Aryan Brother Tattoos: A Deep Dive Into the Hidden Details

Aryan Brotherhood tattoos are far more than just ink; they represent membership, rank, beliefs, and a life lived within the confines of a brutal and highly structured prison gang. Understanding the symbolism behind these tattoos offers a chilling glimpse into the organization's ideology and internal hierarchy. This list delves into some of the most common and significant Aryan Brotherhood tattoos, exploring their meanings and offering insight into the world they represent.

1. Shamrock (Three-Leaf Clover): A Symbol of Brotherhood

While often associated with Irish heritage, within the Aryan Brotherhood, the shamrock typically signifies membership. The three leaves are often interpreted to represent "Blood In, Blood Out," the gang's unforgiving policy of lifetime commitment. This tattoo is a stark reminder that leaving the Brotherhood is rarely an option.

2. AB Initials: Overt Declaration of Allegiance

The initials "AB," often rendered in Old English or Gothic script, are the most straightforward and common identifier of Aryan Brotherhood affiliation. These initials are a public declaration of membership and loyalty, serving as a warning to rivals and a source of solidarity among fellow members. The font and placement can sometimes further denote specific factions or regions.

3. Swastika Variations: Embracing White Supremacy

The swastika, a symbol inextricably linked to Nazi ideology, is a frequent and disturbing sight on Aryan Brotherhood members. Its presence signifies the gang's commitment to white supremacy and racial purity. Variations in the swastika's design or surrounding imagery can sometimes indicate specific interpretations or levels of devotion to these hateful beliefs.

4. The Number 666: A Satanic Connection and Defiance

While often associated with the devil, the number 666 in Aryan Brotherhood tattoos carries a more nuanced meaning. It represents defiance against societal norms and a rejection of mainstream morality. This symbol reinforces the gang's outlaw status and their embrace of violence and criminal activity.

5. The Number 88: A Code for Nazi Salute

The number 88 is a coded reference to "Heil Hitler," as H is the eighth letter of the alphabet. This seemingly innocuous number serves as a discreet but unmistakable signal of adherence to Nazi ideology. Its presence underscores the white supremacist beliefs that are foundational to the Aryan Brotherhood's existence.

6. Confederate Flag: A Symbol of Racial Division

The Confederate flag, often considered a symbol of Southern heritage, is utilized by the Aryan Brotherhood to represent their commitment to white racial identity and the perceived superiority of the white race. Its inclusion in tattoos reinforces the gang's racist ideology and their opposition to racial equality.

7. Thor's Hammer (Mjölnir): Norse Mythology Misappropriated

While rooted in Norse mythology as a symbol of strength and protection, Thor's Hammer is frequently misappropriated by white supremacist groups, including the Aryan Brotherhood. It's used to represent power, resilience, and a connection to a perceived warrior heritage of the white race. This misuse of a historical symbol is a common tactic used to recruit and indoctrinate members.

8. Spiderweb Elbow Tattoo: Serving Time and Hardened Criminality

The spiderweb tattoo, particularly when located on the elbow, often signifies a significant amount of time served in prison. Each ring of the web can represent a year spent incarcerated. Its presence is a badge of honor within the Aryan Brotherhood, indicating a member's commitment to the gang and their willingness to endure hardship.

9. "Blood In, Blood Out" Phrases: Lifetime Commitment and Violence

Phrases such as "Blood In, Blood Out" or variations thereof, are common reminders of the gang's strict code of loyalty. They underscore the lifelong commitment required of members and the violent consequences of attempting to leave. These phrases serve as a constant threat and a powerful tool for maintaining control.

10. Specific Bird Imagery (Eagles, Ravens): Power and Ominous Intent

Certain bird imagery, particularly eagles and ravens, can hold specific meanings within the Aryan Brotherhood. Eagles often represent power, dominance, and freedom, albeit within the confines of the gang's structure. Ravens, on the other hand, are frequently associated with death, ill omen, and a connection to the darker aspects of the Brotherhood's activities. The specific style and context of these bird tattoos can further reveal their intended meaning.

Understanding the intricate symbolism behind Aryan Brotherhood tattoos is crucial for law enforcement, researchers, and anyone seeking to comprehend the inner workings of this dangerous organization. These tattoos are not merely decorative; they are a language of violence, loyalty, and hate, etched onto the skin of those who have pledged their lives to a twisted and destructive ideology. They serve as a constant reminder of the gang's presence and the threat they pose to society.