Do Triad Tattoo Their Members?

Triad tattoos, originating in 17th-century China, are a complex hierarchy and strict code of conduct marked by symbols etched into the skin of its members. These tattoos serve as a visual language, conveying messages about one’s allegiance, skills, and achievements within the criminal underworld. There are currently four major Triads in existence: Wo Hop To, Wo Shing Wo, Sun Yee On, 14K (Sap Sie Kie), and Luen.

Tattoos were originally reserved for sailors and members of Chinese criminal organizations, who would mark themselves with dragons, phoenixes, and gods in traditional black line-work to show their identity. Tattoos are a taboo and were used as a punishment for crimes, leading to little documentation. However, after the Korean and Vietnam wars, tattooers began working more with triads, with only a “大佬” or “boss” being allowed to get tattooed.

Today, triads tend not to get inked, and if they do, it is often cheaper in the mainland. Each triad clan has distinctive designs, but Ng declines to go into detail about only the most classic. General tattoos were eagles, dragons, and tigers.

Tattooing is not part of the initiation into crime groups today, and some organizations use these tattoos as a story of that person. Some organized crime members use tattoos as a rank. A criminologist has sought to correct the belief that tattoos alone cannot be used as proof of gang membership.

A triad is a Chinese transnational organized crime syndicate based in Greater China with outposts in various countries with significant overseas Chinese influence. When a triad member was a member, their hair was dyed gold, they showed off scorpion tattoos, and they wore flared jeans with holes. The meaning and histories of criminal tattoos vary from country to country, and they are commonly assumed to be associated with gang membership.

What Does A 3 Dots Tattoo On The Finger Mean?

The three dots tattoo, widely recognized as representing "Mi Vida Loca" or "my crazy life", is a prevalent prison tattoo symbolizing the gang lifestyle rather than a specific gang affiliation. Typically placed on hands or around the eyes, this tattoo can carry diverse interpretations across cultures. Commonly, it is associated with the three stages of life: birth, life, and death, signifying the struggles one faces throughout their journey.

On the hand, the three dots may symbolize an unfinished life journey. Arranging the dots in a triangular pattern can also represent the Holy Trinity or signify balance between body, mind, and spirit. The tattoo’s simplicity belies its rich symbolism, and it can be prominently displayed on various parts of the body, such as fingers, wrists, or the neck, each location carrying its own significance.

Among criminals and those linked to the underworld, the tattoo serves as a significant emblem. Its meaning has evolved over time and can communicate a range of messages, including the unsaid aspects of life, or what is left unexpressed. The three dots can also symbolize personal transformations, where individuals express their intentions to move forward after facing adversities.

Celebrities like Ice Cube have popularized this tattoo, showcasing its connection to personal history and the acknowledgment of past hardships. Understanding a three dots tattoo’s meanings is crucial before getting one, prompting individuals to consider the implications of their choice, including the tattoo artist’s skills and design.

In Christian contexts, the tattoo can also be seen as a homage to the Holy Spirit, affirming its spiritual dimension. Furthermore, the triangular formation has been associated with Whang Od, a revered tattoo artist, representing generations of artistry passed through blood-related apprentices.

In summary, the three dots tattoo embodies a multitude of themes linked to life's journey, struggles, spiritual beliefs, and self-expression, reflecting both personal and communal narratives within various cultural contexts.

What Do Triads Look Like?

A triad comprises three notes arranged in consecutive thirds, commonly referred to as a chord and harmony. The lowest note in a triad is known as the root. Triads consist of three notes positioned vertically: the root (bottom note), the 3rd (middle note), and the 5th (top note). Understanding how to build a basic music triad requires knowledge of music notation and the alphabet. Triads are essential to music theory, composition, experimentation, and improvisation, forming the foundational chords in Western music.

In musical terms, a triad can be defined as a collection of three notes or "pitch classes" that are stacked in thirds. This article will cover the three basic types of triads – their definitions, origins, characteristics, and sound profiles. Triads are identified by their root, quality, and inversion. While a chord may involve three or more notes played simultaneously, this discussion focuses specifically on triads.

The article will decode the four qualities of triads found in major and minor scales, which feature distinct interval patterns. These include the major triad, characterized by a major third and a perfect fifth above the root; the minor triad, which has a minor third and a perfect fifth; the diminished triad, comprising a minor third and a diminished fifth; and the augmented triad, featuring a major third and an augmented fifth.

