Tattoos have become increasingly prevalent in contemporary culture, serving as expressions of personal identity, beliefs, and experiences. Yet, the Bible contains verses that address the issue of body modification and adornment.
Let’s look into scriptures that offer guidance and insights into the biblical perspective on tattoos, prompting reflection on the significance of body art within the context of faith and spirituality.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Prosperity And Abundance
Bible Verses About Tatoos
Leviticus 19:28
“You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the Lord.”
This verse from Leviticus prohibits the Israelites from getting tattoos or making cuts on their bodies as a form of mourning for the dead. It is a reminder that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and should be treated with respect and reverence.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.”
As Christians, we are called to honor God with our bodies. We are reminded in this verse that our bodies are not our own but belong to God. It is essential to take care of our bodies and make choices that bring glory to Him, including considering the implications of tattoos on our testimony as followers of Christ.
Isaiah 44:5
“One will say, ‘I am the Lord’s,’ and another will call himself by the name of Jacob; Another will write with his hand, ‘The Lord’s,’ and name himself by the name of Israel.”
In this verse, Isaiah prophesies about a time when people will identify themselves as belonging to the Lord and write His name on their hand. It emphasizes the importance of aligning our identity with God and declaring our relationship with Him, rather than seeking to express ourselves through tattoos or physical markings.
1 Peter 3:3-4
“Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.”
Peter encourages believers not to prioritize outward appearance but to focus on cultivating inner beauty and a gentle spirit. This verse reminds us that true beauty comes from within, from a heart that is transformed and reflects the character of Christ. While tattoos may be aesthetically pleasing, they are external adornments that do not necessarily reflect the heart and spirit of a person.
Romans 14:22-23
“Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves. But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not eat from faith; for whatever is not from faith is sin.”
This passage in Romans reminds us that our choices should be guided by faith and the conviction of the Holy Spirit. If someone believes that getting a tattoo goes against their faith or convictions, it is better for them to refrain from getting one. However, if someone has strong faith and has no conviction against tattoos, then it is a matter of personal conscience before God.
Romans 12:2
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
As Christians, we are called to be transformed by the renewing of our minds and not conform to the patterns of this world. When considering whether to get a tattoo, it is important to examine the motivations behind the desire and whether it aligns with God’s will and purpose for our lives.
1 Corinthians 10:23
“All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify.”
This verse reminds us that although we have freedom in Christ, not everything is beneficial or edifying. Before getting a tattoo, we should consider whether it will bring glory to God, positively impact our witness, and strengthen our relationship with Him.
1 Timothy 2:9-10
“In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.”
In this passage, Paul instructs both men and women to focus on inner qualities rather than external adornments. The emphasis is on godliness, good works, and modesty. While tattoos may be a form of personal expression, it is important to consider whether they align with the principles of modesty and godliness.
Jeremiah 31:33
“But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.”
Jeremiah prophesies about the new covenant where God’s law will be written on the hearts and minds of His people. This verse highlights the importance of internalizing God’s Word and allowing it to guide our thoughts, actions, and decisions, rather than relying on external markers such as tattoos.
Colossians 2:16-17
“So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.”
This verse reminds us that our faith is not based on external rituals or markings but on a relationship with Christ. It encourages believers not to place judgment on one another based on outward practices, including tattoos, but to focus on the substance of our faith which is found in Christ alone.
Deuteronomy 14:1
“You are the children of the Lord your God; you shall not cut yourselves nor shave the front of your head for the dead.”
In this verse, the Israelites were prohibited from making cuttings or shaving their heads as a sign of mourning for the dead. It reiterates the principle of using our bodies in a manner that honors God and does not involve self-harm or physical alterations for the sake of mourning.
1 Samuel 16:7
“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
When choosing whether or not to get a tattoo, it is essential to remember that God looks at the heart and not just the outward appearance. While tattoos may be visually appealing, it is more important to cultivate a heart that is devoted to God and reflects His love, grace, and truth.
Galatians 5:1
“Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.”
Through Christ, we have been set free from the bondage of sin and legalistic practices. This verse encourages us to stand firm in our freedom and not be entangled or enslaved by unnecessary rules and regulations, including personal choices such as getting tattoos.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such, there is no law.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of manifesting the fruit of the Holy Spirit in our lives. As we evaluate the decision to get a tattoo, we should consider whether it aligns with the qualities of love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Psalm 139:14
“I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well.”
