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