transformation, growth, and even spiritual awakening.

In many cultures, tribal designs are used as marks of rites of passage, bravery, or warrior status. Adding a cross to these designs amplifies the tattoo’s meaning, symbolizing a man’s role as a protector and provider within his family or community.

In Polynesian culture, tribal cross tattoos may incorporate patterns symbolizing balance and the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds. In Celtic traditions, crosses often signify the intersection of the physical and spiritual realms. Tribal Celtic cross tattoos frequently feature knotwork or spirals.

For Native American cultures, cross-like symbols can represent the four directions, embodying balance, guidance, and the union of spiritual forces.

Tattoos displaying a fusion of tribal artistry with religious symbolism have multi-layered meanings and symbolism. They are highly influenced by different perspectives, interpretations, life experiences, and cultural backgrounds.  If you are a person of faith and the idea of a tribal cross tattoo corresponds to your beliefs, scroll down to the next section to explore some unique designs.

8 Tribal Cross Tattoo Designs

The following tribal cross designs offer a powerful way to express your faith and individuality. So, take a deep breath, dive into these inspiring ideas, and find the perfect design to wear your beliefs onto your skin.

1. Tribal Cross Tattoo For Guys

The bold and graphic tribal cross tattoo in black ink looks absolutely stunning. This striking design incorporates thick lines to create tribal elements and bold shapes around the cross. The use of subtle shading and negative spacing helps create a strong contrasting visual. The intertwining of tribal and Christian symbolism represents one’s mixed spiritual and cultural roots. The tattoo is ideal for men who embrace their heritage while holding firm religious beliefs.

2. Celtic Cross Tribal Tattoo

This powerful wrist tattoo features a bold cross with Celtic knot patterns. The seamless fusion of Celtic elements with Christian symbols makes a perfect element for a culturally rich art piece. The never-ending loops of the knot within the cross may reinforce the wearer’s connection to their faith and heritage. The tattoo uses crisp, bold lines and empty spaces to create a contrasting effect against the skin and add depth to the design. A Celtic cross tattoo, such as this, is suitable for those who prefer a simple yet visually impactful design.

3. Tribal Cross With Wings Tattoo

This tattoo features a solid black cross with tribal elements at the ends. The design is crisp and simple and incorporates simple tribal tattoo aesthetics — bold lines, the use of black ink, and abstract motifs. The abstract-style wings on the cross evokes spiritual transcendence and liberation that come from one’s faith. The free and flowing nature of the wings adds a sense of freedom to the composition. It is perfect for individuals seeking a simple yet spiritual piece.

4. Tribal Jesus On Cross Tattoo

This illustrative tattoo depicting Jesus on the cross is a powerful religious symbol and a bold declaration of one’s faith and beliefs. This blackwork-style tattoo is rather illustrative. It uses abundant negative space and intricate detailing to depict the portrait of Jesus and create tribal-style flowing patterns around the central design. The tattoo intertwines sacred imagery, ancient symbolism, and modern Christianity, appealing to those who appreciate religious iconography and bold imagery.

5. Tribal Maltese Cross Tattoo

This tattoo is a tribal take on the Maltese cross. The symmetrical cross is visually pleasing and symbolically rich. The design mainly incorporates thick, black lines, sharp angles, and patterns heavily influenced by tribal art. The Maltese cross is a symbol of strength and protection and was used by the Knights of Malta. Therefore, it is known for its historical significance. The crisp lines give the tattoo a clean look, which makes it ideal for those drawn to simple, aesthetic tattoos.

6. Tribal Cross Tattoo On Back

A large-scale tribal back tattoo can instantly draw attention towards you. The back tattoo above is a blend of tribal and Celtic design elements. The central figure is a cross with never-ending knots, similar to the Celtic knots. It is surrounded by swirling patterns and uses negative space to create contrast, which adds dimension to the design. This grand spectacle integrates various cultural motifs and signifies one’s multifaceted identity. This elaborate piece is perfect for those who want a statement tattoo rich in symbolism.

7. Tribal Cross Tattoo On Forearm

This tattoo features a simple cross as the central motif. The cross is rendered in solid black ink, with pointed diamond-shaped ends. It is surrounded by tribal elements and patterns, mostly crisp lines and geometrical patterns that create a unique blend. The design highlights one’s faith and heritage. The tattoo is an ideal and popular choice for those who want a balance between bold and intricate elements.

8. Tribal Cross Sleeve Tattoo

Traditionally, tribal tattoos are monochromatic and are done using black ink. However, you can add your own twist to the design and add a dash of color, just like this vibrant tribal cross sleeve tattoo. This design takes inspiration from indigenous artwork and showcases a cross, filled with a linework of tribal patterns. This pink and blue cross is further embellished with bright floral patterns, creating a visually arresting piece. Its style mirrors one’s joyous celebration of life’s many cultural and religious facets.

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Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Eve PhillipsProfessional Tattoo Artist

   

Eve Phillips is an experienced artist in various tattoo styles, though she specializes in tattoos with fine details and floral elements. She has owned studios for 20 years in both Australia and the United Kingdom and has a wealth of knowledge and experience in all areas of tattoo art, health, licensing, trends, current issues, and history.

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Gracia OdileBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Gracia Odile is a teacher-turned-beauty and lifestyle writer with three years of professional experience. She has a bachelor's degree in English from St. Stephen's College, a master's in Anthropology from the University of Madras, and a degree in education from GGSIPU.

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Ramona SinhaEditor

Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.

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Shreya MukherjeeBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Shreya is a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience. After graduating from Christ University, Bengaluru, she started as a writer for a non-profit organization, Bhumi, as an intern. She then wrote for a progressive content website.

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