Tattoos have surged in popularity across the globe, becoming increasingly mainstream and shedding their historical association with rebellion. No longer confined to the fringes of society, tattoos are now embraced by people from all walks of life. This widespread acceptance naturally leads to questions, especially for those of faith: What does the Bible actually say about tattoos?
While the Bible may not explicitly address modern tattooing in the way we understand it today, it offers principles and passages that can guide Christians in making thoughtful decisions about body ink. Let’s delve into what Scripture reveals and how it applies to the contemporary discussion around tattoos.
The New Testament’s Silence on Tattoos
Interestingly, the New Testament remains silent on the specific practice of getting tattoos. You won’t find verses directly prohibiting or condoning tattoos within its pages. This absence of direct instruction means we cannot definitively declare tattooing a sin based solely on New Testament scripture. For believers seeking clear-cut “yes” or “no” answers, this silence can be initially perplexing. However, this silence doesn’t imply permissiveness; rather, it invites us to explore broader biblical principles for guidance. In areas where Scripture offers no explicit command, Christians are often encouraged to exercise discernment and follow their conscience, informed by biblical wisdom.
Leviticus 19:28: An Old Testament Command
The most direct reference to tattoos in the Bible appears in the Old Testament, specifically in Leviticus 19:28, which states: “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD.” This verse is often cited in discussions about the biblical perspective on tattoos, and it’s crucial to understand its context.
This command was given to the Israelites as part of the Mosaic Law. Scholars believe the prohibition against tattoos was likely linked to pagan practices prevalent in surrounding cultures. These cultures often engaged in tattooing as a form of mourning the dead or as a way to dedicate themselves to pagan deities or idols. By forbidding tattoos, God was distinguishing Israel as His chosen people, set apart from the idolatrous practices of their neighbors. He declared, “I am the LORD,” emphasizing His unique authority and the need for His people to reflect His holiness, not pagan customs.
While Christians today are not directly under the Mosaic Law, as we live under the New Covenant of grace through Jesus Christ, the principle behind Leviticus 19:28 still holds relevance. It cautions against practices rooted in paganism or those that blur the lines between God’s people and the world’s idolatrous systems. For modern Christians considering tattoos, this verse encourages reflection on motives and potential associations with non-Christian beliefs or practices.
Key Biblical Principles to Consider
Even without direct New Testament commands about tattoos, several overarching biblical principles can illuminate the path for Christians considering body art. These principles encourage introspection and a focus on living in a way that honors God in all aspects of life.
Honoring Parents
The Bible clearly instructs children to honor and obey their parents (Ephesians 6:1-2). For minors, this principle is particularly relevant. If a young person desires a tattoo against their parents’ wishes, it would be biblically inconsistent to proceed. Furthermore, tattoos acquired out of rebellion against authority figures are considered sinful because rebellion itself is contrary to God’s order. This principle underscores the importance of respect and submission within family relationships, particularly during formative years.
Inner Beauty vs. Outward Adornment
The Apostle Peter encourages believers to prioritize inner beauty over outward adornment (1 Peter 3:3-4). He emphasizes that true beauty lies in a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God’s sight. While this passage doesn’t directly forbid outward adornment, it provides a valuable perspective. If the primary motivation for getting a tattoo is to seek attention, gain admiration, or excessively focus on physical appearance, it may reflect a misplaced emphasis on external validation rather than cultivating inner character. Christians are called to focus on developing their hearts and minds to be more like Christ, allowing inner transformation to be their primary pursuit.
Glorifying God
A foundational principle for all Christian living is to glorify God in everything we do (1 Corinthians 10:31). This includes decisions about our bodies. The question to ask is: Does getting a tattoo ultimately bring glory to God? Motivations such as “fitting in,” “standing out,” or purely aesthetic reasons may fall short of this higher calling. While the tattoo itself might not inherently be sinful, the underlying motivations should be examined. A Christian’s actions, including body modifications, should be driven by a desire to honor God and reflect His character to the world.
The Body as a Temple
The Bible teaches that the believer’s body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This profound truth highlights the sacredness of our physical bodies, redeemed and belonging to God. Considering this, Christians may grapple with the question: How much modification of this temple is appropriate? While personal preferences and artistic expression are valid, there’s a need for thoughtful reflection. Is there a point where excessive tattooing could be viewed as defacing or disrespecting the temple of the Holy Spirit? This is a matter of personal conviction and prayerful consideration, as individuals seek to steward their bodies in a way that honors God.
Ambassador for Christ
Christians are called to be ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), representing Him and His message to the world. Therefore, it’s important to consider what message a tattoo might convey and whether it will aid or hinder in representing Christ and sharing the Gospel. In some cultures, tattoos may carry negative connotations or be associated with specific subcultures that could create barriers to communication and receptivity to the Gospel. Discerning the potential impact of a tattoo on one’s witness is a crucial aspect of Christian decision-making.
Faith and Conviction
Finally, Romans 14:23 reminds us that “whatever does not come from faith is sin.” This principle underscores the importance of acting in faith and according to one’s conscience. For a Christian considering a tattoo, it’s essential to be fully convinced that it aligns with God’s will for them. If there is doubt or unease, it’s wise to err on the side of caution. Ultimately, personal conviction before God is paramount in such matters of Christian freedom.
Conclusion: Christian Freedom and Responsible Choices
In conclusion, the Bible doesn’t offer a definitive “yes” or “no” answer to the question of tattoos for Christians. The New Testament is silent on the matter, while the Old Testament prohibition in Leviticus 19:28 is understood within its historical and cultural context. Therefore, getting a tattoo is not inherently a sin.
Instead of rigid rules, Christians are called to exercise Christian freedom responsibly, guided by biblical principles and rooted in love for God and others. The principles discussed—honoring parents, prioritizing inner beauty, glorifying God, respecting the body as a temple, representing Christ well, and acting in faith—provide a framework for thoughtful decision-making.
Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to get a tattoo is a matter of personal conviction for each Christian. It should be approached with prayerful consideration, seeking God’s wisdom, and ensuring that our motivations and actions align with His desire for us to live lives that are pleasing and honoring to Him.