Triads can be arranged by stacking their notes so they align on either all lines or all spaces in a musical staff. Furthermore, the article will provide insights into guitar triads, displaying their formations on the fretboard. The four principal triad types—Major, Minor, Augmented, and Diminished—serve as the building blocks for many musical chords. Understanding their characteristics and how to utilize these triads is crucial for musicians seeking to enhance their harmony and chordal skills.

In summary, a triad is a three-note chord formed by stacking notes in thirds, serving as the cornerstone of Western music’s harmonic structure.

What Disease Does Tozawa Have In Tokyo Vice?

In Tokyo Vice Season 2, Tozawa, a fictional yakuza leader, makes a sudden return, revealing his ongoing medical treatment for liver disease, commonly referred to as the "Illness of the Trade." This condition, prevalent among yakuza due to excessive alcohol consumption, poses serious health risks. His character draws inspiration from Tadamasa Goto, a notorious yakuza figure who underwent a liver transplant at UCLA in 2008 due to a similar condition. Throughout Season 2, Tozawa experiences mysterious health issues known only to his doctors and mistress, prompting speculation about the nature of his illness.

Fans have engaged in discussions about Tozawa's enigmatic condition, with many believing it could be liver cirrhosis or another life-threatening ailment linked to alcohol abuse and hepatitis C, stemming from yakuza lifestyle factors such as tattooing and intravenous drug use. As the season progresses, Tozawa's situation becomes increasingly precarious, culminating in an expectation of a liver transplant, which he reportedly sought outside of Japan, explaining his absence during earlier episodes.

The narrative explores the implications of Tozawa's health on his leadership within the yakuza and the challenges he faces due to his deteriorating condition. While Jake Adelstein, a reporter obsessed with yakuza culture, brings attention to Tozawa's illness, the show's creators provide insight into the dark realities faced by members of this criminal organization.

The season finale builds tension around Tozawa's fate, as he contemplates his risky decisions and their potential fatal consequences. Despite undergoing a transplant, his health remains ambiguous, leading to debates among fans regarding the full extent of his suffering. The series accentuates the dangers inherent to the yakuza way of life, particularly focusing on the devastating impact of alcohol and associated diseases.

Ultimately, the character's journey reflects broader themes of mortality, power dynamics within the yakuza, and the societal implications of addiction, all encapsulated in the dramatic storytelling of Tokyo Vice. Tozawa's tragic end is hinted at, as the pressures surrounding him intensify, showcasing the brutal realities of life within the yakuza.

Do Triads Have Tattoos?

The real-life Triads possess a rich tattoo culture akin to that of the Yakuza, with tattoos often designed to remain concealed beneath clothing. Dragons frequently feature in these tattoos, a motif so prevalent it's almost cliché. Tattoo artist Ng states, "For sure, I've tattooed triads – I tattoo everyone," although he notes that fewer triads are opting for tattoos today, and when they do, it's often in mainland China where costs are lower. Each Triad clan has unique designs, but Ng refrains from disclosing specifics.

While anyone can acquire a triad tattoo if they are drawn to its symbolism, it's critical to grasp the underlying cultural significance and historical context prior to making it permanent. Dragons, powerful creatures in Chinese mythology, symbolize a rich tradition of loyalty, honor, and brotherhood within these tattoos. Each tattoo design embodies this tradition, representing different meanings pertinent to the wearer.

Interestingly, as the trend shifts, the prevalence of tattoos among triads mirrors that of Japanese Yakuza members, with fewer individuals seeking body ink. For those who do, they commonly choose to have them done in mainland China due to affordability. Historically, Triads were known to have numerous expensive tattoos resulting from their engagement in lucrative underground ventures. However, many prominent members nowadays may avoid tattoos altogether to evade law enforcement scrutiny.

The popularity of triad tattoos is on the rise, fusing street credibility with art. Yet, the secretive nature of Chinese Triads has resulted in the development of unique symbols and meanings depicted in their tattoos. While some lower-ranking members display these tattoos for bravado, many gang leaders intentionally refrain from inking to maintain a low profile. Overall, these tattoos have transformed from mere symbols of gang affiliation to represent complex cultural narratives.

What Is A Triad Initiation Ceremony?

