Buddha tattoo

Smiling or Laughing Buddha Tattoo: The smiling or laughing Buddha is also known as Budai or Hotei. He is considered very significant in the Buddhist, Taoist and Sinto cultures, symbolizing the Bodhisattva Maitreya. The smiling or laughing Buddha is also known as Budai or Budai Luohan in Chinese. He is referred to as the ‘Happy Buddha’, since he is often depicted laughing or smiling. It is believed that his statues and pictures emanate positive energy and therefore they are placed in front of the main entrance or hall, as a symbol of hope, health, happiness and good luck. Smiling Buddha tattoos are very popular among Buddhist followers and tattoo lovers. Many tourists, who despite being naïve about the origin of the smiling or laughing Buddha, admire the attractive Buddha tattoos. The smiling or laughing Buddha is generally shown as a fat man, smiling, dressed in robes, with a big exposed potbelly stomach. He is either carrying a cloth or linen sack filled with valuables, including rice plants, sweets for children, food and the misery of the world. It is believed that the sack is never empty.
Buddha Tattoo and Pictures: Buddha was an enlightened soul, whose ideas and intelligence lives on even today. His teachings and logic have enabled many to cultivate compassion and shun illusion. Buddha never compelled anyone to follow his beliefs or principles. Different texts describe the origin of the Buddha tattoo, his features, images and pictures. Buddha tattoos are very popular among tattoo enthusiasts. Tattoos are designs made by embedding a dye under the skin. Since ancient times the art of tattooing has been practiced worldwide. Many cultures have practiced this art for the purpose of ornamentation, depicting status and spiritual belief. There are several websites that offer Buddha tattoo designs and pictures, along with other significant information. Designs of various Buddha tattoos are based on different postures of Lord Buddha. Many Buddhists believe that all Buddha images have a supernatural power. There are others who believe that Buddha images possess inspirational power only. Besides the Buddha pictures and images, people also treasure tree trunks that grow in a form resembling a Buddha image. Though there are various interpretations and meanings attached, traditionally all Buddha images were made for religious purposes.
Some of the basic characteristics found in every Buddha image are as follows:
- The sharp aquiline nose.
- The length of Buddha’s fingers and toes extended to the same length.
- Broad shoulders.
- A bulge on the top of the head, signifying immense knowledge and a strong determination.
- Elongated ears, due to his wearing heavy jewelry from a young age.