Tattoos and other body marks can have a variety of meanings for various individuals. In certain parts of the world, something that is cherished could be seen as improper; in other places, a symbol or work of art that holds great significance might be seen as meaningless squiggles. I think it’s reasonable to say that, for as long as we have been as a species, individuals have expressed themselves and shared ideas through their physical appearance. Tattoos and other body marks can have a variety of meanings for various individuals.

While some designs may represent small regrets from one’s youth, others may have bigger meanings—telling stories or adhering to traditions, for instance. I don’t know about you, but whenever I see the same tattoo on several individuals, it always fascinates me. That is to say, the significance of the tattoo and the reasons the owner thought it was so vital to have it visible for the rest of their lives immediately enthrall me. The so-called “red string of fate” is one that I have seen often over the years but have never taken the time to investigate.
While some of our readers will undoubtedly recognize the little red tattoo, it is unlikely that many of those who have seen it previously will understand its symbolic meaning. Yes, I did mention that I had seen a few people with the tattoo. More than enough to detect a pattern, for sure. This mark had to be implying something, even if I had no concept of what it meant.

After doing some research online, I discovered that the red thread tattoo in the article is referred to in Asian cultures as the “red string of fate.” Typically observed on the thumbs of males and the pinky fingers of women, the tattoo has a simple bow-like pattern with tails that resemble a knotted shoelace.
The significance of this little tattoo is based on desire and hope. The story is said to be based on a Chinese folktale about a matchmaker who predicts the mates that each of us will eventually meet. The belief that one is destined to cross paths with someone else is not exclusive to romantic pursuits, nor is the concept of an unseen bond with another individual culturally specific; rather, it exists in almost every one of them.
The red string of fate says that two individuals are destined to be lovers, no matter where they are, when they are, or what occurs. Some people find comfort in that idea. Others, perhaps, would much rather control their destiny.