Justin Bieber, a global pop icon, is as well-known for his music as he is for his extensive and ever-growing collection of tattoos. Starting his tattoo journey at the young age of 16, Bieber has transformed his body into a canvas, adorned with over 60 unique designs. These aren’t just random artworks; each Justin Bieber Tattoo tells a story, reflecting his faith, musical journey, family bonds, and personal beliefs.
In a 2018 Instagram post, Bieber himself acknowledged his dedication to body art, stating, “Over a hundred hours of art work on my body and I wouldn’t take back a single one… I absolutely love art and I’ve made my body a canvas and it’s so much fun.” For fans and tattoo enthusiasts alike, Justin Bieber’s tattoos offer a fascinating glimpse into the star’s inner world. Let’s explore the meanings and stories behind some of his most prominent pieces.
Religious Tattoos: Faith on Display
Bieber’s faith is a central theme throughout his tattoo collection, with numerous pieces expressing his Christian beliefs.
Subtle Cross Tattoo Near Eye
Close-up of Justin Bieber's face showing a very small cross tattoo near the corner of his right eye.
One of Bieber’s more discreet tattoos is a tiny cross near his eye. Tattoo artist JonBoy revealed in 2016 that this small Justin Bieber cross tattoo represents “his faith in Jesus and his journey with finding purpose in God.” This subtle yet powerful symbol speaks volumes about the importance of spirituality in Bieber’s life.
Prominent Chest Cross Tattoo
Perhaps the most visually striking of Justin Bieber’s religious tattoos is the large cross emblazoned across his chest. This bold statement of faith is hard to miss and holds deep personal meaning. Bieber explained to Vogue that “The cross in the middle of my chest is a symbol of my faith, and a reminder of what Jesus endured to rectify all that was broken.” This central tattoo serves as a constant reminder of his core beliefs.
“Yeshua” Tattoo on Ribs
Sharing a spiritual connection with his father, Justin and Jeremy Bieber both sport the Hebrew name for Jesus, “Yeshua,” tattooed on their ribs. This matching Justin Bieber tattoo highlights the shared faith within his family and their devotion to Christian principles.
Angel Battle Scene Torso Tattoo
For a truly epic piece, Bieber enlisted celebrity tattoo artist Bang Bang to create a sprawling angel battle scene across his stomach. This complex and detailed Justin Bieber tattoo depicts two angels triumphing over evil, represented by demons and skeletons. Bang Bang described the artwork as symbolic of “Gothic art and the struggle between the light and dark, the good and the evil, yin and yang,” reflecting Bieber’s spiritual understanding of life’s dualities.
Detailed view of Justin Bieber's torso tattoo featuring two angels battling demons, a cathedral, and skeletons.
Psalm 119:105 Back Tattoo
In 2013, Bieber added a powerful Bible verse to his back, tattooing Psalm 119:105. The inscription, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path,” showcases his reliance on scripture for guidance and direction in his life. This Justin Bieber tattoo serves as a personal mantra and declaration of faith.
Jesus Christ Calf Tattoo
Another prominent religious image in Bieber’s collection is a depiction of Jesus Christ on the back of his right leg. This Justin Bieber Jesus tattoo, added in 2012, further solidifies his commitment to his Christian faith and serves as a visual representation of his savior.
Praying Hands Ankle Tattoo
Located around his left ankle, a pair of praying hands accompanied by roses adds another layer to Bieber’s religious iconography. Praying hands are a classic symbol of faith and devotion, and this Justin Bieber tattoo is a testament to his prayerful nature.
“Chi” Symbol Arm Tattoo
Nestled within his arm sleeve is the “Chi” symbol, a Greek letter representing Christ. While seemingly straightforward, Bieber told GQ that the “X” could also represent the “unknown,” adding a layer of mystery and depth to this particular Justin Bieber tattoo.
Angel Wings Neck Tattoo
Sprouting from the back of his neck, angel wings are another prominent symbol of faith in Bieber’s tattoo collection. These Justin Bieber angel wings tattoo likely represent protection, guidance, and a connection to the divine, further reinforcing his spiritual themes.
“Son of God” Rib Tattoo
In 2017, Bieber boldly declared his devotion with the phrase “Son of God” tattooed under his ribs. This direct and unambiguous Justin Bieber tattoo leaves no doubt about his religious identity and his relationship with his faith.
Musical Tattoos: Celebrating a Career in Song
Music is undeniably a driving force in Justin Bieber’s life, and he has several tattoos that pay homage to his passion and career.
