What does the Bible Say About Tattoos?

As tattoos have gained popularity over recent days, many Christians are asking themselves what the Bible says about the subject. Many people get tattoos for peer pressure, media influence, and personal expression among other reasons. Some Christians take issue with tattooing arguing that it is a violation of Leviticus 19:28 while others have held New Testament has not talked about the issue and therefore it is not a sin.

The New Testament does not say that getting a tattoo is a sin. There is no mention of tattooing in the New Testament. This is one of the issues that fall under the “gray area” as far as the Bible is concerned. Therefore it is advisable for believers to follow their convictions prayerfully and respect those who hold contrary opinions.

Prohibition of Tattoos in the Old Testament

But before we settle there, let’s have a look at the Old Testament prohibition of tattoos.
“Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD” (Leviticus 19:28).

God in the Old Testament forbade Israelites from making marks on their bodies. Although the reason not to tattoo their bodies was not stated in the passage, it seems tattooing was a pagan practice that was connected to superstition and idolatry. Tattoos have long been associated with pagan beliefs and culture. The Gebelein Mummies found in Egypt dating back to 3400 BCE were found to have the oldest figure tattoos.

So the context of Leviticus 19:28 is in the setting where Israelites are surrounded by pagans who tattooed their bodies to honor their gods. God was calling Israelites to be separate people.
A Christian should not get a tattoo for the support of worldly philosophy or superstition. Nevertheless, it would be wrong to place Christians under Mosaic law.

Now Is it Okay for Christians to have Tattoos?

Just because the Bible does not speak about something as sin, it does not mean that we can just plunge into it anyhow. Anyone willing to get a tattoo should prayerfully consider the decision.

Below are some biblical principles to consider when planning to get a tattoo.

1. Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.

1 Corinthians 6:19. If then our bodies be the temple of the Holy Spirit, who dwells in us, should we then be careful with what we do with them? Is the body modification necessary? Is tattooing your body going to cross the line? Consider this prayerfully.

2. Doing all things to the glory of God.

The Bible commands us to seek the glory of God either by drinking or eating. What is the motivation for us while getting tattoos? Is it peer pressure just to ‘fit in’ in the society? The driving force to get a tattoo may be a sin. Do not get inked just to garner attention for that is a vain adventure focused on self.

3. Children are to Honor their parents.

If you are getting a tattoo against your parents will, you are sinning. Minors are commanded to honor their parents in the Lord. Ephesians 6:1-3.

4. What does not Proceed from Faith is a sin. (Romans 14:23)

Dear believer, before getting a tattoo be convinced that it is God’s will for you to have one.

5. Is it a stumbling block to other believers?

Do not just seek what is lawful to you. While it is true that we are free in Christ Jesus, freed by grace through faith and free from every legalistic bondage, we must sometimes restrict our freedom for the sake of others weaker in faith than we are. ( Romans 14, 1 Corinthians 8:10) Before getting a tattoo see that you do not be a stumbling block to those of weak faith.

Conclusion

Bottom line is that getting a tattoo is not a sin but the reason behind it can be sinful. We must always be careful not to use our freedom to do things that do not glorify God. Let biblical principles inform your decisions in whatever you do.
Does God accept tattoos? The short answer is that God saves by grace through faith.

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