What Does the Bible Say About Tattoos?

Ever found yourself staring at a tattoo design you love, then suddenly wondering, “Wait… what does the Bible say about tattoos?” If so, you’re not alone.

Whether you’re a devoted Christian, new to faith, or just spiritually curious, it’s totally normal to want to align personal choices—like body art—with your beliefs. Tattoos today can be deeply personal, artistic, and meaningful. But what about from a biblical perspective?

Let’s dive into this together and figure out why tattoos are a sin in Christianity. Does the Bible say not to get tattoos? Or is it all just a big misunderstanding?

My Take: Faith, Ink, and Questions

I’ll be real with you—I’ve got friends who are strong believers, and they have tattoos of crosses, verses, even portraits of Jesus. On the flip side, I’ve met folks who avoid tattoos altogether because they believe the Bible says no tattoos, period.

That’s why I wanted to explore this topic not just from a theological lens, but also a real-world, relatable point of view. Because hey, faith is a journey, and questions like these matter.

What Does It Say About Tattoos in the Bible?

The Go-To Verse: Leviticus 19:28

Let’s start with the only Bible verse that explicitly mentions tattoos:

“Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.”
— Leviticus 19:28 (NIV)

This is where the debate starts. Some Christians take this verse as a clear directive: tattoos are a sin. But hold up—context matters.

A Look at the Cultural Context

Back in ancient times, tattooing was often connected to pagan rituals, idol worship, or mourning the dead. So Leviticus 19:28 wasn’t talking about modern tattoos of your mom’s name or a tiny butterfly on your wrist.

It was addressing specific cultural practices that went against God’s commandments to the Israelites.

Quick recap

• Does the Bible say anything about tattoos? Yes, but only in Leviticus.
• Does the Bible say not to get tattoos? It depends on how you interpret that context.
• Is this verse still relevant today? Let’s explore that next.

Old Testament vs. New Testament Teachings

Tattoos Forbidden in the Old Testament?

Yep. The Old Testament has a bunch of rules—over 600! These include not eating shellfish, not wearing clothes made of mixed fabrics, and yes, tattoos are forbidden in the Old Testament.

But here’s the twist: Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament law (see Matthew 5:17).

So what does that mean?

We’re not under the Old Covenant anymore. Christians live under grace through Jesus, not through ceremonial laws.

What About the New Testament?

Surprisingly (or maybe not), the New Testament doesn’t mention tattoos at all.

There’s no verse in the New Testament that says, “Christians can’t have tattoos.”

So if you’re looking for a Bible verse about not getting tattoos in the New Testament, you won’t find one.

Does the Bible Say Tattoos Are a Sin?

Let’s break it down:

• Does the Bible say tattoos are a sin? Not directly.
• Are tattoos sinful Bible? Only Leviticus 19:28, and that depends on interpretation.
• Is getting a tattoo always wrong? That’s where it gets personal.

If your intention is to glorify God, honor your body, and not cause harm to others, many would argue there’s nothing sinful about that.

But…

If your tattoo reflects violence, rebellion, or dishonors your faith, well, that’s a whole different story.

Common Biblical Arguments Against Tattoos

Some believers use these biblical teachings to argue against tattoos:

1. Your Body Is a Temple

1 Corinthians 6:19-20:
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit…?”

The idea is that tattooing might “damage” God’s temple. But here’s the thing: this verse is actually talking about sexual immorality, not ink. Still, it’s worth thinking about how we treat our bodies.

2. Avoiding Worldly Appearances

Some say tattoos align with worldly behavior, which Christians should avoid (Romans 12:2). Again, interpretation is key.

3. Causing Others to Stumble

If your tattoo might offend another believer or shake someone’s faith, some argue it’s best to skip it. That’s based on Romans 14.

What Does the Bible Say About Tattoos? (KJV vs. NIV)

Wondering if wording changes things? Let’s compare:

• KJV (King James Version):
  “Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you…”
• NIV (New International Version):
  “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves…”

See the difference? “Print any marks” vs. “tattoo marks.” Modern translations use clearer language, but the meaning still comes down to interpretation.

Most biblical scholars agree this was about pagan mourning rituals, not your butterfly ankle tattoo.

Reddit Debates: What Does the Bible Say About Tattoos (Reddit’s Take)

If you’ve ever gone down the Reddit rabbit hole searching what does the Bible say about tattoos Reddit, you’ll find every opinion under the sun:

• Some users say tattoos are fine if the intention is pure.
• Others argue the body must remain untouched.
• A few even say tattoos can be a witnessing tool, like sharing scripture or personal testimony.

Takeaway? You’ll always find both sides. Which brings us to…

Are Tattoos a Sin in Christianity?

Let’s keep it simple:

• Tattoos = not inherently sinful.
• Your intentions = everything.
• Your personal conviction = what matters most.

The Bible is big on heart posture. So if you feel peace, clarity, and alignment with your faith, you’re probably on the right track.

Biblical Meaning of Tattoos Today

Many Christians get tattoos as a symbol of their faith:

• A cross to remember salvation.
• A dove for peace.
• A date to mark a spiritual milestone.
• A verse that carried them through hard times.

Tattoos can be modern-day testimonies. And that’s powerful.

Just ask yourself:

• Why do I want this tattoo?
• Does it glorify God?
• Could it affect how others see my witness?

Final Thoughts: So… Can Christians Get Tattoos?

Let’s wrap this up with a quick cheat sheet:

Things to Consider Before Getting a Tattoo (As a Christian)

• Pray about it. Ask God for peace and wisdom.
• Think long-term. Is this something you’ll still want in 20 years?
• Choose meaning over trend. Let your ink reflect your values.
• Avoid anything offensive. Especially images or words that could harm your witness.

TL;DR Summary: What Does the Bible Say About Tattoos?

• The Bible mentions tattoos in Leviticus 19:28, referring to pagan mourning rituals.
• No New Testament verse prohibits tattoos.
• Intent matters more than ink.
• Tattoos that honor your faith and reflect love, truth, or your journey? Many believe those are totally OK.
• Ultimately, it’s between you and God.

Your Next Move?

Still unsure? Talk with a trusted pastor or friend in faith. Get clarity before you commit.

Or maybe this article gave you that final “ah-ha!” moment. If so, awesome. Just remember: your faith isn’t skin deep—it’s lived every day.

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