Whatever the symbolism that the individual associates with the lunar body, the moon makes for great tattoos.  

11. Watercolor Unalome Tattoos

A growing trend in the tattoo world is the use of swaths of bright, vibrant ink to create the effect of watercolor paintings applied to the skin. This technique can create great tattoos that instantly catch the eye and the design possibilities in this style are endless. These pieces are especially successful when incorporated with black line work, and an unalome makes for a great addition to these striking tattoos. 

Unalome Tattoo FAQ’s

What does a Unalome tattoo symbolize?

In Buddhist tradition the unalome represents the path towards enlightenment that is each person’s duty and purpose on this physical plane. The swirls and twists in the design represent the trials and tribulations that we all face in everyday life, while the straight portion symbolizes the clarity and peace that is reached through enlightenment. Finally, the dots at the top of the piece signify the infinite nothingness that comes after death.  

These interesting shapes can also represent the different aspects of the male and female depending on which way the spirals face. Female unalomes face left while the male faces right. This orientation can also make for a more informed design concept when incorporating other elements into a unalome tattoo. These shapes should always be pointing up, as the path towards enlightenment moves the individual to a higher plane of existence.  

Are Unalomes disrespectful?

The unalome is a religious symbol and should be treated as such. In Buddhist countries using a sacred symbol like the unalome in profane ways, for advertising or other gratuitous purposes, would be considered very disrespectful. That being said, these are traditional elements in Sak Yant or sacred bamboo tattoos of South East Asia, so it is common to see them inked on people in the region—many monks even have these shapes tattooed on their bodies.