What do Angelina Jolie Tattoos Mean? Jolie Sak Yant
The meanings of Angelina Jolie Sak Yant Tattoos
Angelina Jolie Back Tattoo Meanings of her Sak Yant

Angelina Jolie’s Thai tattoos first brought worldwide attention to traditional Sak Yant when she was made an honorary Cambodian citizen during the filming of First They Killed My Father in 2017. On that occasion, she chose the Twin Tiger Sak Yant, tattooed by the famous master Ajarn Noo Kanpai, who traveled from Bangkok to Siem Reap, Cambodia, where she was filming.
Her first Sak Yant tattoo was done by Ajarn Noo in 2003, followed by another in 2004. In keeping with tradition, she has continued to return to the same master for each of her Sak Yant tattoos.
Both Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt have received tattoos from Ajarn Noo over several visits. Today, however, his global recognition means that very few people can afford him, with prices now ranging between $3,000–$5,000 for even a basic Sak Yant.
There is little doubt that Angelina Jolie’s tattoos played a major role in sparking Western interest in this ancient Thai art form. Other celebrities have followed her lead—for example, Anthony Bourdain received his Sak Yant in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, from a different master than the one Jolie chose.
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ToggleWhat are Angelina Jolie Back Tattoos? | Angelina Jolie Sak Yant Tattoos
While Angelina Jolie Tattoos are mixed, she has predominantly chosen the Ancient Traditional Thai Tattoo Style in a form that is known as Sak Yant on her back. Both Angelina Jolie Sak Yant Tattoos and Brad Pitt (and indeed Anthony Bourdain) Sak Yant Tattoo’s are a magical and mystic form of talisman that include prayers given when applied and a Blessing to charge the Tattoo with magical intention.
Real vs Fake Sak Yant?
Almost all articles about Angelina Jolie’s Tattoos makes mention of former Monks and Sak Yant Masters (Ajarns) to highlight that Angelina Jolie Tattoos mean something special. Due to the popularity in Real Sak Yant Tattoos from celebrities, Thailand Tattoo studios who have jumped on the bandwagon and advertise and promote the Traditional Thai Bamboo Tattoo.
Tattoo Shop “Bamboo Tattoo” of Sak Yant designs is a tourist scam and should be avoided. A Real Sak Yant is a magical Tattoo, that requires years of study as a monk and the Sak Yant Master to live a spiritual life. This is one of the reasons Angelina had her Sak Yant Master flown to Cambodia from Bangkok rather than use a Tattoo Artist. You can find out here Why you don’t get a Sak Yant from a Tattoo Studio

Who did Angelina Jolie Sak Yant Tattoos? | Ajarn Noo Kanpai - Thailand

Angelina Jolie’s Thai tattoos first brought worldwide attention to traditional Sak Yant when she was made an honorary Cambodian citizen during the filming of First They Killed My Father in 2017. On that occasion, she chose the Twin Tiger Sak Yant, tattooed by the famous master Ajarn Noo Kanpai, who traveled from Bangkok to Siem Reap, Cambodia, where she was filming.
Her first Sak Yant tattoo was done by Ajarn Noo in 2003, followed by another in 2004. In keeping with tradition, she has continued to return to the same master for each of her Sak Yant tattoos.
Both Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt have received tattoos from Ajarn Noo over several visits. Today, however, his global recognition means that very few people can afford him, with prices now ranging between $3,000–$5,000 for even a basic Sak Yant.
There is little doubt that Angelina Jolie’s tattoos played a major role in sparking Western interest in this ancient Thai art form. Other celebrities have followed her lead—for example, Anthony Bourdain received his Sak Yant in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, from a different master than the one Jolie chose.
Angelina Jolie’s Sak Yant Tattoo | What is a Sak Yant
สักยันต์ - Sak Yant
Sak – meaning “to tap” or, “to tattoo”
Yant – meaning “Yantra”. Originally derived from the Sanskrit word “Yantra”.
Sak Yant is thought to have originated more than 2,000 years ago from Tai tribes living in Southwestern China and Northwest Vietnam. The art gradually spread southwards into Asia, but nowadays its main practitioners are to be found in Thailand. Hence they are often referred to as Angelina Jolie’s Thai Tattoos
These designs are made up of sacred geometrical, animal or deity designs and are completed with Pali script offering the bearer benefits such as:
Power, Protection, Fortune and Charisma.
When receiving a traditional Sak Yant tattoo it will consist of 3 different components:
The Design, The Magic Script and associated Mantra Prayer Blessing.
Details of each of Angelina Jolie Tattoo Meaning: Sak Yant Meaning
Angelina Jolie Tattoo Meaning | Hah Taew Sak Yant (Five Line)