This beautiful verse celebrates the uniqueness and wonderful craftsmanship of each individual as God’s creation. When considering getting a tattoo, it is important to remember that our bodies are fearfully and wonderfully made by God, and any alterations should be done with reverence and respect for His creation.
Matthew 23:5
“But all their works they do to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries broad and enlarge the borders of their garments.”
This verse describes the hypocrisy of religious leaders who performed religious acts to be seen by others, rather than from a genuine heart of worship. It serves as a reminder to examine our motivations when considering a tattoo – are we seeking attention or validation from others, or are we genuinely expressing our faith and devotion to God?
1 Corinthians 8:9
“But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours becomes a stumbling block to those who are weak.”
As Christians, we have freedom in Christ, but this freedom comes with responsibility. It is important to consider the impact of our choices, including tattoos, on those around us, especially those who may be weaker in their faith or struggle with personal convictions regarding tattoos.
2 Corinthians 6:16
“And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: ‘I will dwell in them And walk among them. I will be their God, And they shall be My people.'”
Believers are referred to as the temple of the living God, and God desires to dwell within us. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the sacredness of our bodies and the importance of honoring God as we make decisions regarding tattoos or any other form of bodily modification.
2 Corinthians 3:3
“Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.”
This verse speaks of believers being a letter or epistle of Christ, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God. It emphasizes the internal transformation and the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, rather than external markings such as tattoos, as the true reflection of our relationship with Christ.
Romans 6:12-13
“Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts. And do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God.”
This verse exhorts believers not to let sin reign in their bodies but instead to offer themselves to God as instruments of righteousness. It reminds us that our bodies are meant to honor and serve God, and we should consider whether getting a tattoo aligns with this purpose and promotes righteousness.
1 Corinthians 6:12
“All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.”
While Christians have freedom in Christ, not all choices are beneficial or edifying. This verse encourages believers to exercise discernment and avoid becoming enslaved or controlled by anything, including personal preferences such as tattoos.
Matthew 6:19-21
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
In this passage, Jesus teaches about the importance of prioritizing eternal treasures over worldly possessions. When considering whether or not to get a tattoo, we should examine our motivations and ensure that our treasures and focus are on heavenly things rather than temporary and earthly desires.
Hebrews 13:8
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”
This verse serves as a reminder of the unchanging nature of Jesus Christ. It highlights the importance of aligning our choices and actions with His teachings and principles, regardless of cultural or societal trends, including the decision to get a tattoo.
Proverbs 31:30
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”
This verse emphasizes the value of character and the fear of the Lord over external beauty or charm. When considering getting a tattoo, one should reflect on whether it enhances or detracts from inner qualities and the fear of the Lord.
1 Timothy 4:8
“For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.”
While physical exercise and appearance have some temporary benefits, they pale in comparison to the value of godliness and spiritual growth. When deciding whether to get a tattoo, it is crucial to prioritize spiritual growth and the development of godly character over external enhancements.
These Bible verses cover different aspects and principles that are relevant to the topic of tattoos. It is important to remember that these verses are not meant to provide a final and conclusive answer for everyone, but to encourage reflection and discernment in light of God’s Word. Each individual must prayerfully seek God’s guidance and make a personal decision based on their convictions and understanding of Scripture.
What Does the Bible Say About Tattoos?
The Bible does not specifically mention tattoos, but it does provide principles that can guide our understanding of this topic. In Leviticus 19:28, the Old Testament law prohibits marking the body with tattoos. Some interpret this as a strict rule against tattoos, while others believe it was a cultural prohibition related to pagan practices.
As Christians, we are under the New Covenant of grace through Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament laws were given to the Israelites for specific cultural and religious reasons, the New Testament emphasizes the importance of the heart and inner obedience to God. We are called to honor and respect our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
When considering getting a tattoo, we should reflect on our motivations and the potential impact on our witness for Christ. Our focus should be on glorifying God in all that we do, including our outward appearance. We also need to be mindful of the perceptions of others, especially if a tattoo may cause them to stumble or be a stumbling block in their faith journey (1 Corinthians 8:9).
Ultimately, the decision to get a tattoo is a personal one and should be made prayerfully and with thoughtful consideration of biblical principles. We should seek guidance from the Holy Spirit, and if in doubt, seek wise counsel from mature believers who can provide biblical perspective and guidance.