The Triad initiation ceremony is a secretive and ritualized process integral to the organization, similar in nature to other criminal groups like the Indian thuggees and Japanese yakuza. These ceremonies typically take place at an altar dedicated to Guan Yu, featuring elements like incense smoke and the sacrifice of a domestic animal such as a chicken, pig, or goat. The initiation process involves the candidate drinking a mixture of blood and wine, reciting the group's oaths while passing beneath an arch of swords, and culminating in the burning of the oath paper on the altar to solidify the commitment.

The performance of these initiation rites is explored in detail, with the first half of related literature focusing on the rituals and the second half on the mythology and lore that surrounds these practices. The ceremonial journey usually begins with an entrance through a gate of swords, signifying the candidate's transition into the group.

Historically, triads have roots stretching back to 17th-century China, with modern manifestations creeping into various facets of life in places like Hong Kong. Recently, a police raid revealed a rare occurrence of a traditional triad initiation in the city, highlighting ongoing issues with organized crime and the adaptability of these groups in contemporary society. The anti-triad legislation in Hong Kong reflects an evolving landscape of organized crime, which has transformed over the years.

The Triads have developed an elaborate system of degrees, including numbered and unnumbered levels, marking members’ progression within the organization. The initiation ceremony is not just a personal milestone but a significant societal event imbued with cultural significance, often likened to a metaphorical journey of the soul through realms shaped by the narratives of the Triads.

Ritual paraphernalia such as pennants, flags, and other symbols augment the colorful and dramatic nature of these ceremonies, steeped in tradition and myth. The duration of the initiation event typically lasts around two hours, allowing a thorough engagement with the historical foundations of these societies, starting from earlier groups like the White Lotus. Ultimately, the process is about establishing an identity and commitment to the values and codes associated with the Triad organization.

How Many Triads Are There?

The Triad is a transnational criminal organization originating from secret societies in China, primarily Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore. Four major Triads—Wo Hop To, Wo Shing Wo, Sun Yee On, and 14K (Sap Sie Kie) along with Luen—are prominent today. Wo Hop To, specifically, has known influences beyond Hong Kong, documented even in San Francisco. These groups, known as the most significant organized crime syndicates in China, engage in illicit activities such as smuggling, trafficking, gambling, extortion, and corruption.

The term "triad" also refers to a musical construct. In music theory, a triad is a group of three notes that are stacked vertically in intervals of thirds, forming the most common chord types in Western music. The four fundamental types of musical triads are Major, Minor, Augmented, and Diminished. Major triads contain a major third, while minor triads include a minor third; both are created by layering two third intervals on top of one another. Additionally, there are variations in how these triads can be voiced, leading to different chord shapes on instruments such as the guitar.

Triads in music have significant theoretical importance as every major and minor scale consists of specific diatonic triads derived from its notes. Each scale can generate seven distinct triads, contributing to a total of around 19 possible triads when not considering inversions in a 12-tone equal temperament system. Understanding these relationships is essential for mastering harmony and chord progressions.

Meanwhile, the Triads as criminal organizations are structured hierarchically, with a strict chain of command. Approximately 50 groups exist today, with 14 in police surveillance due to their activities. The contrasting meanings of "triad" highlight the complexity behind both the organized crime entities in East Asia and the musical terminology central to Western music theory. In both fields, the concept of triads serves as a foundation for broader understanding—be it in societal influence or musical expression.

What Did Triads Do In The 20Th Century?

In the 20th century, triads were utilized by the Kuomintang (KMT) during the Republican era for political violence, including assassinations. Following the establishment of the People's Republic of China, heavy crackdowns led to the proliferation of triads in regions like Macau, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese communities. A triad, or 三合會 in Chinese, is an organized crime syndicate primarily composed of Chinese members, with roots tracing back to secret societies in Mainland China and later developing into transnational networks that extend across countries with significant Chinese populations.

By the mid-20th century, the Hung Mun, a notable triad, fragmented into numerous smaller gangs throughout China. The emergence of the Chinese Communist Party in 1949 marked a pivotal moment, influencing triad activities. This analysis delves into the history and political violence associated with triads in Hong Kong, drawing on archival documents, media reports, and interviews with members.

Originating in the 17th century during the Qing Dynasty, triads initially sought to restore the Ming Dynasty. Over time, their activities diversified, playing roles in human trafficking, drug smuggling, and other illicit trades between the mainland and Hong Kong. The global Chinese diaspora in the 20th century further expanded their influence, allowing triad factions to establish strongholds in places as diverse as Holland, Malaysia, Australia, and the United States.

