Appropriate for both men and women, angel tattoos are most commonly associated with religious beliefs and memories of loved ones. Religious proclamations frequently feature angels as winged forms with halos or as bright forms of light in religious scenes or adjacent to specific passages from the Bible. Memorial angel tattoos, on the other hand, feature these winged forms holding banners or hearts inscribed with names. As eye-catching as these designs are in both color and grayscale tones, angel tattoos are classic pieces that endure the test of time.

Angel Tattoos Representing Specific Religions
Angel tattoos can be representative of various religions, particularly within the three largest religions in the world: Christian, Jewish and Islamic faiths. Within these religions, angels are believed to be messengers and servants of God, or another higher power, who are made of energy.

Christian Angel Tattoos:
Christian angel tattoos generally depict angels as having a human forms wearing white robes and having large wings. Christian angel tattoos may also position a halo above the head of the angel. Many of these tattoos are detailed scenes including features such as a cross, Jesus Christ and/or passages from the Bible. The most popular angel tattoos are of the archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael.

Jewish Angel Tattoos:
In Judiasm, angels are considered to have no physical form. For a more “graphic” style Jewish angel tattoo, many choose to ink the Hebrew word for “angel” onto their skin instead of opting for pictorial designs presenting the angel as a bright light.

Islamic Angel Tattoos:
Islam believes that angels are messengers of the God Allah. They are believed to be made of light and have the ability to shape into any form. Their sole purpose is to serve God and do as he commands; therefore they do not sin. As a result, Islamic faiths do not believe in fallen angels. Islamic angel tattoos may be as simple as glyphs for the word “angel” or as extravagant as back pieces depicting Islamic worshipers praying to Allah surrounded by a bright light. Since Muslims believe in guardian angels, the names or portraits of children surrounded by light may be an option for those seeking Islamic angel tattoos.

Fallen Angel Tattoos:
Quite simply, fallen angels are angels who have sinned; therefore, their appearance changes from that of pure and holy to a much darker presence. Common elements that are frequently seen in fallen angel tattoos include horned angels and angels with torn wings. These designs are commonly dark using various shades of black ink for a doomed feeling. Motorcycle gangs and those attracted to Gothic design styles are regular fans of fallen angel tattoos.


Cherub Tattoos:
Cherub tattoos can be playful and youthful while still making a religious declaration. These child-like angels are usually seen with curly hair, dimpled cheeks and chubby physical forms. Many hold banners baring names or special messages while others hold bows and arrows – classic symbols of love – making them fitting memorials for the loss of a child.

Wing Tattoos
Angel wings are design elements that can transform any object into a more spiritual or visually appealing design. Women commonly pair angel wings with objects like hearts and jewels while men opt for winged daggers and dragons. Designs that are appropriate for both sexes include winged crosses and the names of loved ones with wings at each end.

Wings surrounding belly buttons, placed on the nape of one’s neck, or positioned in the center of the shoulder blades are other popular wing tattoos that are primarily chosen by women.