“Purpose” Belly Tattoo
In 2015, Bieber announced the name of his highly anticipated album “Purpose” by getting it tattooed above his belly button. This Justin Bieber “Purpose” tattoo served as both a personal statement and a promotional piece, showcasing his dedication to his music and its message.
“Believe” Forearm Tattoo
Marking the release of his debut album “Believe” in 2012, Bieber had its title inked onto his forearm. This Justin Bieber “Believe” tattoo is a permanent reminder of his early success and the album that catapulted him to global stardom.
Owl Forearm Tattoo
Also from his “Believe” era, an owl tattoo on his forearm symbolizes wisdom, according to Bieber’s GQ interview. This Justin Bieber owl tattoo reflects a desire for knowledge and understanding, themes often explored in his music.
Crown Chest Tattoo
A small crown on his chest, added in 2012, is widely believed by fans to be a tribute to the “King of Pop,” Michael Jackson. This Justin Bieber crown tattoo signifies respect for musical royalty and perhaps Bieber’s own aspirations within the music industry.
Treble Clef Neck Tattoo
Behind his left ear, a treble clef tattoo subtly declares Bieber’s love for music. This delicate Justin Bieber treble clef tattoo is a classic symbol of musicality and a quiet nod to his profession.
Boombox Forearm Tattoo
For a touch of old-school flair, Bieber sports a boombox tattoo, representing his appreciation for music’s history and evolution. This Justin Bieber boombox tattoo is a playful yet meaningful addition to his musical ink.
Japanese Kanji “Music” Tattoo
Expressing his global appeal, Bieber has the Japanese Kanji character for “music” tattooed on his arm. This Justin Bieber Kanji tattoo demonstrates his appreciation for diverse musical traditions and his worldwide fanbase.
Diamond Wrist Tattoo
A diamond tattoo on his wrist is not only aesthetically pleasing but also connected to his music. The diamond features in the album artwork for his “Confident” collaboration with Chance the Rapper, linking this Justin Bieber tattoo directly to a specific musical project.
Peach Neck Tattoo
To celebrate his hit single “Peaches” from the “Justice” album, Bieber got a peach tattooed on his neck in 2021. This very recent Justin Bieber peach tattoo is a fun and contemporary tribute to his latest musical success.
Family Tattoos: Honoring Loved Ones
Family is clearly important to Justin Bieber, and he has dedicated several tattoos to his closest relatives.
Bird Hip Tattoo
Justin’s very first tattoo, a small outline of a bird in flight on his hip, is a family tradition. This Justin Bieber bird tattoo symbolizes the seagull from “Jonathan Livingston Seagull,” a fable about striving for more. Most of Bieber’s family members have matching bird tattoos, making it a symbol of familial unity and shared values. He got this tattoo in Toronto on his 16th birthday in honor of this family tradition.
Roman Numerals Shoulder Tattoo
In 2013, Bieber honored his mother, Pattie Mallette, by tattooing Roman numerals representing her birth year, 1975. This Justin Bieber Roman numeral tattoo is a loving tribute to his mother and a permanent reminder of their bond.
Stratford Culliotons Mascot Shoulder Tattoo
A less common but deeply personal Justin Bieber tattoo is the logo of the Stratford Culliotons, a Canadian junior ice hockey team. He got this tattoo on his shoulder blade in honor of his grandfather, who used to take him to their games, showing a sentimental connection to his family history and memories.
Mom’s Eye Elbow Tattoo
Perhaps one of his more unique family tributes is an eye tattooed on his elbow, symbolizing his mother always watching over him. This Justin Bieber eye tattoo is a constant reminder of his mother’s presence and protective love in his life.
Words of Inspiration Tattoos: Guiding Principles
Beyond faith and family, Justin Bieber’s tattoos also include words and phrases that serve as personal mantras and inspirational reminders.
“Forgive” Hip Tattoo
During a period of public scrutiny in 2014, Bieber got “forgive” tattooed on his hip. This Justin Bieber “forgive” tattoo served as a message to himself and the world, reflecting on past mistakes and the importance of forgiveness.
“Patience” Neck Tattoo
Also in 2014, amidst his on-again, off-again relationship with Selena Gomez, Bieber tattooed “patience” down his neck. This Justin Bieber “patience” tattoo likely represents the need for patience in relationships and life in general.
“Trust” Arm Tattoo
Located in the crook of his arm, the word “trust” serves as a personal reminder. This Justin Bieber “trust” tattoo encourages him to have faith in himself and others, a valuable principle in navigating fame and personal relationships.
