The question of whether Christians should get tattoos is a surprisingly common one, sparking conversations in church halls and online forums alike. For many, body ink is a form of personal expression, a way to commemorate loved ones, or simply an aesthetic choice. But for Christians, the question often carries more weight, intertwined with interpretations of scripture and the desire to live a life that honors God. Is getting a tattoo a definitive sin, or is there room for a more nuanced understanding? Let’s delve into what the Bible actually says and explore a balanced Christian perspective on tattoos.
Old Testament Law and Leviticus 19:28
One of the most frequently cited Bible verses in discussions about tattoos is Leviticus 19:28, which states, “You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord.” Taken at face value, this verse seems to offer a clear prohibition. However, to truly understand this passage, it’s crucial to consider its historical and cultural context.
In ancient times, particularly in the cultures surrounding Israel, tattooing was often associated with pagan religious practices. These practices included mourning rituals for the dead and marking oneself to show allegiance to deities other than the God of Israel. Leviticus 19 is part of a larger section of the Old Testament law focused on setting the Israelites apart as holy and distinct from the surrounding nations. God was instructing His people to avoid practices that were deeply ingrained in pagan worship.
It’s also important to note that Leviticus contains numerous other commands that modern Christians do not adhere to literally. For example, the verses immediately before and after Leviticus 19:28 prohibit eating certain types of meat (verse 26) and cutting one’s hair in specific ways (verse 27). Most Christians today freely enjoy various foods and haircuts without considering themselves in violation of biblical law. This is because, through Jesus Christ, we understand the Old Testament law in a new light.
Jesus Christ and the Fulfillment of the Law
The arrival of Jesus Christ brought about a significant shift in how believers relate to the 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 the Old Testament laws were meant to point towards a deeper spiritual reality and ultimately towards Himself.
Alt text: Close-up of a wrist tattoo featuring two intertwined lines, symbolizing recovery from an eating disorder.
Through Jesus’s sacrifice and teachings, Christians are no longer bound by the letter of the Old Testament law in the same way. Romans 10:4 emphasizes this, stating, “For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.” This doesn’t mean the Old Testament is irrelevant, but it does mean we interpret it through the lens of Christ’s teachings and the principles of the New Testament.
The Body as a Temple: A New Testament Perspective
When considering tattoos from a Christian perspective today, a more relevant passage is found in 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 verse highlights the profound truth that for Christians, their bodies are not simply their own to do with as they please. Instead, they are temples of the Holy Spirit, entrusted to believers to honor God. Therefore, the question shifts from “Is tattooing explicitly forbidden?” to “Does getting a tattoo honor God with my body?”
Intention and Motivation: Honoring God in All Things
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to get a tattoo becomes a matter of personal conviction and seeking God’s guidance. As Romans 14:23 reminds us, “But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin.” If someone feels convicted that getting a tattoo would dishonor God, then for them, it would be sin.
However, for others, a tattoo can be a meaningful expression of their faith or a reminder of God’s work in their lives. The author of the original article, Jan Walker, shares how her tattoo, the recovery symbol for eating disorders, serves as a daily reminder of her journey and opens doors for conversations about her faith. Her intention is to glorify God through her story and recovery.
Alt text: Jan Walker speaking and gesturing, wrist tattoo visible, sharing her personal story of faith and recovery.
As 1 Corinthians 10:31 encourages, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” This principle can be applied to the decision of getting a tattoo. If the motivation behind getting a tattoo is to honor God, to share your faith, or to commemorate His faithfulness, then it may not only be permissible but also a powerful way to express your Christian identity.
Conclusion: A Matter of Conscience and Glorifying God
In conclusion, the Bible does not offer a straightforward “yes” or “no” answer to the question of whether it is a sin to get tattoos. While Leviticus 19:28 prohibits tattoos in a specific Old Testament context, this law must be understood in light of Jesus Christ’s fulfillment of the law and the principles of the New Testament.
For Christians today, the more pertinent question is whether getting a tattoo would honor God with their body, the temple of the Holy Spirit. This is a matter of personal conscience and seeking God’s wisdom. If done with the right intentions, to glorify God and express faith, getting a tattoo may not be a sin, and in some cases, can even serve as a testament to God’s grace and a conversation starter for sharing the Gospel. The key is to examine your heart, seek God’s guidance, and ensure that your choices, including body art, are ultimately aimed at bringing glory to Him.