While triads began as a patriotic movement, they evolved into criminal enterprises engaging in extortion, gambling, and drug trafficking. Their decentralized nature features intricate structures that encompass various roles, including financial management and enforcement. Historical accounts indicate that triads have intrigued filmmakers and writers, inspiring countless narratives. In response to rising concerns over their influence, colonial authorities enacted laws such as the Societies Ordinance in 1889, aimed at curbing triad activities. Despite such efforts, triads have shown remarkable resilience and adaptability within the underworld.

Do Bloods Have Tattoos?

Bloods Gang tattoos are prevalent symbols of membership and identity for members of this notorious street gang, originally established in Los Angeles. These tattoos serve various purposes, such as indicating rank, the duration of membership, and specific crimes committed. Common tattoo designs among Bloods include the word "blood," five-pointed stars, crowns, pit bulls, tear drops, and dog paws. These tattoos are not only permanent expressions of allegiance but also act as walking logos that signify belonging to the Bloods.

Members typically display their loyalty and affiliation through a combination of indicators, including colors—red being the primary color—alongside clothing, symbols, jewelry, graffiti, language, and hand signals. Sportswear, particularly featuring red accents, is a popular choice among Bloods members. The depiction of specific symbols, such as teardrops and the letter "B," is prevalent among these tattoos, often elaborately designed.

One of the most recognized tattoos within the gang is the dog paw, also known as "triple o's," which is commonly acquired at the time of initiation. This tattoo may consist of three circular burn marks that come from the heated barrel of a gun, forming a triangle shape on the skin. Other tattoos signify different meanings within the Bloods' culture, including symbols like crowns and various forms of MOB (Member of Blood), indicating a deeper commitment to the gang's ethos.

Tattooing as an art form within the gang denotes not just personal history but also collective identity, encompassing deeds performed and rank attained. Unique identifiers, such as physical markings and specialized ink designs, provide a sense of pride and belonging among members. Different tattoos can communicate details about geographic affiliation, past achievements, and status within the gang hierarchy.

Blood tattoos exemplify the cultural significance of ink in gang life, serving as markers of loyalty, strength, and unity. While not every tattoo necessarily denotes criminal activity, they often symbolize the intricate ties that bind gang members and signify their ongoing commitment to the Bloods. This intricate language of tattoos and symbols plays a crucial role in shaping the communal identity and character of the Bloods Gang.

What Does The Dragon Tattoo Mean In Hong Kong?

The Chinese dragon is a pivotal symbol representing protection, power, wisdom, and good fortune. Historically revered in ancient Chinese culture, dragons were believed to govern water and rain, embodying a godlike status. With the shift away from associations with crime, tattoo artists in Hong Kong are exploring new avenues for artistic expression, turning to dragon tattoos, which are steeped in cultural, spiritual, and historical significance. These tattoos reflect centuries of Chinese mythology and art, serving as a powerful declaration of both cultural identity and personal conviction.

A dragon tattoo often encompasses themes of strength, dominance, and powerful nature, making it a popular motif among those aspiring to convey resilience. A notable design might feature a dragon coiling down an arm, with striking reds, blues, and yellows accentuating its beauty. The symbolism extends beyond mere aesthetics; these tattoos evoke deeper meanings of overcoming challenges and embodying awareness and progress.

Dragons are emblematic of the Five Blessings in Chinese culture, symbolizing power, wealth, wisdom, health, and longevity. They are often linked to emperors, further underscoring their prestigious status. Besides their rich meaning, the taxonomy of dragons varies, with Hong Kong's having four claws, unlike the three-clawed Japanese dragons.

As the Year of the Dragon approaches, the popularity of dragon tattoos surges, appealing to those who wish to adorn their bodies with images that signify strength and prosperity. Ultimately, a Chinese dragon tattoo serves as a meaningful representation of one's aspirations for power, wisdom, and good fortune—attributes one would desire in their life and on their skin.

What Does The 4 Dots Tattoo Mean?

The four dots tattoo carries significant meanings and varied interpretations, largely depending on cultural contexts and individual beliefs. While it is often associated with a representation of balance and symmetry, its deeper implications can range from a sign of hope and luck to an indicator of past imprisonment. Historically, the concept of dot tattoos dates back to the early days of tattooing, where hand-tapping techniques were prevalent. Such designs were sometimes utilized as a form of marking criminals as punishment.

These four dots can have multiple representations. They may symbolize the four seasons or the four elements of life—Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. Alternatively, they can depict the four stages of existence: youth, adulthood, parenthood, and elderhood. In prison contexts, particularly in American and European settings, the four dots are present on the hand between the thumb and forefinger and typically signify a connection to incarceration.

