What Does The Bible Say About Tattoos

Tattoos are a popular and widely accepted form of self-expression in today’s culture. For Christians, however, the decision to get a tattoo often raises questions about how this practice aligns with Scripture and a biblical worldview. As disciples of Christ, our goal is to honor God in every aspect of our lives, including decisions about our bodies.

Let’s explore what the Bible says about tattoos, offering guidance for Christians who want to make informed and God-honoring choices.

Tattoos in the Old Testament

The Bible explicitly mentions tattoos in Leviticus 19:28:

“You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord.” (ESV)

This verse is part of the Mosaic Law given to the Israelites, emphasizing their distinctiveness from the surrounding pagan cultures. Tattoos and body markings were often associated with idolatry, superstition, and rituals for the dead. By forbidding these practices, God was calling His people to holiness and separation from practices that dishonored Him.

Understanding the Context

It is crucial to interpret this passage within its historical and cultural context. The prohibition was aimed at preserving the purity of Israel as a people set apart for God. The underlying principle of honoring God remains relevant for Christians today, even though we are no longer under the Mosaic Law.

• Romans 12:1-2 reminds us:

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Tattoos in the New Testament

The New Testament does not directly address tattoos. However, it provides principles that help guide our decisions about our bodies and how we glorify God through them.

Honoring God with Our Bodies

As disciples of Christ, we recognize that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit:

• 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.”

This passage calls believers to steward their bodies in ways that honor God. While tattoos may not inherently dishonor God, the motivation and purpose behind getting a tattoo are critical considerations.

Freedom in Christ

Paul reminds us of the liberty we have in Christ:

• Galatians 5:13:

“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”

Our freedom should be exercised responsibly, with a focus on glorifying God and building up others in the faith. When considering a tattoo, we must ask ourselves:

1. Does this glorify God?

2. Does it align with biblical principles?

3. How does it affect my witness to others?

Tattoos and Discipleship

Discipleship involves daily surrender to Christ and intentional growth in faith. Decisions about tattoos should reflect a heart that seeks to glorify God and model Christ-like character.

Motivations Matter

The motivations behind getting a tattoo are crucial. Is it a form of self-expression, a way to honor God, or simply conforming to cultural trends to decorate your body? Scripture warns against pride and seeking approval from the world:

• 1 Samuel 16:7:

“For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

• Colossians 3:17:

“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Accountability in Christian Community

Discipleship thrives in the context of Christian community. Before getting a tattoo, seek counsel from trusted mentors, pastors, or fellow believers who can provide wisdom and biblical insight. Proverbs reminds us of the value of wise counsel:

• Proverbs 11:14:

“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”

Tattoos and Christian Parenting

For parents, guiding children through cultural trends like tattoos requires intentional discipleship and fostering a biblical worldview. Teaching children to prioritize God’s glory in their decisions is essential.

Conversations About Tattoos

When discussing tattoos with children or teens, emphasize:

1. God’s Ownership: Remind them that their bodies belong to God and should reflect His glory.

2. Biblical Principles: Teach them to evaluate their motivations and the potential impact of their decisions on their faith and witness.

3. Wise Stewardship: Encourage thoughtful consideration of long-term consequences and how their choices align with their identity in Christ.

Modeling Faithfulness

Parents have the opportunity to model Christ-like behavior and decision-making. By demonstrating a commitment to God’s Word and prioritizing discipleship, parents can instill values that help their children navigate cultural trends with wisdom and discernment.

Practical Applications for Christians

Questions to Ask Before Getting a Tattoo

1. What is my motivation? Am I seeking to glorify God or draw attention to myself?

2. What does this tattoo communicate? Does it reflect my identity as a follower of Christ?

3. Have I sought counsel? Have I prayed and sought wisdom from trusted believers?

4. What are the long-term implications? Will this decision honor God in the years to come?

Making God-Honoring Decisions

• Pray for wisdom: Seek God’s guidance before making a decision.

• Study Scripture: Align your choices with biblical principles.

• Consider your witness: Reflect on how your decision impacts your testimony to others.

Conclusion

The Bible provides principles that guide Christians in making decisions about tattoos. While Scripture does not explicitly forbid tattoos for believers, it calls us to honor God with our bodies, exercise wisdom and discernment, and prioritize our witness to others. By adopting a biblical worldview and embracing discipleship, we can approach this topic with grace, conviction, and a desire to glorify God in all things.

May we seek to honor the Lord in every decision, including those that involve our bodies, and encourage one another to live as faithful disciples in a world that often prioritizes self-expression over submission to God.

Verses Related to Tattoos:

1. Leviticus 19:28:
   "You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord."
   This verse, often cited, is part of the Old Testament Law given to Israel. While its direct application to modern Christians may be debated, it provides a starting point for understanding the historical context of body markings.

Verses on Stewardship of the Body:

1. 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."
   This passage emphasizes that believers should honor God with their bodies, which includes thoughtful consideration of actions like getting tattoos.

2. Romans 12:1:
   "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship."
   This verse suggests that all actions, including decisions about tattoos, should be made in worship and dedication to God.

Verses on Personal Motives and Conscience:

1. 1 Corinthians 10:31:
   "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."
   This verse challenges believers to ensure their motives align with glorifying God, even in cultural or personal expressions like tattoos.

2. Colossians 3:17:
   "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
   Decisions about tattoos should be made in the name of Jesus, reflecting a heart of gratitude and commitment to Him.

Verses on Appearance and Identity:

1. 1 Peter 3:3-4:
   "Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious."
   This passage reminds believers to prioritize inward character over outward appearance.

2. Galatians 1:10:
   "For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ."
   Christians should evaluate whether their choices, including tattoos, are driven by a desire to honor God or to gain the approval of others.

Verses on Cultural Influence and Witness:

1. Romans 14:13:
   "Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother."
   Tattoos may be permissible, but Christians should consider whether their choices could negatively influence or offend others in their community.

2. 1 Thessalonians 5:22:
   "Abstain from every form of evil."
   This verse encourages discernment in all choices, ensuring they do not align with practices that contradict a godly lifestyle.

Verses on Christian Freedom:

1. 1 Corinthians 10:23:
   "All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up."
   While Christians have freedom in Christ, they must weigh whether tattoos are beneficial and constructive for their spiritual lives and witness.

Biblical Principles to Reflect On:

• Identity in Christ: Tattoos should not define a believer's identity; their primary identity is as a disciple of Christ (Galatians 2:20).

• Testimony: Consider how a tattoo may impact one’s ability to share the gospel or represent Christ effectively (2 Corinthians 5:20).

• Cultural Engagement: Tattoos often carry cultural significance. Christians should reflect on whether their choices align with a biblical worldview or conform to worldly patterns (Romans 12:2).

These additional verses and principles can help believers thoughtfully navigate the topic of tattoos, ensuring their decisions honor God and reflect their faith in all aspects of life.