What does the Bible say about tattoos?

Tattoos have become increasingly popular across the world, shedding much of the rebellious stigma they once carried. Today, tattoos are no longer associated solely with delinquents or nonconformists but have become mainstream forms of self-expression.

Does the Bible Address Tattoos?

The New Testament does not explicitly address whether Christians should get tattoos, and there is no clear command that would classify getting a tattoo as sinful. Because Scripture is silent on the matter, tattoos fall into a “gray area,” meaning they are subject to individual conviction and discretion. Believers should carefully consider their motivations and respect the convictions of others who may view tattoos differently.

Biblical Principles to Consider

Several scriptural principles can guide believers in deciding whether or not to get a tattoo:

1. Obedience to Parents
   Children are instructed to honor and obey their parents (Ephesians 6:1–2: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother—this is the first commandment with a promise.”). If a minor’s parents disapprove of tattoos, it would be biblically inappropriate for the child to get one. Tattoos born out of rebellion against parental authority are sinful.

2. Focus on Inner Beauty
   1 Peter 3:3–4 teaches that outward adornment should not be our primary focus: “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.” A person seeking a tattoo for attention or admiration may be driven by vanity, which is sinful.

3. Glorify God in All Things
   Our actions, including decisions about tattoos, should glorify God. 1 Corinthians 10:31 states: “So, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” Motivations such as wanting to “fit in” or “stand out” fall short of glorifying God. While the tattoo itself may not be sinful, the motivation behind it could be.

4. Respect for the Body as God’s Temple
   Believers are reminded in 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.” The body belongs to God, and modifications should be approached with careful thought. Excessive or harmful tattooing could cross into the realm of sinful misuse.

5. Ambassadors for Christ
   Christians are representatives of Christ to the world. 2 Corinthians 5:20 states: “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.” A believer considering a tattoo should reflect on the message it sends and whether it aligns with the call to share the gospel and represent Christ faithfully.

6. Acting in Faith
   Romans 14:23 reminds us: “But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.” Any decision about tattoos should be made with a clear conscience, rooted in faith and a sense of God’s approval.

Old Testament Prohibition on Tattoos

Leviticus 19:28 states: “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.” This prohibition was part of the Mosaic Law and likely tied to pagan practices of the time, such as marking the body to honor idols or engage in superstitious rituals. God commanded the Israelites to remain distinct from the surrounding nations, as they were His people. While Christians are not under the Mosaic Law (Romans 10:4; Galatians 3:23–25), we can draw from this verse the principle that tattoos should not be used to promote worldly philosophies, idols, or superstitious beliefs.

Conclusion

Getting a tattoo is not inherently sinful. It is a matter of Christian freedom and personal conviction. Believers should prayerfully consider their motivations, examine how the tattoo aligns with biblical principles, and ensure it is done in a way that glorifies God. As in all things, love and respect for others should guide decisions, especially in matters of differing convictions.

The Bible does not provide a comprehensive teaching on tattoos but does contain principles and one specific Old Testament verse that can guide Christians in their decisions about tattoos.

Old Testament Prohibition

The only direct mention of tattoos in the Bible is found in Leviticus 19:28:
"Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord."
This command was part of the Mosaic Law given to the Israelites. It likely referred to pagan rituals where people marked their bodies in honor of false gods or as superstitious acts. God wanted His people to be distinct from the surrounding nations and not engage in idolatrous practices.

However, Christians are not under the Mosaic Law (see Romans 10:4 and Galatians 3:23–25), so this prohibition is not binding for believers today. The principle of avoiding practices that dishonor God or align with idolatry can still apply.

New Testament Principles

Although the New Testament does not explicitly address tattoos, several biblical principles can help guide a Christian's decision:

1. Our Bodies are God’s Temple
   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."
   Christians are called to honor God with their bodies. Any decision about modifying the body, including getting a tattoo, should reflect this principle.

2. Glorify God in All You Do
   1 Corinthians 10:31: "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."
   A believer’s motivation for getting a tattoo should align with the goal of glorifying God. Self-centered or vain motives are inconsistent with this principle.

3. Ambassadors for Christ
   2 Corinthians 5:20: "We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us."
   Christians represent Christ in the world. A tattoo’s design and message should reflect Christ’s character and not detract from the believer’s testimony.

4. Avoid Stumbling Others
   Romans 14:13: "Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister."
   If getting a tattoo could cause another believer to stumble or struggle with their faith, it may be wise to reconsider.

5. Act According to Faith
   Romans 14:23: "But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin."
   Christians should feel fully confident in their decision to get a tattoo. Acting against personal convictions or a lack of clarity may lead to sin.

Motivation Matters

The heart behind the decision to get a tattoo is critical. Tattoos that promote vanity, rebellion, or worldly ideals are inconsistent with a believer’s calling. Tattoos done in faith, with a clear conscience, and for purposes that align with glorifying God may be acceptable.

Conclusion

The Bible does not explicitly declare tattoos to be sinful. However, believers should prayerfully consider their motivations and how a tattoo may affect their testimony, spiritual life, and relationships. Ultimately, it is a personal decision that should be made with wisdom, faith, and a desire to honor God.