Question: “Hi, I need an advice and I hope you can help me. I want to get a tattoo that symbolises Buddhism, because it helped me get through a really though time, but I don’t want it to be disrespectful of culturally appropriative. Could you help me find something that symbolises Buddhism that is okay to get tattooed? Thanks!”
I’m not for or against Buddha tattoos. I think if a tattoo truly symbolizes something special for you, then that’s fine and you should get it where you can see it everyday. This OKAY viewpoint with Buddha tattoos however is culturally specific, if that even makes sense. As in, in most countries a tattoo of the Buddha is accepted. However, in most Buddhist countries, especially Thailand, tattoos of the Buddha are forbidden and even illegal.
I think there are many ways to personally symbolize your gratitude to the Buddha or Buddhism that doesn’t include getting a tattoo. Maybe a small altar, a statue or stone, something that can be displayed daily in your home, vehicle, or workplace.
A sticky note with a few inspiring words or a doodle of the Buddha or lotus flower holds the same value as a Buddhist temple, statue, or image.
Smile and be well!
P.S. The image on this post is not of me.