Why do the triads want tattoos

There are three main aspects to analyze:

1. Ancient Penalties Some ancient civilizations, in order to allow people to notice some of the bad prisoners, will be branded on these prisoners with a special mark, this tattoo is in fact a part of the criminal law ("Water Margin" inside there is a similar portrayal). This creates a negative image of tattoos, which gradually turns into a natural association with criminals. Instead, it is seen as a sign of identity by those on the fringes of the law.

2, the test of courage Because tattoos and pain are always related, tattoos are seen as a sign of courage. Not afraid of pain for the triads, should be regarded as a necessary quality. And the pain caused by a tattoo can be recognized by fellow gang members. In triad gangs, sometimes tattoos are, generally speaking, part of the initiation test.

3, totem worship belongs to a primitive tradition, tattooed people believe that from a certain pattern or symbols to obtain power (similar to the left blue dragon right white tiger, the old bull in the waist that nature of the thing), which makes the underworld this insecure group will have some kind of psychological solace. And more importantly, when a group of people have the same totem system to divide the hierarchy, they have a kind of legitimacy to unite together. This has to be a great benefit to the stability of the triad organization.