“LL” Arm Tattoo
The cryptic “LL” on his arm is an acronym reminding Bieber to “lift your head” when feeling down. This Justin Bieber “LL” tattoo is a simple yet effective motivational tool, promoting resilience and optimism.
“Grace” Eyebrow Tattoo
In 2018, Bieber subtly tattooed “grace” above his eyebrow. This almost hidden Justin Bieber “grace” tattoo, matching his wife Hailey Baldwin’s “style” tattoo, represents divine grace and perhaps the grace they find in their relationship.
Sparrow and “Forever” Neck Tattoo
Mirroring Hailey Baldwin’s “lover” neck tattoo, Bieber has “forever” tattooed under a sparrow on his neck. This Justin Bieber “forever” tattoo, combined with the sparrow symbolizing using his gifts to “fly above,” represents commitment, love, and purpose.
“Better at 70” Thigh Tattoo
A more unusual inspirational phrase, “Better at 70,” is tattooed on Bieber’s thigh. This Justin Bieber “better at 70” tattoo is a long-term self-improvement goal, reflecting his desire for continuous growth and learning throughout his life.
Miscellaneous Tattoos: Eclectic and Personal
Beyond the main themes, Justin Bieber’s tattoo collection includes a variety of eclectic and personal designs.
Selena Gomez Portrait Wrist Tattoo
Perhaps his most talked-about miscellaneous tattoo is a portrait of ex-girlfriend Selena Gomez on his wrist. Inspired by an Elle magazine photoshoot, this Justin Bieber Selena Gomez tattoo, though later altered, remains a significant piece of his personal history.
Close up of Justin Bieber's wrist tattoo, a portrait of Selena Gomez with angel wings.
Bear, Lion, and Eagle Torso Tattoos
Spanning his torso are large portraits of a bear, lion, and eagle. These Justin Bieber animal tattoos are symbolic, with the bear representing rest, the lion boldness, and the eagle – though meaning not explicitly stated in the article, often symbolizes freedom and vision. These powerful animal images add to the overall dramatic effect of his extensive torso art.
Eagle, Tiger, and Koi Fish Arm Tattoos
Adding to his menagerie, Bieber has a second eagle, a tiger, and a koi fish tattooed on his left upper arm. These Justin Bieber animal tattoos further expand on the themes of strength, courage, and perhaps prosperity (koi fish are often associated with good fortune).
Castle and Knight Arm Tattoos
Within his arm sleeve, a castle and knight tattoo add elements of fantasy and chivalry to Bieber’s collection. These Justin Bieber castle and knight tattoos could represent resilience, protection, and inner strength.
Mismatched Sleeve Tattoos
Bieber’s arms are fully sleeved with a diverse range of images, creating a “mismatched” aesthetic. These Justin Bieber sleeve tattoos include an eight ball, Banksy’s “Balloon Girl,” Boo from Super Mario Brothers, a compass, a Korean mask, and many other seemingly random yet personally meaningful symbols, showcasing his eclectic taste and experiences.
Jester Arm Tattoo
A jester tattoo on his arm is believed by fans to be a jab at the press for negative portrayals. This Justin Bieber jester tattoo could represent his feelings of being misunderstood or mocked by the media.
Detailed view of Justin Bieber's arm tattoo featuring a jester with makeup.
“Make ’em Pay” Bicep Tattoo
Matching a tattoo with Hillsong Church pastor Carl Lentz, Bieber has “make ’em pay” alongside two guns on his inner bicep. This Justin Bieber “make ’em pay” tattoo is controversial and its exact meaning is debated, but it likely represents loyalty and standing up for one’s beliefs.
Laurel Wreath Neck Tattoo
Added earlier this year, a laurel wreath encircles Bieber’s neck. This Justin Bieber laurel wreath tattoo is a classic symbol of victory and achievement, perhaps representing his continued success and resilience in his career.
Rose Neck Tattoo
His most recent tattoo, a large rose rising from his collarbone up his neck, is a striking and symbolic piece. Bieber explained that this Justin Bieber rose tattoo “reminds me that even though I’m flawed, beauty shines even through our rough edges.” This introspective statement highlights his acceptance of imperfections and the enduring nature of beauty.
Justin Bieber’s tattoos are more than just skin deep. They are a visual autobiography, charting his spiritual journey, musical milestones, family connections, and personal philosophies. Each Justin Bieber tattoo offers a unique insight into the man behind the music, making his body art as captivating as his songs.
