30+ Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoos That Embody Timeless Wisdom

Tattoos have always been an expressive platform, a personal canvas to splash your beliefs, experiences, or personal symbolism. The “hear no evil, see no evil” tattoo trend is gaining ground, taking roots from a powerful proverb that traces back to 17th century Japan. These three wise monkeys, known as Mizaru, Kikazaru, and Iwazaru, embody a compelling message about living a life governed by good thoughts, good words, and good deeds. It’s a potent mantra that resonates with many, encapsulating the desire to shut out the negativity in the world around us, to focus on the positive, and maintain our moral compass.

With symbolism that resonates so deeply, it’s no wonder that these tattoos are being etched on skin worldwide. The “hear no evil, see no evil” motif is versatile; it can be depicted in traditional Japanese style, a more minimalist approach, or even be reinvented in a modern artistic aesthetic. Tattoo lovers are lured by this adaptability, the chance to tailor a universally significant symbol to their unique style and narrative. These tattoos represent a commitment to a certain philosophy of life, a visual reminder to remain unwavering in the face of life’s trials.

Each “hear no evil, see no evil” tattoo is a personal interpretation, a story spun in ink and creativity. Whether it’s a loud declaration on a forearm or a subtle statement tucked behind an ear, the message remains the same – a pledge to uphold values that transcend time and culture. Dive in, let the artistry inspire you and who knows, you might find your next tattoo among the 30+ “hear no evil, see no evil” designs in this blog post. No two tattoos are the same, just like no two stories are the same. So, go on, lose yourself in the tapestry of ink and tales that await you.

1. Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1bd5CvCly2/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Colorful, fun, and somewhat childish and retro – this tattoo is for those who enjoy cute and artsy images. Show that you’re not afraid of evil whatsoever and that you’re ready to conquer it your own way.

2. Forearm Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CmsTC2Rumi5/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Three little monkeys with their eyes, ears, and mouths covered are used to describe a willingness to be in your positive mind, speech, and action. It is a gorgeous tattoo that is going to look amazing on your forearm.

3. Retro Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CHKj2bRlcVv/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

If you love colorful and retro tattoos, as well as tribal-like designs, this is perfect for you. Show that you prefer subtle pops of color and that you’re all about creating unique art.

4. Big Shoulder Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CchiPSHuWQf/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Do you like this shoulder tattoo, and are you a fan of mystical, mysterious, and devilish tattoos? If so, this black and red combo is for you. A fun fact: Buddhists said that if we do not hear, see or speak evil, we ourselves will be saved from evil. Don’t you just love this meaning?

5. Cool Leg Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CRuy4H8J3Nl/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Men and women can both get this unique tattoo. It is stylish and feisty, often worn by those who enjoy defined art pieces.

6. Fist Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CnmVOvtJuUF/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Try this artsy take on a tattoo and rock the design on your palms or fists. Try out this design only if your job allows you to wear as big and flashy dominant tattoos.

7. Colorful Sweet Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CNcbwRxpgJd/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Women who want to try out a gorgeous and colorful tattoo are going to love this little retro concept. Different shades can also symbolize different emotions that you might be going through. If you want a fun tattoo with a deep meaning, this is it!

8. Medusa Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CsZquYNB8pv/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Such a unique take on your tattoo, don’t you agree? If you enjoy visible designs and forearm placements, we know that this is going to look good on you. It also has a bit of that mystical Greek element to it, so who wouldn’t want it?

9. Monkey Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cqmwu7DBHvQ/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

You can make your “see no evil hear no evil tattoo” a bit different and funny, as well as retro. This monkey-inspired design is perfect for those who love colorful bigger pieces.

10. Small Forearm Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CBxKwJ5Cqds/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Try out this cool black circle and tattoo several monkeys in the center. All of them connected together will symbolize your true personality and how you love to be seen by others.

11. Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo Design

https://www.instagram.com/p/CmWkCTCjQWM/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

This monkey design is seen as a detailed and intriguing design. It can symbolize your imagination and your ability to overcome obstacles and challenges in life.

12. Big Shoulder Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CJo42wrj_WN/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

If you enjoy bigger shoulder designs and you love dramatic tattoos then this is for you. It shows your way of facing issues and finding out who you can trust and at what price. It determines your true intentions and how you see everyone around you.

13. Small Monkeys Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CgX1_z7Pk0g/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

A cool thing about this tattoo is that it can be worn by men and women since it is so unisex. The placement itself is also perfect for guys and girls.

14. Colorful Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo Design

https://www.instagram.com/p/CNFO6FBMZbu/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Show that you’re ready to commit to a serious tattoo with a meaningful description by booking this design. It is fun and bold while symbolizing your true nature and what you believe in and stand for.

15. Shoulder Tattoo Of Hear No Evil See No Evil

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ci4TvWDDSe2/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Guys and girls who want a tattoo that holds a symbolic value to them are going to like this design. It is often worn by those who like creativity and tattoos that hold some depth.

16. Cool Chest Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CGSzqgbBwJ0/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Let the world know that you have nothing to hide or be afraid of by getting this tattoo. If you like bigger pieces this design is your new must-book and must-try.

17. Blue Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CrbyrucJcsy/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

If you are afraid of showing your true emotions or intentions you can show it clearly with this hear no evil speak no evil tattoo. All of us have something in our lives or in our past that we would love to silence completely, right?

18. Stomach Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CJG3qBdDqw4/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

If you have a couple of hours to spare and you want a creative design that is a true masterpiece, we know that you’re going to like this design.

19. Black Shoulder Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/BfRcwb0Dztt/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Let the world see you for who you really are by getting this tattoo. It is done in layers while also golfing and representing a ton of different layers, don’t you agree?

20. Forearm Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo Print

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cbcxn5vsts_/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

You should invest 3-4 hours to get this tattoo and you fully commit to its beauty. This design is going to suit anyone who is into sentimental pieces.

21. Cool Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwhVXxmDIZu/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Make sure that your budget is flexible and that you know of a good tattoo artist who knows how to do similar designs. Book the best one in the game to end up with the exact same and similar outcome.

22. Feminine Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CdWoNwWPFAw/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Ladies who want something sweet, small, and cute are going to like this tattoo. It is petite and elegant while saying quite a lot about the person wearing it.

23. Calf Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/ChMgf0Orrok/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Ladies who love colorful leg tattoos and want something dramatic and elegant will fancy this design. It is vibrant and so artsy, ready to commit to it?

24. Three Monkeys Hear No Evil See No Evil Tattoo

https://www.instagram.com/p/CZmjxwaoNC1/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D

Lastly, this monkey tattoo represents “see no evil hear no evil” is going to look amazing on guy who love bigger pieces. Go for a forearm placement and show it off everywhere you go.

So, ready to discover a tattoo that speaks to your soul? Explore the rich variety of “hear no evil, see no evil” designs in this blog post. It’s more than ink, it’s a journey into individual narratives, creativity, and an age-old philosophy that might just inspire your next masterpiece. Happy scrolling!

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Soheil Khaledi

I've been a tattoo artist for over 13 years, working in 35 states and abroad. My art is prominent in the Pacific Northwest and Hawaii. I also tattoo on military bases in foreign countries. I share my inspirations on my blog.

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