The history of tattoo art in Jordan is an interesting one. Tattoo art was declared illegal in the Kingdom of Jordan for the first time in the 1980s, and this illegal status remained until only a few years ago when it was finally decriminalized.
Before the 1980s, it was a rich tradition among the Bedouin tribes of Jordan. The practice is largely rooted in pre-Islamic times but persisted well into the 20th century despite religious disapproval.
The grandmothers of many Jordanians today still wear the marks of their heritage on their skin, with tattoos on their faces, chins, hands, and wrists.
Tattoos in Jordan Served Several Purposes for Men and Women
Tribal identification, beauty enhancement, health reasons (believed to have healing powers), and protection against evil spirits.
For example, instead of a wedding ring, a Bedouin woman wore a tattoo to mark that she was married.
Today, tattoo art is on a slow but steady rise in the Kingdom of Jordan.
As the heritage and history of Bedouin tattoo art meet the present techniques and standards of modern imported tattoo art, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional Bedouin tattoo art as part of a broader revival of cultural heritage. Younger generations and cultural historians are documenting and sometimes reviving these ancient practices to preserve Bedouin identity.
Bedouin tattoo art in Jordan is a testament to the Bedouin people’s rich cultural and social fabric.
Women’s tattoos, with their intricate designs and profound meanings, highlight aspects of beauty, protection, and identity. Men’s tattoos, though less decorative, emphasize strength and tribal affiliation. While the practice has waned, it remains an important cultural symbol, and efforts are underway to document and preserve this unique art form for future generations.
On your next visit to the Kingdom of Jordan, you might want to schedule some time in your itinerary to learn about the different Bedouin Jordanian tattoo designs and their meanings.
You might even want to get one as a travel souvenir: Beyond Postcards: Why a Tattoo is the Ultimate Souvenir from Jordan
My Experience Getting Inked in Jordan
Get a rad, sleek tattoo of iconic Petra landmarks or a unique Arabic/Nabatean design as a memento of your Jordan trip. Sip on a local wine or beer on the house to elevate your experience!
This activity is a hit with art history buffs, culture aficionados, and tattoo enthusiasts.
Step into a cutting-edge cyberpunk tattoo parlor at our Martian and Alien-themed space hub in Amman. Dive into the vibrant world of tattoo art in Jordanian Bedouin heritage and add a dash of beauty exploration to your travel plans.
Whether you’re in the market for a fresh tattoo or laser tattoo removal, our hub has got you covered. As a seasoned tattoo artist and certified laser expert, I’ll help you blend tradition and innovation in the Land of Time.
