Bible Verses About Tattoos

As the popularity of tattoos continues to increase, many Christians wonder what the Bible has to say about tattoos. The Bible makes no specific reference to tattoos as we understand them in modern times. Some Christians condemn all tattooing as immoral because of interpretations that God forbids them in Leviticus 19:28.

What does the Bible say about Tattoos?

Most Bible translations do not explicitly address the topic of tattoos, and opinions on the matter may vary among different Christian denominations and interpretations. The closest reference that some people associate with tattoos comes from Leviticus 19:28 in the Old Testament, which states, "You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord."

Interpreting this verse involves considering the historical and cultural context in which it was written. Some argue that the prohibition was related to pagan mourning practices or idolatrous rituals and does not necessarily condemn modern, culturally neutral tattoos. Others view it as a guideline emphasizing the sanctity of the human body as a temple.

In the New Testament, there is a focus on the inward state of the heart and faith rather than external practices. While some Christians may hold reservations about tattoos based on personal convictions, many do not see them as inherently sinful. Ultimately, individuals and communities of faith may differ in their perspectives on the appropriateness of tattoos, and believers often seek guidance from their own understanding of biblical principles and their relationship with God.

Top Bible Verses about Tattoos

Leviticus 19:28 - You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

1 Corinthians 10:31 - So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

Deuteronomy 14:1 - “You are the sons of the Lord your God. You shall not cut yourselves or make any baldness on your foreheads for the dead.

Ephesians 5:10 - And try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.

1 Corinthians 10:23 - “All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.

Romans 1:24 - Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves,

Meaning of Leviticus Law on Tattoos

Leviticus 19:28 literally translates, “And a cutting for the dead you will not make in your flesh, and writing marks you will not make on you; I am the Lord.” The word writing refers to inscribed or engraved symbols/words and is used only here. The word for marks, also used here alone, has an uncertain root, so we’re not really sure what the word means. Further, the word tattoo did not enter English until the late 1700s. This is probably why the KJV, written in the early 1600s, is closer to the literal translation saying, “ye shall not...print marks upon you.”

The background of this law was that Israel, after being rescued from slavery, was between Egypt and Canaan. Recent archeology indicates that, while Egypt did tattoos, it was limited to women. Evidence suggests that tattooing the body parts of women associated with fertility (breasts, thighs, and abdomen) was believed to be a good luck charm to protect the birthing process. In Canaan, evidence indicates that instead of marking the body with ink, more extreme scarification measures, like branding, slashing, or gashing the skin, were used. Archeology, backed by biblical texts, indicates the Canaanites would customarily slash their bodies for ritualistic purposes (1 Kings 18:28), especially to mourn their dead and honor their gods. Leviticus 19:28 seems to imply this when it says, “You will not make cuttings in your flesh, for the dead, nor print marks on you.” In light of this information from Egypt and Canaan, it would seem God forbade scarification, not tattooing as we know it.

With this said, while there may be no clear passage in the Bible addressing tattoos, this is hardly a license for unrestrained tattooing. You still need to think before you ink, especially if you’re a Christian. The following Bible verses that can apply to tattoos are guiding questions to help you think through your decision. Study the Bible, pray and ask God for wisdom, and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit.  

(excerpt from "7 Questions to Answer When Considering a Tattoo", Crosswalk.com.)

From the tiniest word on an ankle to a colorful full-body display, tattoos are becoming increasingly prevalent, even among Christians. The Old Testament tells us not to get tattoos, so is it a sin for a Christian to get a tattoo now? Is it as simple as a matter of right or wrong? Listen as Pastor Mike dives into the issue on today's with Mike Fabarez from Focal Point Ministries. Listen now to "Are Tattoos Biblical?"

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