.Beyond its spiritual connotations, the three dots also function as a marker of loyalty among criminals, acting as a form of recognition both inside and outside the prison system. For those who bear it, the tattoo signifies a bond to a life of secrecy and solidarity.
Another interpretation focuses on the number of dots in the tattoo, which can symbolize the length of an individual’s time served in prison. The more dots there are, the longer the person’s sentence. This variation serves as a personal reminder of their past and the trials they have endured during their incarceration.
Social Stigma and Discrimination
While these tattoos carry deep meaning within the prison system, they can also lead to stigmatization and discrimination outside of it. For former inmates, the presence of such tattoos may lead to societal judgment, making reintegration into normal life challenging. Finding stable employment and establishing relationships can become difficult, as these tattoos often signal a troubled past in the eyes of the general public.
The Dark Side of the Three-Dot Tattoo
While the three-dot tattoo may carry symbolic meanings of loyalty and secrecy, it also has a darker side. In some instances, criminal organizations use the tattoo as a way to mark their members, signaling affiliation with a specific group. When used in this context, the tattoo can serve as a warning or even a threat to outsiders, marking its wearer as someone connected to a dangerous or violent network.
