“Keep your fingers crossed” the mantra goes, and while it’s nearly impossible to decipher the exact origins of this oft-repeated gesture, there’s no denying the meaningful significance it carries to this day.

While many understand the gesture to be a way of imploring God for help or protection, theologists offer an extensive backstory to this popular expression, when early Christians would cross their fingers not only in the presence of perceived evil, but to recognize one another during the time of Roman persecution.

Today we take a more lighthearted approach to crossing our fingers, for good luck or a favorable outcome when the odds are seemingly stacked just a bit too high for comfort. For that reason the symbol of a hand with two fingers crossed has gone on to become a much-prized tattoo totem.

Often inked in antiquated etching-style black and white or faded tarot colors, the crossed fingers are generally around the arm and hand region (proximity is everything, right?).

Perhaps you are a man who likes to play against the odds and could use a little extra luck, or believe that with the right amount of faith we can all triumph against insurmountable obstacles. This is a tattoo for gamblers, risk-takers, and true believers in a higher power watching over us all. Additionally, a fingers crossed tattoo can be worn by one who is rooting for his fellow man, wishing him all the good fortune and protection he would want for himself.

Regardless of your intentions, there’s no mistaking the potent rewards reaped by this time-honored gesture.