Angelina Jolie’s Famous Tattoos and Their Deep Meanings
November 25, 2024Angelina Jolie, a name synonymous with Hollywood glamour and humanitarian efforts, is also widely recognized for her love of tattoos. Each of her tattoos carries a deep, personal meaning that reflects her journey, beliefs, and values. As an actress, director, and UN ambassador, Jolie’s body art is a fascinating canvas of her life’s milestones.
In this blog, we will delve into the stories behind Angelina Jolie’s tattoos, explore their meanings, and understand how they resonate with her persona.
The Art of Storytelling Through Tattoos
Tattoos have been a form of self-expression for centuries, and Angelina Jolie is a prime example of how body art can narrate one’s life story. From symbols of love and protection to tributes to her children, Jolie’s tattoos are a mix of cultural and emotional significance.
1. The Cambodian Khmer Script Tattoo: A Symbol of Protection
One of Angelina Jolie’s most prominent tattoos is the Cambodian Khmer script on her left shoulder blade. This tattoo, written in an ancient script, is a Buddhist prayer designed to protect her and her son Maddox, whom she adopted from Cambodia.
Meaning:
This tattoo reflects Jolie’s deep connection to Cambodia, the birthplace of her first adopted child. It signifies her gratitude and her protective instincts as a mother.
2. The Coordinates Tattoo: Love and Family
On her left arm, Angelina Jolie sports a tattoo of the geographical coordinates of her children’s birthplaces. Initially, this tattoo was a cover-up for the name of her ex-husband, Billy Bob Thornton.
Details of the Coordinates:
- Cambodia: Maddox’s birthplace
- Ethiopia: Zahara’s birthplace
- Namibia: Shiloh’s birthplace
- Vietnam: Pax’s birthplace
- France: Twins Knox and Vivienne’s birthplace
Meaning:
This tattoo signifies her devotion to her children and their global heritage. By replacing a tattoo dedicated to a past relationship, Jolie reinforced her focus on family and motherhood.
3. The Bengal Tiger Tattoo: Strength and Freedom
One of Jolie’s largest tattoos, a Bengal tiger, adorns her lower back. This tattoo was inked in Bangkok, Thailand, by a renowned tattoo artist using traditional Thai bamboo techniques.
Meaning:
The tiger symbolizes strength, courage, and freedom. It also commemorates her Cambodian citizenship, which was granted to her for her humanitarian work.
4. The Cross Tattoo: Faith and Protection
On her lower abdomen, Jolie has a bold cross tattoo. This tattoo was inked in 1995 to cover up a previous tattoo she got during a rebellious phase. Next to it is the phrase, “Quod me nutrit me destruit” (Latin for “What nourishes me destroys me”).
Meaning:
The cross reflects her belief in protection and faith, while the Latin phrase signifies her understanding of life’s dualities — how things that nurture us can also harm us if misused.
5. The Buddhist Mantra Tattoo: Spiritual Connection
Located on her upper back, this tattoo is a Buddhist yantra design accompanied by a mantra. This piece was inked in Thailand alongside her ex-husband Brad Pitt, symbolizing their connection.
Meaning:
This tattoo is a spiritual safeguard, believed to bring good luck and repel evil.
6. The ‘Know Your Rights’ Tattoo: Advocacy for Freedom
One of Jolie’s most politically charged tattoos is the phrase “Know Your Rights” inked across her upper back. This phrase is also the title of a song by her favorite band, The Clash.
Meaning:
The tattoo reflects her advocacy for human rights and her commitment to social justice. It’s a reminder to stand up for freedom and individuality.
7. The Roman Numerals Tattoo: Marking Milestones
Angelina Jolie has Roman numerals tattooed on her left forearm. The numerals “XIII V MCMXL” signify May 13, 1940, the date Winston Churchill gave his famous “blood, toil, tears, and sweat” speech.
Meaning:
This tattoo highlights her admiration for courage and resilience, traits she values in her life and career.
Angelina Jolie’s Tattoo Evolution
Over the years, Jolie’s tattoos have evolved, mirroring her personal growth and changing priorities. From youthful rebellion to meaningful tributes, her tattoos encapsulate her journey as an individual and a mother.
A Journey of Transformation:
- Covering up past mistakes: Tattoos like the “Billy Bob” and dragon tattoo were replaced with symbols of love and family.
- Expanding horizons: Her tattoos now include influences from different cultures, religions, and philosophies.
Why Angelina Jolie’s Tattoos Resonate with Fans
Angelina Jolie’s tattoos are not just decorative; they’re deeply personal. They inspire fans to see tattoos as more than mere body art — as a reflection of their identity and values.
Tattoos and Celebrity Influence
Jolie’s tattoos have influenced a trend of meaningful body art among her fans and other celebrities. Her ability to seamlessly blend art, culture, and personal history into her tattoos has set a benchmark in the world of celebrity ink.
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Conclusion: More Than Just Ink
Angelina Jolie’s tattoos are a testament to her life’s journey, reflecting love, strength, spirituality, and personal growth. They inspire countless individuals to see tattoos as symbols of identity and empowerment.
For more celebrity tattoo stories and tattoo inspiration, stay connected with Tattoos Down Under. Let your ink tell your story!
