98 Spiritually Engaging And Meaningful Back Tattoo Ideas For Men!
Amongst the series of options available for placement, it seems as though men tend to have eyes for either spacious locations, or private areas. However, one that offers both is a back tattoo.
While it requires a lot of planning and time, a back tattoo is a great canvas for individuals hoping to depict their own story, or experience character development while keeping things disclosed from the public.
Due to being perceived as an open canvas, back tattoos come in various forms. Give this guide a read to learn about them all.
Expressive And Powerful Back Tattoos For Men To Wear This Year!
@irezumidisciples
On a pain level, the back ranks somewhere in between the tattoo pain chart. And while the makings of a back tattoo comes with a hefty price tag, all the hard work pays off, just as long as you wear something meaningful.
From dragons to trees to even emblems representing religion, tons of illustrations can be depicted as a back tattoo. Skim through the entries below to learn about the ringleaders.
Dragon Back Tattoo: A Token Of Wisdom
@q.inktattoo
With a canvas larger than life back tattoos are seen as the hub for elaborate schemes. For those seeking wisdom, a dragon tattoo remains a ring leader.
The detailing on a dragon back tattoo is a selling point for those seeking the IT factor in their artwork. However, for those seeking wisdom, a dragon back tattoo offers the perfect room to grow privately.
The center is often the primary choice, with either sides of the back being seen as alternatives.
Angel Wings Tattoo On Back: Relieving Oneself From Past Regrets
@popotattoo
In order to grow from a mental and spiritual standpoint, you must feel free within, especially from past regrets and mistakes you’ve made.
Nonetheless, if the former poses an irreversible issue, an angel wing tattoo might just be a good way to free yourself from the weight of the past.
An angel wing tattoo on the back is quite sizable, almost depicting the real-life sizes of flappy wings to rescue one from the gravity of shame.
Japanese Back Tattoo: One Infused With Culture And Art
@lilb_wabori
Japanese culture runs big on back tattoos, seeing them as pivotal pieces once men enter maturity.
From blending artwork of koi fish to adding illustrations of samurais and dragons, a Japanese back tattoo gives one direct access to their journey in life so far.
Draped in traditional colors, the artwork is both painful and relatively expensive for investors to maintain.
Sword Back Tattoo: Surviving After Falling Victim To Betrayal
@vulgarartist
Betrayal is hands down one of the worst feelings in life. But in due time, even the pain of being deceived can be minimized and erased.
Sword tattoos serve a double meaning in the world of tattoos. Primarily associated with betrayal, sword tattoos also serve as emblems of protection against bad omen in the future.
While a sword on top of the spinal cord should suffice, you may even install a series of undersized swords as an alternative.
Cross On The Back Tattoo: Finding God
@tattedbyjustin916
Finding or rediscovering religion can work wonders if you're seeking spiritual enlightenment, being just as effective when seeking one's purpose in life.
That said, if it has been a while since you've prayed or spoken to God, a tattoo that might help is a Cross tattoo, known for rekindling one with their faith.
Similar to the former, it is easier to depict one Cross tattoo on the back. If you do want a higher volume, check out these three Cross tattoos!
Skull Tattoo On Back: Facing The Reality Of Death
@jakebowmantattooer
Accepting that death is inevitable is one way to live life without fear. In addition, acknowledging the former is also important to live a happier life.
A skull tattoo has long been known for its ties with death, educating one on the ticking time bomb otherwise known as life.
While skulls can be added almost anywhere, the back is a great way to showcase the details, preferably with the help of some blackwork elements.
Ace Back Tattoo: In Honor Of A Prominent Anime
@kaiokenpai
Character One Piece is definitely one of the biggest anime that doesn’t just win over fans with their characters and engaging plotlines, but also play a key role in the emergence of anime tattoos.
That said, after Luffy, a prominent character belonging to the anime is Ace, who not only encouraged people to
Eagle Back Tattoo: Striving For Independence
@maggiechotattoo
Similar to wings, eagles represent freedom, but from external factors as opposed to internal issues.
That said, an eagle back tattoo can be a great way to depict the species with realism, while having a companion that motivates you to fight for your rights.
While colors can be added, this artwork shines bright with neutral tones.
Lion Tattoo On Back: Finding Strength During Vulnerable Times
@fabrictattooz
If you're currently stuck between a rock and a hard place, know that nothing lasts forever.
However, if the pain being caused is too much for your mind to process, invest in art as opposed to partaking in retail therapy.
