Evolutionary biologist J.B.S. Haldane was one of the pre-eminent scholars in the field of evolutionary genetics and the mathematical formulas inherent in genetic mutations through multiple generations. When a Clergyman asked Haldane what could be inferred about the mind of the Creator from the works of Creation, Haldane famously replied, "He seems to have an inordinate fondness for beetles". Over forty percent of all described insect species are beetles - numbering some 350,000 species. Estimates put the total number of species, described and un-described, at between 5 and 8 million. The number of beetle species is more than six times the number of all vertebrate species combined.
During the time of the Egyptians, stone-carved scarabs were used as magical amulets and protective talismans to aide its wearer with the power of "eternal renewal of life." Scarabs were also employed as talismans and royal seals. The winged scarab was used in Egyptian funeral rites. When the long linen strips covering mummies have been unwrapped, many small charms and amulets have been uncovered. Foremost among them have been sacred Scarab beetles.
As tattoo designs, Scarab Beetles are symbols of the cycle and power of the sun, of resurrection and the after-life. They are lucky amulets for protection and will help guide one successfully into the afterlife. Scarab Beetles are often shown with falcons wings, and these special Scarabs ensured that an individual would be able to persuade Osiris to let them into the Afterlife regardless of what they might have done that was less than virtuous in life. So a Scarab Beetle tattoo is like a "Get Out of Jail Free" card when it comes to the hereafter!
See also: Insect Tattoo Index, Egyptian Tattoo Index
