Baphomet is an ancient monument shrouded in dark undertones having become synonymous with the devil and satanism but has a much more complex meaning
If you are looking for a tattoo design that is mysterious and attention grabbing, then read on to learn more about the dark history of this symbolic idol
There are always two sides to every story, and this mystical creature has dual meanings behind its appearance beginning in the times of the crusades
The artists at ALL DAY Tattoo studio in Bangkok, can help you craft a Baphomet piece that speaks to you and will be the talk of the town
The first recorded appearance of Baphomet dates back to 1098 during the first crusade
Stemming from eye-witness accounts written about the Siege of Antioch
The Count of Ostrevant and Valenciennes, Anselm Ribemont, wrote that “The Turks called loudly upon the name of Baphomet in the heat of battle.”
Some claim that Baphomet was mistranscribed, and it was actually supposed to be “Mohomet” an archaic version of the French word for Muhammad, the founder of Islam
It was then that this deity of a winged man with the head of a goat made his debut into the history books as a pagan idol
The Knights Templar were a medieval Catholic military order and the most skilled fighting units of the crusades
It is said that the Templars amassed great wealth and power, quite possibly triggering their persecution and downfall
Support for the Order faded when the Holy Land was lost, and distrust was sowed amongst the Church regarding their secret rituals and rumored worship of idols.
King Philip IV of France, who was deeply indebted to the Order, used this distrust to destroy the Templars and eliminate his debt.
He accused the Knights of idolatry, heresy, and a host of other transgressions.
The Templars were arrested, ruthlessly tortured into giving false confessions, and subsequently burned at the stake.
What did Baphomet mean to the Knights Templar?
One thing is for sure, the Templars did not associate Baphomet with Satan or the worship of the devil
Baphomet did not take on the Satanic connotations until sometime in the mid 20th century
Well after the usage of this figure head in Eliphas Levi’s infamous drawing of the idol from his publication of “Dogma and Rituals of High Magic”
In this publication, Levi goes into great depth of the symbolism behind the imagery of the “Sabbatic Goat,” or Baphomet
The goat head has an image of a pentagram on its forehead with the point at the top
This is a symbol of light
The two hands form the sign of occultism
With one hand pointing up to the white moon called the “Chesed.”
While the other hand is pointing down to the black moon called “Geburah.”
This is representative of the perfect harmony between mercy and justice
In addition, both arms represent balance as one is male and the other is female
The “Flame of Intelligence,” sits between the horns and is the magic light that is symbolic of universal balance
The flame representing the soul elevated above matter, while still being tied to it but yet shining above it
The head also stands for the horror of the sinner with its material actions causing the soul to be exclusively responsible for bearing the punishment
As the soul can only suffer when it materializes
The rod standing erect in place of the genitals is symbolic of eternal life
The body covered with scales represents water
The semi-circle above represents the atmosphere and the feathers are a symbol of volatility
Humanity is represented by the two breasts and the androgyne arms of the Sphinx of the occult sciences
Baphomet’s history and meaning spans back to a time in history before it was a symbol synonymous with the devil
Prior to this time, it was a symbol that held significance in many religions such as Islam, Gnosticism, and Sectarianism
It is now up to you to decide what meaning Baphomet holds for you and your tattoo journey!
Baphomet tattoos are versatile and can run the full gamut of tattoo styles depending on your particular fancy
If you are looking for a large back piece, this design can look amazing in color or black and grey and can pack a punch with details on this larger area
If you prefer something more simplistic, then a small tarot card design with minimal lines may be the option for you
If you are interested in starting a sleeve or medium size piece, Baphomet can be a great focal point for your new design
Whatever route your tattoo journey takes you on, let the world class artists at ALL DAY Tattoo studio in Bangkok, lead you down the right path
Let us accommodate you with 5-star service and a smile
When you step through our door, you will soon realize that this is not just a job for us, this is our passion!
The level of care and work you will receive will be hard to match going forward, and we take pride in each step of the process so you will never feel rushed or hurried into making a decision
ALL DAY Tattoo studio is easily accessible in the heart of Sukhumvit
We are Bangkok’s #1 fully licensed studio in the capital
Our studio is a modern, hip, and ultra-hygienic environment
We only use the highest quality USA-imported inks and single use disposable needles
We have the best world renown and award-winning artists
Our highly experienced team speaks fluent English and can ensure that every detail of your new tattoo is flawless and exactly what you want
There is a reason that ALL DAY TATTOO STUDIO is consistently rated the best studio in Bangkok
We provide a personal tattoo experience that is unparalleled!
Stop in and let us knock your socks off !!!