As always, a lion tattoo can be powerful enough to drag you out of the slump, given its association with mental resilience.
Snake Back Tattoo: Recovering In Silence
@______mr.blue_______
Healing from old wounds is a necessity if you want to live life to the fullest. Additionally, if you have feelings of regret that have been hindering your progress, perhaps it's time to think of a solution.
A quick fix can be found in a snake tattoo, which heals and provides a safe space to recover from unfortunate scenarios.
For men, a snake back tattoo can be a good way to overcome silent battles.
Grim Reaper Back Tattoo: One Day At A Time
@oldschoolbacktattoos
Life is temporary, so always make use of your time. Live as though everyday is your last, before the grim reaper shows up to collect your soul.
Moving on, believe it or not, but the grim reaper has often been a regular in the world of tattoos, not because of the fear it instills, but the motivation it provides to bring change.
A grim reaper back tattoo can be a good way for men to unlearn bad habits and take up good ones while they can.
American Traditional Back Tattoo: Loud And Proud
@oldschoolbacktattoos
Home is where the heart is. Therefore, love your country unconditionally.
That said, if you'd like to make your country a permanent part of your being, consider obtaining an American traditional back tattoo, comprising the national flag, along with prominent emblems.
It might take a while for the tattoo to reach completion, so have some patience. Don't give up.
Virgin Mary Back Tattoo: For Mother Figures
@osidesteve
If you've always been a momma's boy, now's not the time to hide it. Rather, now's the perfect time to wear it with no shame.
While matching tattoos can be a good way to go about things, you may even opt for a Virgin Mary tattoo as a back piece.
The former can be even better if you're a follower of Christianity.
Medusa Back Tattoo: A Lesson On Jealousy
@benluketattoos
While metaphorically extremely powerful, Medusa's portrait is one that is also visually enchanting, with intimidating components as well as soothing detailing.
That said, if you're a big fan of Greek mythology, a great way to stand out is to sign up for a back piece of none other than a Medusa tattoo.
Since the artwork might be painful and take a while to finish, consider breaking it down into multiple segments to deal with the soreness.
Samurai Back Tattoo: For Ultimate Warriors
@jeg_fisk
Being stuck between a rock and a hard place is definitely tough. However, if you ever need a companion when your back's against the wall, look into a samurai back tattoo.
A samurai back tattoo contains figurines of a samurai and his most prized possession, which would be the sword.
Though the artwork looks amazing, it's main agenda is to help men find toughness when fighting obstacles.
Tribal Back Tattoo: Showing Gratitude For Your People
@handofhopetattoo
Made with traditional instruments, tribal tattoos are essential for men who prioritize their loved ones.
With sharp patterns and hefty size, a tribal back tattoo can be a good way to find strength in your people, even when they're not around.
To find top-notch results in this tattoo, be sure to find an emblem that aligns with your purpose.
Jesus Back Tattoo: Blessed With The Power Of Christ
@gavinlyons88
Another way to become closer to God is to use the power of Christ, often found in a Jesus tattoo.
While wearing it in an exposed area is a good way to let everyone know about your faith, keeping it private through a back tattoo can be essential if you'd like some privacy.
Using traditional colors, this Jesus back tattoo stands out tremendously.
Tiger Tattoo On Back: Leaning Towards Family-Oriented Individuals
@jin_qchoi
Maintaining family ties is perhaps one of the biggest responsibilities that life throws at us.
That said, if you feel that your purpose in life is to take care of your roots, a tiger back tattoo might be appropriate for you.
Since signing up for a portrait of a tiger might look too empty, consider taking help from companions that either add to its emblem or frames that make this back tattoo stand out.
St Michael Back Tattoo: Protection Against Temptation
@codywilsontattoos
Temptation always pushes people to the brink, which can have tons of repercussions. At times, giving into temptation can also be life altering, with irreversible consequences.
For those struggling with temptations, especially one that feeds their bad habits, a St Michael tattoo can be a good illustration to pursue.
You may even add beads, preferably those that resemble a Rosary tattoo, to add to the final piece.
Tree On Back Tattoo: Finding Comfort In Growth
Growth is an essential part of life. And though the final chapter of development is beneficial, growing pains can be tough.
While dealing with the obstacles is necessary, you can always turn to a tree tattoo when times get hard.
To make it as philosophical as possible, consider the potential of wearing a back tattoo.