The arrangement of the dots illustrates the concept of "blood in, blood out" and signifies the walls of a cell, where the outer four dots represent those walls, and the inner dot symbolizes the individual imprisoned.

In some cultures, the four dots tattoo is referred to as a quincunx, a design often associated with the notion of being surrounded by four walls, again reinforcing the prison connection. This symbolism is present in various forms; for instance, in the context of Norteno gangs, the four dots denote imprisonment with the fifth dot serving as a representation of the person’s experience. A common misconception surrounds the relationship between the three-dot and four-dot tattoos; while the former typically indicates a lifestyle associated with crime, the latter incorporates the extra dot to symbolize "evening out the hate," suggesting a more profound or personalized depiction of the wearer's journey.

The four dots tattoo, while appearing simple, thus carries a wealth of meanings that navigate between hope, protection, and acknowledgement of one's past. As tattoo culture evolves, these images continue to adapt, reflecting both personal significance and universal narratives of struggle, identity, and resilience.

Who Is Triad?

Triad is a term used to describe a transnational criminal organization originating from Greater China, specifically Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore, and extending to countries with substantial overseas Chinese communities. The term "triad" refers to various secret societies dating back to the Qing dynasty, as well as modern Chinese crime gangs and other Asian criminal organizations. Triads are recognized as family-run organized crime groups, often referred to as the Chinese Mafia or "black societies" in mainland China.

Presently, four major Triads dominate the landscape: Wo Hop To, Wo Shing Wo, Sun Yee On, and 14K. Historically, these groups trace their roots to secret societies formed in the 17th century, such as the Hung Mun and the Heaven and Earth Society, which were established to protect local interests and conduct illicit activities. Triad members have historically engaged in various illegal endeavors, including drug trafficking, extortion, and money laundering, with their influence extending into Chinatowns across the globe.

Sun Yee On, one of the prominent Triads, is also known as the New Righteousness and Peace Commercial and Industrial Guild. Unlike the Japanese Yakuza, who may have some legal business fronts, Triads traditionally operate as completely underground criminal entities.

Although the term "Triad" is commonly associated with organized crime, it also refers to a broader concept in other contexts, such as a triad of gods or a group of three in literature. Nevertheless, in the context of crime, Triads represent a significant force within global organized crime, much like the Italian Mafia, La Cosa Nostra.

Today, while traditional notions of the Triad may persist, many of these organizations have evolved into modern criminal gangs, leveraging the mythology associated with their origins to expand their illegal operations and maintain control over various illegal markets. The presence of Triads is felt wherever significant Chinese communities exist, particularly in urban areas worldwide.

Does Jake In Tokyo Vice Really Speak Japanese?

Ansel Elgort stars as Jake Adelstein, a journalist in HBO's 'Tokyo Vice', a show based on Adelstein's 2009 memoir 'Tokyo Vice: An American Reporter on the Police Beat in Japan'. The series follows an American reporter navigating the complexities of crime reporting in Japan. Elgort's character speaks Japanese throughout the show, raising questions about the actor's actual proficiency in the language.

To prepare for this role, Elgort dedicated himself to learning Japanese, studying for over four hours each day. His commitment to the language is evident in his performances, as he manages to deliver his lines convincingly, contributing to the show's authenticity.

The Japanese spoken by American actors in the series, including Elgort, has received criticism, although the performance of the Japanese actress Miki Maya as Shoko adds depth. While the trailer may initially suggest a flashy Hollywood action flick with bright colors and dramatic fight scenes, 'Tokyo Vice' delves into real-life events and offers a more nuanced look at journalism and crime in Japan. Elgort's character interacts frequently in Japanese, reflecting the immersion he underwent during preparation for the role.

In addition to Elgort, the series stars Ken Watanabe, who enhances the narrative through his performance. Both actors had to dedicate significant time to mastering their lines in Japanese, indicating that they not only memorized dialogue but also engaged extensively with the language. Elgort expressed that he was familiar with the overall story but hadn't lived through the events portrayed, emphasizing the learning curve involved in embodying his character authentically.

The show's production is helmed by Michael Mann, underscoring the serious and complex nature of the narrative. Ultimately, Elgort's willingness to learn and adapt to the language enriches the viewing experience, making 'Tokyo Vice' a compelling drama based on true events.