Hello,
I am looking to get a tattoo and I was wondering about the translation of the word "strength". I would like it in standard Irish please. I was unsure if there was a feminine or masculine translation of the word. If so, I would like the feminine translation. To go along with my tattoo I was thinking about adding the dara knot. My research on the dara knot has said that it stands for strength, power, wisdom, and endurance. Do you guys know if this is correct, or do you know of any other Celtic knots that represent strength?
Thank you so much,
Kandra

First things first: Knots have no intrinsic meaning. They were invented by the monks to decorate illustrated manuscripts...that's it. If you like the look of the knot, use it by all means, but anyone who tells you it "stands for" anything is selling you a bill of goods.

"Strength" in Irish is Neart. It is grammatically masculine, but grammatical gender has nothing to do with actual sex...the same word is applied to both males and females.

Redwolf

I can't speak to the knots thing, but I'm sure Red is right about that. "Neart" is correct.

Yeah...unfortunately, jewelers, T-shirt vendors, and some religious groups make up all kinds of b.s. about Celtic knots.

Redwolf

Thank you! I didn't know about the knots. I was looking for something else to tie into the tattoo that representated strength. Do colors have meanings?

Kandra

No, not really. No more so than in any other culture.

I believe the wolfhound is sometimes used to symbolize bravery...perhaps something like that would suit?

Redwolf

Thanks! That is definitely something I will think about. You have been a lot of help!

Kandra