Aztec Back Tattoo: A Prized Possession for The People Of Mexico
@bloodline59th
If you already know about the Aztec Empire, you must be wary of how they contributed the most to bring the city of Mexico into existence.
The power they used to have isn't just a topic of discussion, but also seen as an admirable attribute for men to look up to, which brings Aztec back tattoos to life.
From helmets to figurines, an Aztec back tattoo offers various options to make their mark.
Demon Back Tattoo: Feeding Of Bad Energy
@jacktee_tattoos
The black sheep of this list is the demon back tattoo, made for those who find pleasure in the bad.
Featuring symbols that represent evil, a demon back tattoo is surely intimidating to look at.
That said, it also has jarring visuals, which explains its success among artists and tattoo enthusiasts.
Yakuza Back Tattoo: A New Beginning
While controversial, you can prepare for a Yakuza back tattoo as well, associated with loyalty and the controversial image of the Japanese Mafia.
Frowned upon by society for its ties to crime, a Yakuza back tattoo still feels promising, but due to the artistic components it carries.
Yakuza tattoos cover the entirety of the back and more, so clear your schedule for a professional to find outstanding results.
Chinese Back Tattoo: A Symbol Of Ancient Chinese History
@irezumiartist
Chinese back tattoos, much like Japanese tattoos, aren't exactly accepted by society, but are packed with cultural and ancient Chinese history, making men fond of the variant.
From koi fish tattoos to symbols, a Chinese back tattoo can bring out various kinds of energy levels.
That said, due to the coloring involved, Chinese back tattoos are expensive. To avoid setbacks, stay financially prepared.
Geometric Back Tattoo: Sharp Shapes And Angles
@hime_tattooer
Similar to Mandala tattoos, geometric patterns are all about sharp shapes and angles. They are also great for those seeking spiritual enlightenment.
That said, if you feel that you're lacking purpose, fight the urge and break free in private with a geometric back tattoo, curated with deep coloring and elaborate schemes.
If you feel alone, the artwork can be a great companion to rely on.
Owl Back Tattoo: A Taste Of Philosophy
@bodyofinkceo
Scorpion Back Tattoo: Retrieving Lost Confidence
@jobzy_tattoos
Spider Back Tattoo: The Connection Between Fate And Destiny
@kingofthehillstudio
Viking Back Tattoo: A Ritual For Ancient Scandinavians
@roselandtattoo
Wolf Back Tattoo: Contentment In Loneliness
@dime_reck
Gorilla Back Tattoo: Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger
@art.germanink
Gothic Back Tattoo: Enriched With Neutral Tones
@2furqie
Chakra Back Tattoo: Defending Your State Of Mind
@samtattooindia
Crow Back Tattoo: Rebelling Against Conformity
@oncle.jim.tattoo
Egyptian Back Tattoo: Designed For Creative Geniuses
@chrisp6.tattoo
Buddha Back Tattoo: Preaching Peace And Love
@1kc_tango
Bear Tattoo On Back: A Test Of One’s Tolerance To Pain
@justinnordinetattoos
Frequently Asked Question
Now that you've skimmed through all the options that make back tattoos so desirable in men's eyes, here are some questions that will surely help your cause if you too are planning to obtain a back tattoo.
Q: Why are back tattoos so desirable?
Ans: Back tattoos not only reward men with privacy, but also give them the creative freedom to depict almost anything and everything as the primary component, making them desirable and rather masculine in the world of art.
Q: How long does it take for back tattoos to recover?
Ans: Large back tattoos might take 2 to 6 months to recover, depending on the complexity of the artwork and the amount of coloring added. That said, if your tattoo still doesn't heal within the former timeframe, get in touch with your tattoo artist, since it might imply trouble.
Q: Are back tattoos painful?
Ans: The pain level involved in a back tattoo depends on the placement of the artwork. Upper back tattoos usually hurt less due to the high volume of muscle tissues in that region.
However, the midsection as well as the bottom half of a back tattoo might be painful, since they have a high bone to muscle ratio, alongside tons of nerve endings.
Final Verdict
All in all, back tattoos are not just art. They're also huge commitments to make. They not only test one's resilience, but also check in on one's loyalty; two traits that men naturally gravitate towards.
That said, a back tattoo is as open as a book, meaning, they can be about anything. However, for men in particular, back tattoos mostly revolve around strength, loyalty, companionship, and growth.
From illustrations of tigers to traditional Japanese artwork, a lot can be worn as a back tattoo. If you’re on board, give the former options a read.