Angelina Jolie Back Tattoo on the left shoulder. This is a Master Sak Yant
Over the centuries, either by accident or design, the original 5 lines of script which were written in Khom, an ancient Khmer language, underwent several changes and in recent years, several Sak Yant Ajarns have completely replaced the original 5 lines of script with lines of their own.Hah Taew, represents 5 yants or magical spells. Each one will be done individually and the following magical spells have been cast to do as described below.
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* The first row prevents unjust punishment and leans in your favor when the area is grey, cleans out unwanted spirits and protects the place you live in.
* The second row reverses and protects against bad horoscope constellations and bad fortune.
* The third row protects you from the use of black magic and anyone who tries to put a curse on you.
* The fourth row energizes your good luck, success and fortune in your future ambitions and life style.
* The fifth row is to gain charisma and attraction to the opposite sex. It is also is a boost to the fourth row.
It helps you regarding luck, virtue, wealth, success in business. Anyone who receives this Yant is protected from bad times and failure in life.
Angelina Jolie Tattoo Meaning | Kraw Petch Sak Yant (Diamond Armour)

Angelina Jolie Back Tattoo on the right shoulder. This yantra highlights the powerful of virtues of Buddha. It helps you regarding luck, virtue, wealth, success in business. Anyone who receives this Yant is protected from bad times and failure in life.
The Temple where this design was created also describes that one who recites this Kata everyday shall have his body covered with a Diamond Armour and will be protected from all dangers, he shall never be able to be destroyed by his enemies. In addition, the enemy will be destroyed through a strange phenomenon because of the reflective result from the magic Diamond Armour.
Angelina Jolie’s Kraw Petch Sak Yant tattoo will be helped with regard to:
Luck
Virtue
Wealth
Success in business
It also helps to protect against bad times and failures in one’s life
Angelina Jolie Tattoo Meaning | Suea Liaw lang Sak Yant (Tiger looking back)

The Thai Tattoo on Angelina Jolie lower back is the Tiger Looking Back. Tigers in there various forms represents power and authority. A Tiger turning its head to gaze behind. Removal of Bad Karma and to take the Brunt of bad luck is the main purpose.
Angelina Jolie’s Suea Hiaw Lang Sak Yant Tattoo, or “tiger looking back” represents protection from behind, having the Tiger watching your back. Most of the animal Yants have the attributes of that animal, the tiger has stealth, speed and power.
This Yant is suitable for people with authority and respect. As well as giving the bearer a fearful aura, it also represents compassion and kindness. This Yant is said to be helpful in business negotiations, managing employees, finances and helps develop communication skills.
It is said that the tiger looking back is best suited to those who are highly respected in the community. This Yant requires that the wearer must be a responsible and caring person and use their authority in a positive way.
Angelina Jolie Tattoo Meaning | Yant Phutson Sak Yant

At the top center of Angelina Jolie’s back is the Phutson. This Sak Yant of Angelina is between her five line (on her left upper back) and the Diamond Armor (on Jolie upper right back).
The Sak Yant Phutson or Yant of the five gods inspires true belief in the virtues it represents. This is a very popular and well know talisman for Thai people from the past to the present.
It is the highest talisman (A Master Talisman) and multi-purpose. The Sak Yant represents having and acting with great mercy towards yourself and others.
Amassing great fortune in both the physical and spiritual realms. Wearing this charm provides good luck and promotion in life.
Angelina Jolie Tattoo Meaning | Yant ViHan Pha Chad Sada Sak Yant

In the middle of Angelina Jolie’s back is the Sak Yant ViHan Pha Chad Sada.
This really consist of two Sak Yants, the upper is a square box with magical text inside of it. This is an original Sak Yant created by Ajarn Noo especially for Angelina and has been very difficult to find the exact meaning for. When asked his reply is just ‘protection’ which can be a term to describe all of Jolie’s back tattoos.
Sak Yant Talisman square represents the four continents and the four elements of earth, water, wind, fire. Each box contains text but the order of which direction within the square make it impossible for anyone to really know it’s meaning except for Ajarn Noo.
At the bottom is an inverted variation of the 9 Peaks Sak Yant. The 9 Peaks is a master Yant that is used to remind a person to remain true to their spiritual path – but also remain grounded in reality
Don’t get Fake Sak Yants from Tattoo Parlors
Angelina Jolie did not get her Sak Yant’s from a Tattoo Parlor in Thailand

Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt and Anthony Bourdain did not get their Sak Yant Tattoos from a Tattoo Parlor – so why would you? Many Tattoo shops have provided incorrect Sak Yant Designs for years to the gullible tourist. With the advent of Websites, many are now providing information about Sak Yants online in the hopes to maintain this income over valuing the Thai Culture.
However the Sak Yant remains a sacred and spiritual tattoo that no amount of special pleading from a Tattoo Shop website can justify. Tattoo Artists just do not have the knowledge of magical arts, and do not spend the majority of their life dedicating themselves to Spiritual pursuits. It would seem obvious that to provide a magic and sacred Sak Yant Tattoo, you should at least have studied the magical system and understand them.
You can find more details at the following articles.
Sak Yants Myths and Information and
Why you don’t get a Sak Yant from a Tattoo Shop.
Want to Get a Real Sak Yant with Magical Blessing??
Sak Yant Chiang Mai is Thailand’s leading Sak Yant provider – Over 10 Independent Sak Yant Masters working in Hygienic and comfortable Samnaks
Sak Yant Chiang Mai Reviews - 80% say the Best Experience they had in Thailand - Many in their life!
Ross24 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Such a special experience, from the moment I walked in the staff at reception were absolutely lovely, so helpful and informative. We chatted for ages and then I was taken through to the room with the Arjan and made to feel right at home, I've got so many tattoos but nothing will beat the special experience of this one. Cannot fault the shop or anyone working there. Professional, incredible, beautiful art work with amazing meaning behind. Next time I'm in Chiang Mai I'll be heading back for another one or two. 11/10 Jeka Spektor21 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Wow, simply an amazing experience. Very kind people with positive energy. I chose to get the tattoo at a temple for an especially authentic experience — an incredible place filled with peace and tranquility. The girl who accompanied me there was also wonderful, with such an interesting personality; she explained a lot about the local culture and was truly pleasant company. And a nice bonus… if you’re still hesitating about whether to get the tattoo or not, it’s worth it at least for the delicious tea you’ll drink afterwards 😉 Luca Musatti21 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Staff attento alla valutazione del tatuaggio, molto accorti sulla posizione e disposti a dare consigli. Attenti durante la preparazione e tutta la fase del tatuaggio. Grazie dell'esperienza Isabella Hurtado20 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Their website is very informative, I got a very good idea about the whole process. I did my tattoo today and it was a beautiful experience , staff and the master were so kind, the master was very patience with me, I have very high pain level, he was very patience and he encouraged me with words, telling me how strong I am. Thank you so much, I would never forget this beautiful experience and I’m so happy with my Sak Yant tattoo. God bless you guys! Jochen Barthelmes16 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 2025 I highly recommend the Sak Yant Chiang Mai salon to anyone who wants to get a Sak Yant tattoo. This is my second time here and I've booked several sessions over four days, spending a total of 18 hours there. A huge thank you to the entire team. You were so friendly and accommodating. I felt very comfortable every day. A huge thank you, of course, goes to the Sak Yant Masters: Dang, Sam, Beer, and Tom. Thank you so much for your great work. Thank you for everything! See you again next year :). 2024 Heute habe ich mein wunderschönes Sak Yant bekommen. Ich bin wirklich begeistert von der Qualität. Der Ablauf ist Top. Das Team sehr freundlich und bemüht . Ich werde wieder kommen . Vielen Dank an alle. Bis zum nächsten Mal. Giacomo Palattella16 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommended. Staff do gentle and clear about the meaning of the tattoo. The monk was so good and delicate! Considering the whole experience also the price was worth it! Stéphanie Laurence16 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ce fut un moment merveilleux hors du temps... Nous avons été accueillis par une équipe très souriante et aux petits soins dès les premiers pas faits dans le salon. Petits gâteaux et thés vous seront servis en attendant que le Maître soit prêt 🥰 Une personne est aussi là pour nous accompagner pour le rituel, de l'offrande jusqu'à à la cérémonie de fin Durant la session, le personnel a été très soucieux de ma douleur (le dos est sensible chez moi 😅). Pour mon mari, tout s'est merveilleusement bien passé également. Nous avions booké 1h supplémentaire car hors-temps, mais finalement l'acompte nous a été rendu car l'Ajarn avait finit plus vite Merci au Maître Sak Yant, Ajarn Tom, de nous avoir fait vivre cette expérience Une première pour nous mais certainement pas la dernière Merci à toute l'équipe si douce A très vite🙏🧡 Stéphanie & Arthur arthur liotard15 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Un accueil chaleureux et plein de sourires, que demander de plus ? La cérémonie est intense et le Sak Yant ne l'est pas moins. Encore et comme toujours, entourés de personnes formidables en Thaïlande alors merci Sak Yant Chiang Mai pour cette experience extraordinaire. Arthur & Stéphanie ❤️
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