The Short Answer
The Bible mentions tattoos only once, in Leviticus 19:28, which prohibits them in the context of ancient pagan mourning rituals. Christians disagree on whether this Old Testament command applies today. The key question isn’t just can you get a tattoo, but should you—and that requires examining your heart and motives.
The Only Bible Verse About Tattoos
Let’s start with the passage everyone asks about:
Leviticus 19:28 — “You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the LORD.”
This is the only verse in Scripture that directly mentions tattoos. But understanding what it means requires looking at its context.
Leviticus 19 contains a list of commands God gave to Israel to set them apart from the surrounding pagan nations. In the same chapter, God prohibits:
- Eating meat with blood still in it (v. 26)
- Cutting the hair at the sides of your head (v. 27)
- Trimming the edges of your beard (v. 27)
- Cutting your body for the dead (v. 28)
- Tattoo marks (v. 28)
The phrase “for the dead” is significant. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, people would cut themselves and mark their bodies as part of pagan mourning rituals and idol worship. God was commanding Israel not to participate in these practices.
Does This Command Apply to Christians Today?
This is where Christians have honest disagreements. Here at Higher Praise, we believe it’s important to present the different perspectives fairly.
View 1: Tattoos Are Still Forbidden
Some Christians believe Leviticus 19:28 establishes a timeless moral principle. They argue:
- Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
- We should not permanently alter what God created
- Tattoos are associated with worldly culture
- The command reflects God’s character, not just cultural rules
View 2: This Was a Cultural Command for Israel
Other Christians believe this specific prohibition was tied to Israel’s covenant and pagan practices of that time. They point out:
- Christians don’t follow other commands in the same passage (beard trimming, clothing made of mixed fabrics)
- The New Testament never repeats the prohibition
- The context was pagan mourning rituals, not modern decorative tattoos
- Jesus fulfilled the ceremonial law (Matthew 5:17)
View 3: It Depends on the Heart
Many Christians take a middle position, arguing that while the specific prohibition may not apply, the principles behind it still matter. They ask:
- What is your motivation for getting a tattoo?
- Will it honor God or cause others to stumble?
- Are you being influenced by worldly desires or expressing your faith?
Biblical Principles to Consider
Whether or not the Leviticus command applies directly, several New Testament principles can guide your decision:
1. Your Body Belongs to God
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 doesn’t specifically address tattoos, but it reminds us that our bodies are not ultimately ours to do with as we please. Whatever we do should honor God.
2. Not Everything Permissible Is Beneficial
1 Corinthians 10:23 — “”All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.”
Even if getting a tattoo isn’t sinful, that doesn’t automatically mean it’s wise or beneficial.
3. Don’t Cause Others to Stumble
Romans 14:13 — “Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother.”
Consider how your tattoo might affect your witness to others, especially weaker believers.
4. Do Everything for God’s Glory
1 Corinthians 10:31 — “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
This is the ultimate test for any decision. Can you get this tattoo to the glory of God?
Questions to Ask Before Getting a Tattoo
If you’re considering a tattoo, Higher Praise encourages you to prayerfully consider these questions:
- What is my motivation? Am I trying to fit in, rebel, express my faith, or something else?
- Have I prayed about it? Have I genuinely sought God’s guidance?
- What will it say? Will the content honor God? Would I be embarrassed for my pastor to see it?
- Will I still want this in 20 years? Tattoos are permanent. Trends change.
- What do godly people in my life think? Have I sought wise counsel?
- Is my conscience clear? Romans 14:23 says “whatever does not proceed from faith is sin.”
What About Christian Tattoos?
Many believers get tattoos of crosses, Bible verses, or Christian symbols as expressions of faith. While these can be meaningful testimonies, the same principles apply. A Christian tattoo isn’t automatically honoring to God any more than a secular one is automatically sinful. The heart behind it matters most.
Conclusion: Grace and Wisdom
The Bible doesn’t give us a clear “yes” or “no” on modern tattoos. Sincere Christians land on different sides of this issue, and Higher Praise believes there’s room for grace in this conversation.
What we can say with confidence:
- Getting a tattoo is not the unforgivable sin
- Having tattoos doesn’t disqualify you from God’s love or service
- The decision should be made prayerfully, not impulsively
- Your motivation and the content matter more than the act itself
If you already have tattoos and are worried about whether you sinned, rest in grace. God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). If you’re considering a tattoo, take time to pray, seek counsel, and examine your motives. Let your decision—whatever it is—be made in faith and for God’s glory.
What do you think? Share your perspective in the comments below.