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It can also indicate that you admire, respect or aspire to certain aspects of the philosophy. For this reason, it’s believed that only a true Zen master who’s achieved satori can draw a perfect (not mathematically perfect) ENSO.Īn ENSO tattoo, first and foremost, typically identifies the wearer as a practitioner of Zen Buddhism. The imperfections are to be valued, and the way in which it is drawn is believed to reflect a practitioners’ own current state of enlightenment. The circle can be left open, indicating room to grow, or closed, symbolizing a state of pure enlightenment, whether current or something the practitioner aspires to achieve.ĮNSO circles are first meditated upon, then drawn – traditionally with ink, brush and washi paper – in a single stroke. The ENSO is a meditative tool, as well as a way to gauge one’s own enlightenment from day to day. Those truly enlightened are though to be above mortal coils such as culture or morality.Īchieving this state is achieved through, among others, meditation. The ultimate goal is satori, a Japanese word meaning enlightenment. Zen Buddhism in places heavy emphasis on meditation. It is a lifestyle or philosophy, not a religion. This practice, now most commonly associated with Japan, was originally brought to China by an Indian monk. In order to understand ENSO, it’s first important to understand Zen Buddhism.
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Consider koi fish, traditional artwork and Japanese language characters. Since Zen Buddhism is associated with and primarily practiced today in Japan, it only makes sense to add a few Japanese-inspired elements to your ENSO tattoo. If you want to quietly pay homage to your philosophy, feel free to put your new artwork in a spot that’s easily covered by clothing. On the not-so-traditional side, the ENSO also happens to be a symbol which looks exceptionally cool when done in minimalist style! ENSO tattoo placement is critical when minimalist design is involved – if you want to show off, consider a prominent spot. There are many who would say that a minimalist ENSO tattoo is the most historically faithful way to go. It ’ s true that Zen is all about minimalism, favoring personal, internal growth over “things.” Due to this philosophy, those who want to stick close to the roots of the ENSO will find a minimalist approach to be a very accurate choice. ENSO tattoo chest placements face the same issues. If your shoulder tattoo will extend over your collarbone, keep in mind that tattoos on skin close to the bone can be more painful than others in meatier areas. The most important aspect is what it means to you. Shoulder ENSOs can be large or small, blackwork or loaded with color. It can symbolize the ENSO being close to your heart, or it might just be a great, visible way to show off your new ink. NSO tattoo shoulder placement is very bold. You might also choose a color with more modern meanings, such as red for power or blue for serenity, or draw on color element significance, including wood, earth, fire, air, metal and water.
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In Buddhism, the colors blue, white, red, green and yellow all correspond to a specific Buddha – pick the one which resonates with you.
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You may also choose a color which is important to you. You might choose a colorful background design to bring your ancient symbol into the modern world, such as watercolor. Color ENSO TattoosĪlthough typical Japanese cal l igraphy brushstrokes were black, there’s no need to shy away from color. Stay true to your own beliefs while respecting others of the same philosophy – it can be tricky, but it can always be done! 2. While your tattoo is yours and yours alone, keep in mind that some would find it disrespectful to include a silly, cartoonish image alongside one as revered as the ENSO. Be sure to find a tattooist skilled in bold lines and, if possible, the recreation of brushwork. Although the ENSO itself is a relatively simple shape, its execution – on paper or skin – are paramount to its meeting. However you choose to go about customizing your tattoo, remember that technique matters. You might choose to incorporate a design into the ENSO itself, or simply embellish the background. For this reason, they’re ideal places to showcase other images which mean a lot to you. ENSO tattoos represent a great deal about you and how you see the world.
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