The popularity of Hebrew tattoos has increased over the past two decades. The idea to have a tattoo with an ancient scripture seems very cool and fashionable. Sometimes the tattoos with Hebrew words, letters and Bible verses show the person’s connection to Jewishness. But in most cases, people choose ancient language as a modern and eye-catching design for a tattoo.

The Meanings and Types of Hebrew Tattoos

Hebrew is an old language, which carries sacred knowledge and the wisdom of generations. It may express a deep spiritual connection to faith, love or courage. The meaning of a tattoo directly depends on chosen word, phrase or image.

The most typical types of Hebrew tattoos are the following:

Words such as faith, love, life courage written in Hebrew;

Names of family members, which shows the dedication and love for your family;

Initials of beloved;

Hebrew phrases and sayings about God, religion and faith;

Names of prophets from Torah;

Hebrew alphabet: there are 22 characters in the alphabet and each of them can be inked as an attractive image of tattoo;

The Kabbalah or the 72 words for God: each one of these words has its own The combination of several characters should form one of the 72 Kabbalistic words;

Hebrew matching tattoos for couples to indicate romantic feelings like love and devotion.

The Hebrew lettering can be complemented with different images, such as flowers, the sun and the moon, stars, which bring new meanings into the tattoo. Other famous Hebrew tattoos include:

Anchor – is a symbol of faith in Christianity and the biblical teachings.

Hamsa – is used as a protection against evil, troubles and people with bad intentions. It is sometimes depicted with fish that denote good luck or Hebrew prayers.

Infinity – signifies the absence of any boundaries or limits. Everything is infinite.

Tree – characterizes its wearer as a strong, serious and decisive person.

The Hebrew Scripts and Possible Mistakes

Hebrew is one of the most ancient languages of the world. The Hebrew script has undergone an evolutionary process and now it has a standardized written form. The tattoo with Hebrew script always looks exciting and trendy, which attracts a lot of people. However, before getting any Hebrew lettering, it is essential to consider some important points to translate the tattoo properly and avoid common mistakes:

Hebrew is written right-to-left. The phrases or words that are tattooed backwards can be misunderstood or look like gibberish.

Some letters are often replaced by other, similar looking letters. As in the previous case, the tattoo may acquire absolutely another interpretation.

Certain letters of Hebrew script look different at the end of a word;

“Yod” is the shortest letter but not an apostrophe! It deserves its own line, but often it shares the space with other letters.

The differences between Biblical Hebrew (ancient texts) and Modern Hebrew, with a big influence from English, German, Russian, are found in grammar, phonology, syntax and vocabulary. If you choose a religious tattoo, it should not include words from Modern Hebrew lexicon.

Hebrew has no written vowels, so pay attention to general grammar and spelling rules to pronounce the word correctly.

Religious aspect. Judaism is against tattoo, so be ready to get some criticism and disapproval.

The Designs of Hebrew Tattoos

The standard Hebrew tattoo is presented in the form of a lettering performed in blackwork. Still, the colorful alternatives are possible, especially with some bright additional images.

Size and location. The Hebrew pattern can be chosen in any sizes, depending on location and personal preferences. The large phrases or messages should be done on the thigh, back, arm or calf, while small tattoos and single words are better to depict on the wrist, finger, neck, behind the ear.

Cursive vs script. Hebrew in handwriting and in text looks different to some degree. The calligraphy used in text like Torah has intricate curves and swirls in comparison with handwriting, modern media and press.

#1. The Ancient Hebrew Tattoo on the Back

This cute tattoo on the back means “life” in Hebrew and is part of the common phrase “l’chaim“! The small, tender touch looks fabulous around lace of wedding dress.

#2. The Christian “God’s Grace” in Hebrew Tattoo on the Wrist

Three pretty letters are on the basis of this religious tattoo. It symbolizes God’s grace in Hebrew and serves as a nice decoration for your wrist.

#3. The “Faith” in Hebrew Tattoo on the Biceps

One single word but so meaningful pattern is inked on the man’s biceps. This Hebrew tattoo is a perfect male pattern, which denotes “faith” and focuses on the wearer’s spirituality.

#4. The “Family” in Hebrew Tattoo on the Biceps

In this case, Hebrew lettering on the biceps signifies “family”. The tattoo bears the idea of friendly family, where respect and love for each member are great values.

