Introduction
If you’ve ever wondered what the Bible says about tattoos, you’re not alone. Many people—young and old—find themselves asking this question. Some want a tattoo to remember someone they love. Others like the art, or they see it as a way of expressing their story. And still others worry: Does the Bible say I shouldn’t do this?
This isn’t a small question. It’s a matter of faith, of how we use the bodies God has given us, and of how we live as witnesses before the world. You may even have heard someone quote a verse or share a strong opinion one way or the other. But as with many things, it’s important to slow down, look at what Scripture actually says, and seek wisdom in how it applies to our lives today.
In this article, we’ll explore where the Bible talks about tattoos, what those verses meant in their original context, and how Christians can think faithfully about the subject.
What Does the Bible Say About Tattoos?
There is only one place in the Bible that directly mentions tattoos: Leviticus 19:28. The verse reads:
“Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.”
At first glance, this verse seems clear enough. God told His people not to tattoo themselves. But as always, the context matters.
The Old Testament Context
Leviticus is part of the Law given to Israel at Mount Sinai. These laws were given to set the Israelites apart from the nations around them. Many of their neighbors—such as the Canaanites and Egyptians—used tattooing and body cutting in connection with pagan rituals, mourning the dead, or worshiping false gods.
The Israelites were called to be different, holy, and distinct. God did not want His people practicing the same rituals that honored idols or spirits. Tattoos, in that setting, were not just “art” but part of religious ceremonies outside the worship of the true God.
The Hebrew Word Behind “Tattoo”
The Hebrew word used here is qa‘aqa‘, which means “a cutting” or “marking.” Scholars note that it was connected with permanent body markings tied to idolatry. So, when Leviticus 19:28 forbids tattooing, it is primarily speaking of markings connected to false worship.
Was It a Sin to Have Tattoos in the Old Testament?
For ancient Israel, the answer was simple: yes. Tattoos were forbidden because they were tied to pagan customs. Israel’s identity was to reflect holiness. Their bodies were not to bear the marks of false gods.
Tattoos and Idolatry
In the Old Testament world, tattoos often carried religious meaning. They weren’t about style or remembrance but about spiritual allegiance. Some cultures tattooed themselves to show devotion to a god or goddess. Others cut their bodies in grief rituals for the dead.
So, when God gave this command, it was less about “ink on skin” and more about avoiding idolatry.
Do Tattoos Appear in the New Testament?
Interestingly, the New Testament does not mention tattoos at all. Jesus never spoke about them. Paul, Peter, John, and the other writers did not address the subject.
Instead, the focus of the New Testament is on the heart, the spirit, and the way we live out our faith.
“Your Body is a Temple”
One verse often brought into this discussion is 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.”
This passage is not about tattoos directly. Paul was speaking against sexual immorality. Yet the principle remains: our bodies belong to God. We should use them in ways that glorify Him.
What Does Jesus Say About Tattoos?
Jesus never said anything about tattoos. His teaching centered on love, humility, forgiveness, and devotion to God.
But if we apply His principles, the question becomes: Will a tattoo draw me closer to Christ, or will it distract me? Will it show His love, or will it cause confusion?
That is a heart question more than a rule.
Revelation and the Image of Markings
Some people wonder if the book of Revelation has something to say about tattoos.
The Mark of the Beast
In Revelation 13:16–17, we read about the “mark of the beast,” placed on people’s foreheads or hands. Some fear that tattoos could be linked to this. But notice: this mark is symbolic of allegiance to evil, not about body art itself.
The Name on Jesus’ Thigh
In Revelation 19:16, John describes Jesus as having a name written on His robe and thigh: “King of kings and Lord of lords.”
Some have said this sounds like a tattoo. But most scholars believe it’s a symbolic vision. Revelation is filled with imagery, and the “name” here reflects authority, not body ink.
Misunderstandings About Revelation and Tattoos
So, while Revelation uses imagery of marks and names, it is not teaching about tattoos. These are visions of spiritual truth, not instructions about body art.
Is Getting a Tattoo a Sin in the Bible?
This is the question many wrestle with. Based on what we’ve seen, the Bible does not clearly forbid tattoos for Christians today.
Intent Matters
The key is the intent of the heart. If someone gets a tattoo to worship another god, to celebrate sin, or to rebel against God, then yes—that would be wrong. But if a tattoo is chosen thoughtfully, with a heart seeking to honor God, it is not automatically sinful.
Romans 14:23 says: “Whatever does not proceed from faith is sin.” That means if your conscience is troubled about tattoos, you should not get one. But if your conscience is clear, and you seek to glorify God, then it may be permitted.
What About Cultural Views on Tattoos Today?
Around the world, tattoos carry very different meanings. In some cultures, they are still connected with gang life or rebellion. In others, they are simple art, remembrance, or even expressions of faith.
A Matter of Christian Freedom
Paul reminds us in Galatians 5:1: “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” We are not bound by Old Testament ceremonial laws. Yet Paul also teaches in Romans 14 that we should respect differences of conscience among believers.
That means: if tattoos offend a brother or sister in Christ, we should be careful not to cause them to stumble.
How Should a Christian Decide About Tattoos?
If you are thinking about getting a tattoo, here are some prayerful questions to ask:
Does this honor God? Will it point to Him or away from Him?
Will it stumble others? Could it harm my witness to unbelievers or fellow believers?
What does it say? Words and symbols carry meaning. Will this tattoo speak of love, hope, and truth?
What is my motive? Am I choosing this for pride, rebellion, or faith?
Personal Stories and Testimonies
Some Christians choose tattoos of a cross, a Bible verse, or a reminder of God’s love. For them, it becomes a way to witness.
Others avoid tattoos because they believe it could harm their witness in certain communities. Both choices, when made in faith, can honor God.
The Heart Matters Most
In the end, the question of tattoos comes down to this: God looks at the heart, not the skin.
A tattoo cannot save you or condemn you. What matters is your relationship with Christ. Tattoos may fade, but the love of God never does.
As Scripture reminds us in 1 Samuel 16:7: “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
So, whether you wear a tattoo or not, live in such a way that your life shows the beauty of Christ.
