The Cross Tattoo

Some of us mark the steps to adulthood by first dates, graduations, pubic hair, and drinking.

Others feel compelled to etch the landmarks of their young life in skin.

Tattoos have never been an interest of mine, but they can certainly be an artful, meaningful contribution to one’s body. I understand their purpose as reminders of where one has come and where one is going, but I have chosen to create those markers in different ways—making t-shirts, for example, or amassing a collection of wine bottles from college days. Mostly Carlo Rossi.

The one tattoo that makes me really think, however, is the cross tattoo. Rarely have I seen it so plain and simple as a cross—sufficient enough in its own symbolism that it doesn’t require embellishment.

Rather, I see it strung around with roses, sometimes with thorns, sometimes turned into altogether hideous things like cartoon creatures and Revelation-esque monsters. Though the most bizarre piece of the puzzle is, it’s often appropriated by those who have zero affiliation with Christianity. Sometimes, they even (vocally) abhor the Christian church.

In the case of the cross-turned-monster, I could begin to understand the symbolism for an atheist, even if I don’t know the history of emotion that fed its creation. But there are so many now who appropriate the cross as only an adornment—an accessory that is striking on the skin. It shows up even more often in jewelry; how many people who wear a cross, wear it because it has genuine meaning to them?

Why is it other religious symbols don’t seem to be used to the extent the cross is? If it is just for looks, wouldn’t the Star of David be as appealing? What about the Star and Crescent?

I have no claim to the Cross, that is certain. And many would argue that it is, at one and the same time, a symbol of faith for Christians and a secular image found in countless places. It need not imply Christianity, but it so often does. I am inclined to believe that it is used precisely because of its religious and cultural import; the Cross MEANS something to people. It’s not just a pretty image.

Ultimately, I guess I wonder: Do those who appropriate it really understand its significance? Or is it being used for shock value more than genuine meaning? Is its use intended to be counter-cultural?

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