#5. The Hebrew Lettering Tattoo Around the Wrist

Here the Hebrew lettering gently covers the wrist, creating a marvelous spiral tattoo. Let this pattern be a source of inexhaustible energy and enthusiasm.

#6. The Hebrew Tattoo With Phrases on the Back

The amazing design of this tattoo on the back definitely stands out. The Hebrew phrase in the form of a circle presents a super fantastic calligraphy performed in blue and black ink.

#7. The Hebrew Saying in a Tattoo on the inner Biceps

This young woman looks absolutely gorgeous with her modern tattoo. The Hebrew saying is placed on the inner part of the arm, which can be almost invisible if you do not want to show it.

#8. The Geometric Hebrew Scripture Tattoo

The short, captivating Hebrew scripture leaves a refined mark on the hand. The geometric form of the symbols is the most startling point of this incredible tattoo.

#9. The Hebrew Symbol for Love on the Ankle

The life is impossible without love, and this small tattoo on the ankle graphically illustrates this idea. This Hebrew phrase is an ideal option for sincere and loving people.

#10. The Hebrew Tattoo With Quotes for Women

This Hebrew quote in blackwork design means “let go and know that I am God”. The soft ornament along the spine gently embellishes the woman’s back.

#11. The Hebrew Writing Tattoo on the Foot

This tattoo on both feet is something unforgettable! The sweet Hebrew lettering on one foot creates a wonderful composition with black floral pattern and the sun on the other.

#12. “I Am My Beloved…” in Hebrew Tattoo on the Neck

“I am my beloved and my beloved is mine” is a phrase from the “Song of Songs” in the Hebrew Bible. It can be interpreted as the female’s lover or the love the people of Israel have for God.

#13. The “Courage” and “Strength” in Hebrew Tattoo

If you want to have a lettering tattooed in Hebrew, consider this pattern on the forearm. It is translated as “courage and strength” and is a strong message for life.

#14. The “Life” in Hebrew Tattoo on the Wrist

Life – is the short but so significant notion written in Hebrew. This tattoo looks simple, but it will always motivate you never give up and take advantage of every opportunity that life gives you.

#15. The Cool Idea of Hebrew Tattoo for Girls

The word “Shalom” on the wrist is a famous form of greeting in the Hebrew language. Moreover, this subtle but very appealing tattoo symbolizes peace between two entities.

#16. The Hebrew Tattoo in Calligraphy on the Ribs

This tattoo presents intriguing blue symbols in the circle, which is difficult to read. In reality, this is Hebrew calligraphy tattoo, which looks like a game of abstraction and legibility.

#17. The Initials in Hebrew Tattoo on the Shoulder

The tattoo with a name of loved person is highly intimate. Here the initial in Hebrew denotes a common family name “Cohen” that seems especially attractive on the tender woman’s shoulder.

#18. The Hebrew Wrist Tattoo in Blackwork

If you wish to ink small but unique tattoo in an ancient language, then pay attention to this cute pattern on the wrist. The tattoo in blackwork represents lettering with captivating Hebrew script.

#19. The Attractive “Truth” Hebrew Tattoo Design

This fabulous tattoo on the forearm is a perfect way to show your religious beliefs. The word “truth” is written in Hebrew and is surrounded with the colorful ornament of flowers.

#20. Both Arms With Hebrew Tattoos

The idea to take the Hebrew tattoo on both arms seems very interesting. The lettering will emphasize you Jewish roots or a great interest in this culture.

#21. The Small Hebrew Tattoo on the Wrist

The “chesed” or “khesed” is the Hebrew word for loving kindness. Here the tiny tattoo on the wrist symbolizes the God’s endless and steadfast love.

#22. The “Faith” Hebrew Tattoo With a Rose on the Forearm

In spite of the fact that tattoos are forbidden in Judaism, this Hebrew phrase is really inspiring. In case lettering is too simple for you, you may add a marvelous rose image.

#23. The Hebrew Tattoo on Backbones for Girls

The lovely Hebrew phrase “I am my beloved’s, my beloved is mine” is often seen on wedding rings. But here it finds a new, trendy interpretation in the tattoo. You will look impressive with it for sure!

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