Most commonly the phrase “As Above, So Below” means that what happens on one level also happens on every other level; the microcosm (small bits that you see) and macrocosm (big bits and the unseen) behave alike.
The concept of “As Above, So Below” was first laid out in the Emerald Tablet of Hermes Trismegistus: “That which is Below corresponds to that which is Above, and that which is Above, corresponds to that which is Below, to accomplish the miracles of the One Thing.”
“As Above, So Below” is a concept linked to Christianity, as well as the Occult, and other alternative religions such as Sacred Geometry and Wicca, with the Tree of Life being a particularly popular symbol linked to the phrase and used in tattoos.
The following gallery lays out an awesome array of “As above, So Below” tattoo ideas that can help you find inspiration for use in your next tattoo.
1. As Above So Below and Geometry
2. Upper Arm Tattoo Ideas
3. Back Tattoos
4. Heavy Black Ink
5. Chest and Side Tattoos
6. As Above So Below Forearm Tattoos
Source: @sarahwalsworthtattoo via Instagram
7. As Above So Below featuring Hand Symblism
Source: @discohopskotch via Instagram
8. As Above So Below Tattoo Lettering
9. Small Tattoo Designs
10. Black and Gray Tattoo Designs
11. Wrist Tattoos
FAQs
What does “As above, so below” tattoo mean symbolically?
What happens on one level of reality also happens on every other level; the microcosm (small bits) and macrocosm (big bits) behave alike.
In Christianity, as above so below features in the Lords Hymn as “On earth as it is in heaven.”
In Wicca, the phrase “As above, so below refers to “The principle of correspondence.”
It’s also used in the wider occult and principles of sacred geometry regarding balance, repetition and harmony.
Why do “As above, so below” tattoos feature the tree of life?
A Tree of Life tattoo reflects similar principles to “as above, so below.” These tattoo designs represent the interconnection between all life, and that all knowledge, hope, life, and love come from the same source in mirror image.
The Tree of Life is one of those tattoo design ideas that permeates folklore cultures regardless of its origin. It’s an ancient symbol that has reached through multiple cultures, religions, and philosophies.
Where did the concept of “As Above, so below” originate?
The concept of As Above, So Below was first laid out in the Emerald Tablet of Hermes Trismegistus: “That which is Below corresponds to that which is Above, and that which is Above, corresponds to that which is Below, to accomplish the miracles of the One Thing.”
What is sacred geometry and why is it popular in tattoos?
Geometry is the perfect inspiration for a tattoo. Something about mathematical symmetry that captures the eye and satisfies an inner desire for perfection.
Sacred geometry attributes sacred meanings to geometric shapes.
Spiritual in their meaning, many of the patterns are found in nature and are linked to holistic practices used by shamans and monks over the ages.
You’ll discover sacred geometry in more than just churches, temples and monuments. It’s everywhere – from pinecones to diamonds, snowflakes and more, and thy make for great tattoo designs.