The question of whether getting a tattoo is a sin is a common one, particularly within Christianity. Often, the discussion begins and sometimes ends with a single verse from the Bible: Leviticus 19:28, which states, “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD.” However, understanding this issue requires a deeper look into biblical context and Christian principles beyond a single verse.
Those who argue against tattoos frequently cite Leviticus 19:28 as definitive proof that it is a sin. They present it as a straightforward command from God. However, this interpretation overlooks the fact that the Old Testament Law, especially the Book of Leviticus, contains numerous commandments that are not strictly followed by Christians today. For instance, the verse preceding the one about tattoos, Leviticus 19:27, commands, “Do not cut the hair at the sides of your head or clip off the edges of your beard.” If we are to take Leviticus 19:28 as an absolute prohibition against tattoos, consistency would demand we also adhere to all other laws in Leviticus, which is not typically the practice within Christianity. Furthermore, the mention of “cutting your bodies for the dead” in Leviticus 19:28 suggests the prohibition might be specifically against pagan rituals associated with mourning practices, rather than tattooing in all contexts.
A crucial point to consider is that Jesus Christ’s arrival, death, and resurrection are understood in Christian theology to have fulfilled the Old Testament Law. Romans 10:4, Galatians 3:23-25, and Ephesians 2:15 are often cited to support the idea that the Law’s requirements are no longer binding on Christians in the same way. Therefore, the specific prohibition against tattoos in Leviticus 19:28 is not generally considered a direct command for contemporary followers of Jesus Christ.
Conversely, some who believe getting tattoos is acceptable for Christians argue that because the New Testament does not explicitly forbid tattoos, they must be permissible. They might even point to Revelation 19:16, which describes Jesus with a name written “on his robe and on his thigh: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.” It’s sometimes suggested this is a depiction of Jesus with a tattoo. However, the text in Revelation 19:16 does not explicitly state it is a tattoo. The inscription could be written, symbolic, or even a temporary marking. Interpreting this verse as literal permission for Christians to get tattoos is a significant interpretive leap and not directly supported by the text itself. Moreover, the Bible’s silence on a particular issue doesn’t automatically equate to approval.
So, if both arguments based on isolated scripture interpretations have flaws, how should Christians approach the question of tattoos? The core of the issue seems to revolve around the concept of Christian freedom. It would be simpler if faith provided a detailed checklist of permissible and forbidden actions. However, Christian freedom necessitates examining our motivations and intentions in light of our faith. Christians sometimes lean towards legalism, seeking rigid rules, or antinomianism, emphasizing freedom without considering Christian responsibility.
Perhaps the most relevant guidance can be found in Romans 14:23, which states, “But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; for everything that does not come from faith is sin.” This verse highlights the importance of acting in faith and conviction. If there is genuine doubt about whether getting a tattoo aligns with one’s understanding of God’s will, then proceeding with it could be considered sin for that individual, as it would not be an action rooted in faith. As Christians, our actions should stem from a conviction that they are pleasing and honoring to God. We should not simply follow trends or the opinions of others without personal faith-based conviction.
Considering 1 Corinthians 6:12 and 10:23, we read, “Everything is permissible for me—but not everything is beneficial,” and “Everything is permissible—but not everything is constructive.” These verses emphasize that while Christian freedom allows for many things, not all choices are necessarily beneficial or edifying. Getting a tattoo might be permissible within the scope of Christian freedom, but the question remains whether it is beneficial, constructive, and ultimately glorifying to God in an individual’s life.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to get a tattoo is a matter of personal conscience and faith before God. If an individual is genuinely convinced that getting a tattoo would be an expression of their faith, bring honor to God, and enhance their witness in the world, then it is a matter between them and God. However, if there is doubt or a lack of conviction, it is wise to err on the side of caution, as “whatever does not proceed from faith is sin” (Romans 14:23). The crucial element is to approach the decision with prayerful consideration, seeking God’s guidance, and acting in accordance with one’s faith and conscience.
