Tattoos often spark questions among Christians about faith, culture, and self-expression. Today, we’ll examine what the Bible says about markings on the body and how it encourages us to honor God in every choice.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Body Soul And Spirit
What Does The Bible Say About Body Tattoos
Leviticus 19:28
“Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.”
This verse in Leviticus prohibits the Israelites from cutting their bodies for the dead or tattooing themselves. It emphasizes the holiness and reverence that should be given to the body as it is created by God. The act of tattooing was associated with pagan rituals and practices that the Israelites were instructed to avoid. Therefore, this verse teaches believers to respect and honor their bodies, recognizing that they are temples of the Holy Spirit.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”
This passage from 1 Corinthians reminds Christians that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. It urges believers to honor God by taking care of their bodies and treating them with respect. By understanding that they belong to God and were purchased by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, Christians are called to live in a way that reflects God’s holiness and righteousness in all aspects of their lives, including their physical bodies.
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
This verse encourages believers to be a light to the world, reflecting the goodness and love of God through their actions. While it does not directly address tattoos, it highlights the importance of living in a way that brings glory to God. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should reflect on whether it aligns with their desire to shine God’s light and bring Him honor. They should ensure that their motives are pure and that the tattoo does not detract from their witness or cause others to stumble in their faith.
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
This verse calls believers to offer their bodies as a living sacrifice to God, recognizing that true worship involves giving all areas of their lives to Him. It implies that our physical bodies are a significant part of our worship and should be presented as holy and pleasing to God. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should consider whether it aligns with their commitment to offer their bodies as a sacrifice to God and if it enhances or detracts from their ability to worship Him wholeheartedly.
1 Peter 3:3-4
“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
This passage reminds believers that their true beauty comes from within, from possessing a gentle and humble spirit. It emphasizes that external adornments, like elaborate hairstyles or jewelry, should not be the primary focus of a Christian’s identity. While tattoos can be considered a form of outward adornment, believers should prioritize cultivating inner qualities that reflect God’s character rather than placing excessive importance on external appearances.
1 Samuel 16:7
“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'”
This verse serves as a reminder that God sees beyond outward appearances and looks at the heart. While tattoos are a visible form of self-expression, they should not be the sole determinant of a person’s worth or character. Christians should prioritize cultivating a heart that is pleasing to God, focusing on their spiritual growth and relationship with Him rather than placing excessive emphasis on external symbols.
Colossians 3:17
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
This verse encourages believers to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, acknowledging that their actions and choices should align with God’s will. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should evaluate whether it can be done in the name of Jesus and if it aligns with their desire to honor Him. They should seek to give thanks to God in all aspects of their lives, including their decision to get a tattoo, ensuring that it does not contradict or bring dishonor to their faith.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
This verse reminds believers that everything they do should be done for the glory of God. It emphasizes the importance of aligning one’s actions and choices with God’s purposes and desires. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should evaluate whether it can be done to bring glory to God. They should consider how their tattoo reflects their faith and if it can be a testimony or point others to God’s love and grace.
1 Corinthians 8:9
“Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.”
This verse warns believers to be cautious not to cause others to stumble or be led astray by their actions. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should consider the potential impact it may have on others. They should be sensitive to how their choices may be perceived by those who have different convictions or struggles. While tattoos themselves are not inherently sinful, Christians should exercise their freedom with wisdom and love, ensuring that their actions do not become stumbling blocks for others.
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
This well-known verse reminds believers that they can do all things through Christ who gives them strength. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should rely on God’s strength and guidance to make the decision. They should seek His wisdom and discernment, trusting that He will equip them to make choices that align with His will and bring glory to His name.
Psalm 139:14
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
This verse expresses gratitude to God for fearfully and wonderfully creating each individual. It emphasizes that God’s works are marvelous and worthy of praise. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should remember that they are fearfully and wonderfully made by God. They should ensure that their decision aligns with their appreciation for God’s creation and that it does not compromise their understanding of their inherent worth as His beloved children.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”
This passage describes the fruit of the Spirit, which are the qualities that believers should demonstrate in their lives. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should assess whether it promotes or conflicts with the fruits of the Spirit, such as love, peace, and self-control. They should strive to align their choices with the character of Christ and ensure that their tattoos reflect these virtues and contribute to a life that is lived in accordance with God’s commands.
