Have you ever noticed how a simple tattoo can spark a conversation? Just like the author of the original article, Jan Walker, experienced with her wrist tattoo, body ink often becomes a focal point, inviting questions and even debates. Jan’s tattoo, a symbol of her recovery from anorexia, unexpectedly opened dialogues, especially amongst fellow Christians, about the intersection of faith and body modification. This leads us to a frequently asked question within the Christian community: Is Getting Tattoos A Sin?
This question often arises from interpretations of biblical scripture, particularly 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 verse in its historical and theological context is crucial. To truly address whether getting tattoos is a sin for Christians today, we need to delve deeper into what the Bible actually says and how these ancient texts apply to contemporary life.
Leviticus 19:28: Understanding the Old Testament Law on Tattoos
The verse from Leviticus is often the cornerstone of arguments against tattoos within Christianity. In its full context, Leviticus 19:28 reads, “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.” It’s important to recognize that this command was given to the Israelites within a specific historical and cultural landscape.
During the time of the Old Testament, surrounding pagan cultures practiced tattooing as a form of mourning the dead and as a way to show devotion to their gods. These practices were deeply intertwined with idolatry and beliefs that were contrary to the monotheistic faith of the Israelites. God, in Leviticus, was setting His people apart, distinguishing them from these pagan practices. The prohibition against tattoos was likely intended to prevent the Israelites from adopting these idolatrous customs and to maintain their distinct identity as God’s chosen people.
It’s also vital to note that Leviticus contains numerous laws and commandments that modern Christians interpret and apply differently today. For example, in the verses immediately preceding Leviticus 19:28, there are prohibitions against eating meat with blood (verse 26) and rounding the corners of one’s head or marring the edges of one’s beard (verse 27). While some groups may still adhere to some of these dietary or grooming laws, the majority of Christians do not believe these Old Testament laws are binding in the same way after the coming of Jesus Christ.
Jesus and the Fulfillment of the Law
The arrival of Jesus Christ brought about a significant shift in understanding and interpreting Old Testament law. Jesus himself stated in Matthew 5:17, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” He clarified that he came not to disregard the Old Testament but to bring its purpose to completion.
Through his life, death, and resurrection, Jesus fulfilled the requirements of the law, which humans could never perfectly achieve. Romans 10:4 explains this further, “Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.” This means that Christians are no longer under the Old Testament law in the same way. Instead, they are guided by the principles of love, grace, and the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament.
This New Covenant perspective allows Christians to re-examine Old Testament laws like Leviticus 19:28 through the lens of Jesus’ teachings. While the historical context of the tattoo prohibition is important, Christians are now called to live by the Spirit and to discern how to honor God in all aspects of their lives, rather than being strictly bound by every specific command in Leviticus.
Your Body as a Temple: Considering 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Another key scripture often brought up in discussions about Christians and tattoos is 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. This passage states, “Or do you not know that your body is a temple 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.”
This verse emphasizes the sacredness of the human body as a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit. It calls Christians to recognize that their bodies are not ultimately their own but belong to God, who redeemed them through Christ. Therefore, the question shifts from simply asking “is getting tattoos a sin?” to a more nuanced inquiry: “Does getting a tattoo honor God with my body?”
The answer to this question becomes deeply personal and depends heavily on the individual’s motives and intentions behind getting a tattoo. If a tattoo is obtained impulsively, fueled by rebellion, or intended to promote harmful or ungodly messages, it could be argued that it does not honor God. However, if a tattoo is chosen thoughtfully and carries personal significance that aligns with Christian values, the perspective can shift.
Motives and Intentions: Does Your Tattoo Honor God?
Ultimately, the Bible emphasizes the importance of the heart and intentions behind our actions. Romans 14:23 reminds us, “…for whatever does not proceed from faith is sin.” And 1 Corinthians 10:31 instructs, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
Therefore, when considering a tattoo, a Christian should reflect on their motives. Is the intention to glorify God? Does the tattoo carry a message that aligns with Christian faith? Could it be a conversation starter for sharing one’s faith, as Jan Walker experienced?
In Jan’s case, her tattoo served as a powerful reminder of her recovery journey and an opportunity to share her story of faith and healing with others. Her tattoo, in her context, became a way to honor God and открывать doors for evangelism.
The question of whether getting tattoos is a sin is not a simple yes or no. From a Christian perspective, it requires careful consideration of scripture, historical context, personal motives, and the overarching principle of honoring God in all things. Instead of focusing solely on the prohibition in Leviticus, Christians are encouraged to seek wisdom, pray for discernment, and ensure their decisions, including the choice to get a tattoo, are made in a way that brings glory to God.
