Can Christians Get Tattoos?

 

If you go anywhere in public, you probably can’t go more than 30 seconds without seeing someone with a tattoo. Tattoos are more popular than ever, and it’s left many Christians wondering what the Bible says about them. Is it wrong to get a tattoo, or is it just a personal choice? While I’m not going to tell you what decision to make (you’re more than likely an adult and can do that for yourself), let’s take a look at what the Bible says. 

The most commonly cited verse on tattoos that people seem to turn to is Leviticus 19.28, which says, “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD” (NIV). At first glance, this seems like a clear command against tattoos. But, when we read the verse in its context (which we should always do), we can see that it’s actually referring to pagan practices of the time. Many of the surrounding cultures of the time used tattoos and body markings as part of idol worship or to honor the dead. God was calling His people to be set apart, to worship Him differently from the surrounding nations. 

So what does that mean for Christians today? Should we follow the command of Leviticus 19.28? Well, the New Testament doesn’t directly address tattoos (probably because it wasn’t a major issue at the time). Instead, it focuses on our hearts and intentions. Take 1 Corinthians 10.31 for example. It says, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (NIV). The point Paul is making in this verse is that whatever we do, we need to examine our intentions first. This means that before getting a tattoo, believers should think about our motives and reasons first. Is the tattoo glorifying God? Does it represent something good, pure, and true (see Philippians 4.8)? Or is it something that might dishonor Him or cause others to stumble? Only after answering those questions and examining our motives should we make the decision whether or not to get a tattoo. 

Ultimately, Christianity is not about external appearance, but about the condition of the heart. Therefore, the question should be shifted, in my opinion, from “is this allowed?” to “Why do I want this?” or “Will it reflect my faith and love for God?” 

The Bible doesn’t give a simple “yes” or “no” answer about tattoos for believers today. Instead, it calls us to examine our motives and honor God in everything we do. Likewise, we should respect the convictions of others, even if they don’t agree with us (so long as their convictions are not sinful, of course). Whether or not to get tattoos is ultimately a personal decision that should be made prayerfully, and with a heart focused on bringing glory to God.