The Bible discusses the topic of markings and adornments in the context of worship and culture. Today, we’ll explore what Scripture says about body piercings and tattoos and how these teachings apply to modern believers.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Body Piercings
What Does The Bible Say About Body Piercings And 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 emphasizes the prohibition of cutting one’s body or getting tattoos. It serves as a reminder that God sets boundaries for His people and expects them to honor and respect their bodies, which are temples of the Holy Spirit.
While this verse is often cited when discussing body piercings and tattoos, it is important to consider its context in the Old Testament law. Christians today should approach the subject of body modifications with discernment and seek to glorify God in all aspects of their lives.
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.”
These verses from Corinthians remind us that our bodies belong to God and are temples of the Holy Spirit. As such, we are called to honor and care for our bodies in a way that brings glory to Him.
While the Bible does not directly address body piercings and tattoos, these practices should be approached with caution and discernment. Christians should consider whether these choices align with the principles of honoring God and reflecting His character in their lives.
1 Peter 3:3-4
“Do not adorn yourselves outwardly by braiding your hair and by wearing gold ornaments or fine clothing; rather, let your adornment be the inner self with the lasting beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in God’s sight.”
In this passage, Peter emphasizes the value of inner beauty and a gentle, quiet spirit over outward adornment. While specifically addressing hairstyles and accessories, these verses can be applied to the topic of body piercings and tattoos as well.
Christians should prioritize the development of their character and the pursuit of a Christ-like disposition rather than relying on external appearance to define their worth. Personal choices related to body modifications should align with the biblical principles of modesty, self-control, and humility.
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 from 1 Samuel reminds us that God sees beyond outward appearances and focuses on the heart and character of individuals. While body piercings and tattoos may be visible expressions of personal style, they should not be the sole basis for judging a person’s worth or spiritual maturity.
Christians should strive to cultivate a heart that is devoted to God and seek to reflect His love and grace through their actions, rather than relying on external appearances as a measure of spirituality.
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.”
These verses from Galatians highlight the qualities that should be evident in the lives of believers through the work of the Holy Spirit. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control should be the focus of a Christian’s identity, rather than outward appearances or body modifications.
While body piercings and tattoos may not be inherently sinful, Christians should examine their motives and whether these choices are in line with the fruit of the Spirit. It is important to ensure that personal style decisions do not distract from the primary calling to love and serve God and others.
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.”
These words from the book of Romans remind believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices to God, dedicating themselves to His service. As followers of Christ, we are called to honor Him with our whole being, including our physical bodies.
When considering body piercings and tattoos, Christians should evaluate whether these choices align with their commitment to a life dedicated to God. It is important to approach these decisions prayerfully and seek guidance from the Holy Spirit in order to ensure that they are in line with God’s will.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
This verse in Corinthians encourages believers to do everything, including the choices they make regarding their bodies, for the glory of God. It serves as a reminder that our actions should reflect our commitment to honoring and serving Him.
When considering body piercings and tattoos, Christians should evaluate whether these choices bring glory to God or potentially distract from His purposes. It is important to approach these decisions with discernment and wisdom, seeking to align them with God’s will and the principles outlined in His Word.
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.”
These verses from Colossians remind believers to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and to offer thanks to God. This includes the choices we make regarding our bodies and personal style.
While body piercings and tattoos may not be directly mentioned in this verse, Christians should evaluate whether these choices align with their commitment to live for Christ. It is important to ensure that personal style decisions are made with gratitude to God and reflect a desire to represent Him well in all areas of life.
Psalm 139:14
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
This verse from Psalm celebrates the awe-inspiring craftsmanship of God in creating each individual. It reminds us of the intrinsic value and uniqueness with which God has designed each person.
When considering body piercings and tattoos, Christians should remember that they are fearfully and wonderfully made by God. They should approach personal style decisions with a desire to enhance and honor the natural beauty and design that God has given them, rather than seeking to conform to societal standards or trends.
1 Corinthians 3:16-17
“Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person; for God’s temple is sacred, and you together are that temple.”
These verses from Corinthians remind believers that they are temples of the Holy Spirit, and God’s Spirit dwells within them. The sanctity and sacredness of the body as a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit are emphasized.
When considering body piercings and tattoos, Christians should approach these choices with an understanding of the sacredness of their bodies. They should strive to honor God in how they present themselves, ensuring that any modifications align with the principles of honoring and respecting the temple of the Holy Spirit.
1 Timothy 2:9
“I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes.”
In this passage, Paul calls for women to dress modestly, focusing on inner qualities rather than outward adornment. While specifically addressing clothing and accessories, these principles can be extended to include body piercings and tattoos.
When considering body modifications, women (and men) should approach these choices with a desire to honor God through modesty and humility. Personal style decisions should not draw excessive attention or promote vanity but should instead reflect a heart focused on glorifying God and edifying others.
