| Bears have grown to become very popular in | | | | some even as Gods. Their annual hibernation |
| tattoo art recently due to their broad and | | | | was an expression of the need for silence and |
| rich use in symbolism throughout history and | | | | self reflection. The quiet of the cave was a |
| culture. Around 500 BC, the bear was used by | | | | symbol of the quiet of the heart. |
| the Celts across Europe as a symbol to | | | | |
| represent war. In the Old Testament, this | | | | Another reason why these tattoos have such |
| magnificent creature was used to symbolize | | | | diverse meanings and designs is the diversity |
| evil influence and cruelty. In Christian | | | | amongst these creatures themselves. Bears |
| symbolism, they were viewed as a positive | | | | such as the Kodiak and Grizzly can be used to |
| representation of reform. In Ancient Greek | | | | symbolize immense strength, power, and |
| and Egypt, it was believed that the Great | | | | danger. Polar bears in tattoo designs are |
| She-Bear of the Ursa Major Constellation (The | | | | rare and unique. With the current crisis this |
| Big Dipper) was the incarnation of the great | | | | species is facing, a design incorporating |
| Goddess Diana or Artemis. | | | | this bear might be used to signify the last |
| | | | of a dying breed, to create awareness, or to |
| Bears have also been used extensively in | | | | symbolize hope. Other members of this family |
| Native American culture. For some tribes, | | | | include Black bears and Pandas. |
| they were used to symbolize battle, hunting, | | | | |
| and healing. For other tribes, this symbol | | | | For anyone considering a design with a Koala, |
| denoted the whirlwind which was used in times | | | | just remember that a Koala is not really a |
| of war to confuse ones enemies and for | | | | bear but actually a member of the marsupials. |
| medical and healing purposes. Some tribes | | | | Finally, there are "teddy bear" tattoos which |
| viewed them as supernatural creatures and | | | | symbolizes "cute" I think. |