Proverbs 31:30
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”
This verse highlights the importance of inner qualities and character over external appearances. It acknowledges that charm and beauty are subjective and transitory, while a woman who fears the Lord is praiseworthy. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should remember that true beauty comes from a heart that fears and honors the Lord. They should prioritize developing inner qualities that align with God’s standards rather than placing excessive importance on external adornments.
Ephesians 5:1-2
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
This verse calls believers to imitate God and walk in love, following the example of Christ. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should evaluate whether it contributes to their ability to love others sacrificially and emulate Christ’s selflessness. They should ensure that their tattoo choice aligns with a desire to honor God and serve as a reminder of His unconditional love and sacrifice.
Galatians 6:7
“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
This verse serves as a reminder that there are consequences for our actions and choices. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should reflect on whether their choice aligns with their desire to honor God. They should consider if the tattoo reflects their values and if it will yield positive or negative outcomes in their lives and influence their spiritual journey.
James 4:17
“If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of acting in accordance with what one knows is good and right. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should evaluate whether it aligns with their understanding of what is good and pleasing to God. They should ensure that their decision is made with integrity and wisdom, considering if getting a tattoo or the specific design they are considering is consistent with their Christian beliefs and values.
Proverbs 20:9
“Who can say, ‘I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin’?”
This verse acknowledges the inherent sinfulness of humanity. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should recognize that tattoos themselves are not sinful, but they should prayerfully evaluate their motives and the potential impact on their faith and witness. They should always strive for purity of heart and integrity in their choices, relying on God’s grace and forgiveness when they fall short.
1 Thessalonians 5:22
“Reject every kind of evil.”
This verse instructs believers to reject every form of evil. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should discern whether the specific design or imagery is aligned with God’s principles and teachings. They should avoid tattoos that promote or glorify sinful or immoral behavior, seeking to make choices that honor and please God in all aspects of their lives.
2 Corinthians 6:16
“What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: ‘I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.'”
This verse reminds believers that they are temples of the living God, and as such, they should be mindful of the things that they allow into their lives, including tattoos. While tattoos themselves may not be considered idols, Christians should exercise caution and discernment to ensure that their choice of tattoos does not contradict their identity as God’s temple or compromise their allegiance to Him.
2 Timothy 2:22
“Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
This verse encourages believers to flee from evil desires and instead pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should assess whether their desire for a tattoo is rooted in worldly or impure motivations, or if it aligns with their pursuit of a pure heart and a life that honors God. They should seek to surround themselves with fellow believers who can provide accountability and offer guidance in making choices that reflect their commitment to Christ.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
This well-known passage encourages believers to trust in the Lord wholeheartedly and submit to His guidance and wisdom. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should rely on God’s direction and discernment, seeking His will rather than solely relying on their own understanding. They should submit their desires and choices to Him, trusting that He will guide them on the right path for their lives.
Romans 2:23-24
“You who boast in the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law? As it is written: ‘God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.'”
This verse challenges believers not to dishonor God by breaking His commandments. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should evaluate whether their decision aligns with God’s laws and instructions. They should be mindful of how their choice may be perceived by others, and whether it has the potential to bring dishonor to God or cause His name to be blasphemed. Christians should make choices that accurately represent their faith and glorify God in their actions.
1 Corinthians 6:12
“‘I have the right to do anything,’ you say—but not everything is beneficial. ‘I have the right to do anything’—but I will not be mastered by anything.”
This verse acknowledges that while believers have freedom in Christ, not everything is beneficial or edifying. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should evaluate whether it is beneficial and whether it will have a positive influence on their lives and their relationship with God. They should also ensure that their desire for a tattoo does not become a master over them, leading to an unhealthy obsession or faulty prioritization.
Psalm 119:105
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
This verse celebrates the illuminating and guiding power of God’s word. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should find wisdom and guidance in the Scriptures. They should seek to align their choices with God’s word, allowing His truth to act as a lamp to their feet and a light to their path. By immersing themselves in God’s word, they can make informed decisions that honor and please Him.
Psalm 33:21
“In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.”
This verse emphasizes the joy and confidence that believers can experience by placing their trust in God’s holy name. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should evaluate whether their decision reflects their trust and dependence on God. They should ensure that their tattoo choice brings them joy and serves as a reminder of the faithfulness and goodness of their Lord.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
This well-known verse reassures believers of God’s plans for their lives and His desire to bring them hope and a future. When considering getting a tattoo, Christians should reflect on whether their choice aligns with God’s plans and purpose for their lives. They should seek wisdom in discerning if their tattoo serves as a reminder of God’s promises and brings them closer to the hope and future He has in store for them.