Celebrity tattoos could have a multitude of different meanings behind them. Some stars might opt to get a lover's or child's name inked on their skin, while others may decide to get an etching that symbolizes their passion for their art. While the reasons behind a trip to the tattoo parlor might vary, more and more A-listers are starting to use ink to demonstrate their spirituality. The trend makes sense – after all, for those with strong ties to religion, ink provides a permanent way to demonstrate eternal faith.
Making a spiritual statement
One of the most recent examples of this is Justin Bieber's new tatt. The pop singer is no stranger to religious body art – in fact, he already has a dove and a Hebrew scripture on his ribcage. However, his latest addition to the collection is a reference to his religious beliefs. The inking features a portrait of Jesus' face on the back of his left calf. Hollywood.com noted that Bieber has long been vocal about his beliefs. In an interview with Billboard magazine last November, he was adamant about his faith. While his "believe" tattoo might only be a reference to his popular studio album, it also suggests the strength of his spirituality.
He isn't the only teen heartthrob with spiritual inkings, either. Harry Styles, a well-known tatt enthusiast, has a capital "X" inscribed on his ribcage, a letter that was used as a shorthand for Jesus in ancient Christian artwork. He previously sported a tatt that read "Things i can't" on the inside of his left forearm – which is believed to be a reference to the serenity prayer that says, "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference." However, the One Direction singer recently covered the design up – with a tatt of the Holy Bible.
David Beckham has a slew of Christianity-themed tattoos. One of his newest was inspired by a Matthew R. Brooks painting of Jesus prior to being mounted on the cross. Additionally, he and his wife Victoria both have matching Hebrew tatts from the Book of Solomon that say "I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine, who browses among the lilies."
Drew Barrymore is another star that has used ink to express her beliefs. The actress has a large intricate cross etched on her right leg. Demi Lovato also sports a cross on her right palm, but it's much smaller and simpler. Additionally, the singer has the word "faith" etched on her right forearm.
Indicating interest in other cultures
Not all of these inkings are centered around Christianity, though. Right after she adopted her son Maddox from Cambodia, Angelina Jolie opted to get a Buddist prayer on her back that reads "May your enemies run far away from you. If you acquire riches, may they remain yours always."
On the inside of Jessica Alba's wrist is one simple word: Padma, which represents the lotus flower and Hindu goddess Lakshmi who resides inside it.
While Katy Perry has expressed her strong ties to the Christian religion, she also has an interest in Hindu culture. That's why she decided to get the Sanskrit phrase "Anuugacchati Pravaha," which means "go with the flow," inked on her body while on a trip to India. However, the simple Jesus design on her left wrist, which she got when she was just 18 years old, is proof of where her loyalty lies.
Of course, if a person opts to switch religions due to marriage or simply changing beliefs, they'll need to consider tattoo removal options. Otherwise, though, these designs can prove to be a meaningful reminder of one's faith.
Over 45 million US adults* are living with tattoos, but now permanent ink can be a thing of the past. PicoSure® is the world's latest breakthrough technology in laser tattoo removal providing faster results in fewer treatments. Visit www.picosurear.wpengine.com to learn more and find a PicoSure Practitioner near you.
* Source: Harris Interactive, 2012