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 dominated by anything.”
These words from Corinthians remind believers of the importance of discernment and self-control in their choices. While many things may be permissible, not all are beneficial or edifying.
When considering body piercings and tattoos, Christians should assess whether these choices are helpful or potentially distracting in their walk with Christ. It is important to exercise self-control and not allow these practices to dominate or become an unhealthy obsession in one’s life.
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.”
These verses from Matthew call believers to be a light to the world, reflecting the goodness and glory of God through their actions and choices. This includes personal style decisions, such as body piercings and tattoos.
When considering these choices, Christians should evaluate whether they contribute to or hinder their ability to be a positive influence on others. Personal style decisions should aim to point others towards God and bring glory to Him rather than drawing attention solely to oneself.
1 Corinthians 8:9
“Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.”
These words from Corinthians remind believers to be mindful of the impact their choices may have on others, particularly those who are weaker in their faith. While certain choices may be permissible, they should not cause others to stumble or be led astray.
When considering body piercings and tattoos, Christians should be aware of how these choices may be perceived by others, especially those who may find them problematic or be influenced negatively. It is important to exercise discernment and consider the impact on fellow believers and the testimony of one’s faith.
1 Corinthians 10:23
“‘I have the right to do anything,’ you say—but not everything is beneficial. ‘I have the right to do anything’—but not everything is constructive.”
These verses from Corinthians emphasize the importance of discernment and considering the overall benefit and constructiveness of one’s choices. While certain actions may be permissible, they may not necessarily be beneficial or contribute positively to one’s spiritual growth.
When considering body piercings and tattoos, Christians should evaluate whether these choices contribute to their overall well-being and spiritual edification. Personal style decisions should align with the principles of building up one’s faith and reflecting the character of Christ.
1 Corinthians 14:40
“But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.”
These words from Corinthians emphasize the importance of conducting oneself in a fitting and orderly manner. While specifically referring to the exercise of spiritual gifts in the church, this principle can be applied to personal style choices as well.
When considering body piercings and tattoos, Christians should assess whether these choices align with the overall fittingness and orderliness of their lives as followers of Christ. Personal style decisions should not be reckless or disorderly but should reflect a commitment to living in a manner consistent with the teachings of the Bible.
1 Thessalonians 5:22
“Abstain from every form of evil.”
These words from Thessalonians urge believers to abstain from every form of evil. While body piercings and tattoos may not be inherently evil, Christians should consider whether they have the potential to lead them into practices or associations that are contrary to the teachings of the Bible.
When considering these choices, Christians should exercise caution and discernment, evaluating whether they may expose them to harmful influences or compromise their walk with Christ. Personal style decisions should be made in alignment with the biblical principles of holiness and righteousness.
Ephesians 5:1-2
“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
These verses from Ephesians call believers to imitate God and walk in love, following the example of Christ’s sacrificial love. They remind Christians of the standard of love and selflessness to which they are called.
When considering body piercings and tattoos, Christians should evaluate whether these choices align with the example of Christ’s sacrificial love. Personal style decisions should not be self-centered or driven by worldly desires but should reflect a heart that seeks to love and serve others in a manner that pleases God.
James 1:17
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
This verse from James serves as a reminder that every good and perfect gift comes from God. It directs believers to recognize that their bodies, as well as their personal style choices, are gifts from the Father.
When considering body piercings and tattoos, Christians should approach these choices with gratitude and a desire to honor God. Personal style decisions should reflect an understanding that they are blessings from God and should be used to bring Him glory rather than seeking to conform to worldly standards or trends.
Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
These verses from Philippians call believers to focus their thoughts on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. They emphasize the importance of aligning one’s mind with godly principles and values.
When considering body piercings and tattoos, Christians should evaluate whether these choices align with the qualities mentioned in Philippians. Personal style decisions should reflect a focus on what is true, lovely, and praiseworthy, rather than potentially promoting values or messages that conflict with biblical principles.
2 Corinthians 4:16
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.”
These words from Corinthians encourage believers to remain steadfast and not lose heart, knowing that while their outward bodies may deteriorate, their inward selves can be continually renewed through the work of the Holy Spirit.
When considering body piercings and tattoos, Christians should approach these choices with an understanding that physical appearance is temporary and not as significant as the condition of the heart. Personal style decisions should not be driven by a desire for external validation but should reflect a heart that seeks continual renewal and transformation through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
In this verse from Ecclesiastes, the author reminds us that there is a time and season for every activity. While not specifically mentioning body piercings and tattoos, this principle can be applied to personal style choices.
When considering these choices, Christians should evaluate whether it is the appropriate time and season for these modifications. Personal style decisions should be made in alignment with one’s stage of life, cultural context, and the leading of the Holy Spirit.