Have you ever wondered what the Bible says about tattoos? In a world where body art is increasingly popular, it’s easy to get caught up in the trend and ask, “Is it really that bad?” As Christians, it’s crucial to ask whether our choices align with God’s Word.
This blog will take you on a journey through Scripture, helping you understand what God says about tattoos and why it matters. By the end, you’ll have a clearer perspective on this often-debated topic, and you’ll be equipped to make decisions that honor God with your body and spirit.
What Does the Bible Say About Tattoos?
When it comes to tattoos, the Bible provides direct guidance in the Old Testament. In Leviticus 19:28, we find a clear command: “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD.”
This verse was part of the Old Covenant laws given to the Israelites, designed to set them apart from the pagan nations around them. The surrounding cultures practiced body markings as part of rituals to honor the dead or their gods, which God strictly forbade.
But what about today? Christians are no longer under the Old Covenant, so does this command still apply?
While the New Testament doesn’t mention tattoos specifically, it doesn’t mean we are free to do as we please. The Bible teaches us that sin is the transgression of God’s law (1 John 3:4), and we must ask ourselves whether getting a tattoo aligns with the principles of God’s Word.
A New Testament Perspective: Honoring God With Your Body
The New Testament emphasizes that our bodies are not our own—they are temples of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, the Apostle Paul writes, “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.”
This passage reminds us of a crucial truth: our bodies belong to God. They were bought at a great price—the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Therefore, every decision we make about our bodies should reflect our desire to glorify God.
Getting a tattoo raises important questions: Are we glorifying God with this act? Are we respecting the body He gave us? Or are we seeking to follow worldly trends and draw attention to ourselves?
(🚨 For a longer explanation of what the Bible says about tattoos, I highly recommend you read, “Is it okay for Christians to get tattoos?” 🚨)
Why Do You Want a Tattoo?
It’s also important to reflect on your motives. Why do you want a tattoo? Is it to express your faith, or is it to fit in with the world? Jesus calls us to be lights in a dark world, to stand out because of our love, kindness, and devotion to Him—not because of external appearances.
If your desire for a tattoo is driven by a need for attention, recognition, or conformity to worldly standards, then it’s worth reconsidering.
Jesus never sought to draw attention to Himself through outward appearances; instead, He pointed people to the Father. As followers of Christ, our actions, including what we do with our bodies, should point others to God, not to ourselves.
What If You Already Have Tattoos?
Now, you might be thinking, “What if I already have tattoos? Does that mean I’m living in sin?” If you came to Christ after getting tattoos, it’s important to remember that God is gracious and understanding.
He looks at the heart, and what matters most is how you live now that you know the truth. God is more concerned with your spiritual transformation and your commitment to live a holy, righteous life that pleases Him.
Choose to Glorify God
In conclusion, while tattoos may not be explicitly condemned in the New Testament, the principles of Scripture guide us to treat our bodies with respect and to seek God’s glory in all we do. Remember, your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, and it was bought at a great price. Before making any decision, especially one as permanent as a tattoo, ask yourself: Does this honor God? Does it align with His Word?
May we all strive to live lives that are holy and pleasing to God, reflecting His love and truth in everything we do—without the need for outward markings to prove our faith. Instead, let our actions, words, and love for others be the testimony that draws people to Christ.
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We’ve been discussing this subject lately so it’s good to have it brought up! I’ve often wondered about writing a phone number on one’s hand? What I’ve recently been understanding from that passage is that it would be a sin if the tattooing was done specifically for the dead. Similarly, cutting oneself isn’t a sin on it’s own as sometimes it may be required in situations such as surgery. But it would be sin to cut yourself for the dead, same as rounding, or pulling your hair out for the dead. Thoughts?
Hi Amberly, that’s a good question. Personally, my belief is that I don’t support getting tattoos whether you do it for the dead or not. It goes back to the general principle that you should take care of the Temple of the Holy Spirit, which is your body. Surgery is a way for you to take care of your body. However, I don’t see how tattoos can help you take care of your body.