In Irish lóchrann is the word that is used figuratively to represent a guiding light (literally it means torch/lantern). So that gives you Mo Teaghlach, Mo Lóchrann. You could always embellish and go with Mo Lóchrann Geal meaning ‘my shining torch’ - but a torch shines anyway - or it isn’t very good as torches go - so there’s really no need.

Rather than a form of the word eolaí (which can mean ‘guide’), if I was going to go with a literal translation (and I wouldn’t) I’d probably go with mo solas treorach for ‘my guiding light’. Sticking with a form of the word eolaí you could opt for mo réalt eolais which would be ‘my guiding star’

Anyway my vote would be with Mo Teaghlach, Mo Lóchrann.

I have also read elsewhere that if space is an issue, you can omit the word “uile” without compromising the meaning. Is this the case?

I’ve been taking Irish (language) class at the Irish Museum & Cultural Center w/ Renata (a lovely lady), and your explaination jives with the one she gave us as well - not that I’d ever doubt you (or that you’d need reassurance that you’re correct)!

I should - and will - amend where I have “clann” as meaning family.

“Clann” was commonly taught in schools in Ireland to mean “family” and as such is commonly used by non-native speakers like myself to mean “family”, but it really only means “family” in the same sense in English that you might ask somebody if they are going to start a family i.e. it means “offspring” or “descendants”.

“Teaghlach” does mean “family” in the sense of parents and children living together. Relating to a household, it comes from the word “Teach” which means “house”. This word is most commonly used by native speakers in Gaeltacht areas.

Also “Muintir” - translated most commonly as “people”, is also used to mean “family”, usually with the name to refer to the wider family.

Remember, literal translations are not good if even possible, and context can give meanings to words that they don’t have when used in isolation.

If your tattoo is going to say just one word I imagine you want “Teaghlach”, but if it is to be combined with your family name or used with other words perhaps “muintir” is best for you. You might have a read through the forums on Daltaí na Gaeilge