San Judas tattoos are based on Saint Jude the Apostle who was a revered figure in Christianity. Saint Jude the Apostle’s original name was San Judas but it was later translated from Judas to Saint Jude so that one does not confuse him as Judas Iscariot (the apostle who betrayed Jesus).
Tattoos inspired by Saint Jude are widely popular in South America (especially in Mexico). San Judas tattoos gained huge popularity in the Hispanic community during the 20th century. This was linked to the exposure of underdeveloped Mexico to the developed nation of the United States. Among the 12 Apostles of Jesus, Judas Thaddeus is the most popular choice for tattoo design. This is because the revered figure is associated with many holy deeds in Bible.
San Judas Tattoos Meanings
You can choose your San Judas tattoo design from the photo gallery below but you must understand the meaning of this beautiful tattoo design. Here we brief you with some important character traits and symbolism that made Judas Thaddeus as revered Saint Jude –
Loyalty – Jude was a distant relative of Jesus. He was one of the first followers of Christ. He stayed with him till his crucifixion and later became an evangelizer. Jude never left Jesus’ side. Bible mentions Jude as the most loyal Apostle.
You can pick San Judas tattoo if you want to imply that you too are a loyal person who does not pick sides and stand by their friends throughout the thick and thin of life.
Evangelism – Even though many Christians cite the bible during arguments against tattoos yet you cannot neglect the fact that Christianity-themed tattoos have always been a part of body art. Rather one could say that tattoos have only spread the word of god in the whole world. Therefore, Evangelism is a perfect meaning for a Christian tattoo.
Saint Jude’s tattoo can also represent evangelism as he spent all his life spreading the words of Jesus and preaching to people about God as forgiving.
Martyrdom – Saint Jude was beheaded by Romans due to his advocacy of Christianity. Bible mentions that Judas Thaddeus accepted his fate wholeheartedly as he considered it as a blessing of God who considered him worthy enough to sacrifice for religion.
Many Soldiers and veterans pick the Saint Jude tattoo only because of this meaning.
Miracles – Mexican sub-culture is filled with tales and legends of Saint Jude Miracles. An online survey conducted by Buzzfeed confirmed that Saint Jude is the second saint after Jesus Christ to whom people pray in the hour of Vain.
Many Hispanic people have claimed that San Judas made their life easier after they devoted their lives to his cause. If you believe in miracles then this is the perfect tattoo choice for you.
Kindness – Saint Jude was often referred to as the kindest follower of Jesus. He would often feed poor people while staying hungry himself. There are many stories about How saint Jude helped others going as far as putting his health at stake.
If you are a kind person who believes that one should always have love and compassion for others then the Saint Jude tattoo is the perfect choice for you.
Saint Jude Tattoo Placement
San Judas tattoos need to be inked on the upper part of the body. A Portrait tattoo of a holy figure should always be on the upper part of the body. If you have picked a large size design then get it inked on the chest but if your design is medium in size then the bicep and forearm are perfect spots for it.
Also, you need to pick motifs in your San Judas tattoo. Many people choose different motifs to represent unique meanings. Most San Judas tattoos have him holding Medallion of Jesus Christ. This will represent his utmost loyalty.
You can use Staff to represent evangelism and Hatchet to represent his martyrdom. Here take a look at these 150+ San Judas Tattoos designs that will suit both men and women –
San Judas Tattoos Ideas
Saint Jude the Apostle Tattoo
Also read- Treble Clef Tattoo designs
San Judas Tadeo tattoo Small
San Judas Tattoos on Sleeve
Conclusion
San Judas tattoo are not just popular in hispanic culture but these designs have been loved by other cultures as well. Don’t forget to share this photo gallery of Saint Jude tattoo on Facebook and Pinterest.
References: Saint Jude Wiki