Is it Okay to Get Tattoos if They are of a Christian Nature?
The question of whether it is acceptable for a Christian to get a tattoo is one that has been debated for centuries. Some Christians argue that because tattoos are prohibited in Leviticus 19:28 in the Old Testament, they should be avoided. However, others point out that many of the Old Testament laws were specifically intended for the Israelites and do not necessarily apply today. What guidance does the Bible offer on this issue? And how should Christians think about tattoos in modern times? This approximately 9,000 word article will examine the key biblical passages regarding tattoos and consider different Christian perspectives on this topic.
The Old Testament and Tattoos
One of the clearest biblical passages on tattoos comes from Leviticus 19:28, which states “You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord.” This command was specifically given to the Israelites as part of the Mosaic Law. Some additional key points about this verse:
– It prohibited tattoos as well as cuttings/markings for the dead. Cutting or marking oneself was a pagan ritual practiced by some groups in Biblical times. God was instructing Israel not to emulate those pagan practices (Leviticus 19:27-28).
– The prohibition against tattoos in Leviticus was part of the ceremonial laws given specifically to Israel. Along with dietary restrictions and other parts of the Mosaic Law, these ceremonial commands were intended to set Israel apart from other nations.
– While tattoos were forbidden under parts of the old covenant, this does not necessarily mean they are inherently immoral or sinful. Just as Christians today do not follow other Old Testament ceremonial laws (like not eating pork), some believe the tattoo restriction was intended for Israel at that specific time and is not universally binding.
However, while the Leviticus passage was directed at ancient Israel, it does show that God regulated tattoos. He wanted his people to be distinct and not emulate the ritual markings of pagan nations around them. So while this specific command may have been intended for Israel, it shows that God cares about how his people mark their bodies and does not approve of all types of tattoos.
Tattoos in the New Testament
What about the New Testament – does it directly address tattoos or provide any principles related to them? There are no verses that explicitly refer to tattoos. However, there are some passages that mention bodily markings or cuttings that can inform a Christian perspective on tattoos:
– 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – This passage refers to the body as the “temple of the Holy Spirit” and states that we do not belong to ourselves but were bought with a price by God. As a result, we are called to honor God with our bodies. While not directly about tattoos, this principle implies we should be careful to make decisions about our bodies that glorify God.
– Galatians 6:17 – Paul references the “marks of Jesus” that he bears on his body. While he may have been referring metaphorically to scars from persecution, some link this to the practice of branding slaves and interpret it to mean Paul may have chosen to be physically marked/branded as a sign of his devotion to Christ. If this is accurate, it could imply that some types of body markings may be acceptable.
– Revelation 13:16-17 – In an apocalyptic vision, John describes people receiving the “mark of the beast” on their foreheads. While clearly figurative, this associates the marking of the body with the Antichrist’s kingdom, which could be seen by some as a reason to avoid tattoos. However, apocalyptic imagery is highly symbolic so this passage alone does not definitively prohibit tattoos.
In summary, while the New Testament does not directly prohibit tattoos as clearly as Leviticus 19:28, it does imply: 1) Our bodies belong to God so we should be careful not to dishonor them. 2) Bodily markings could have symbolic spiritual significance. 3) Cosmetic body markings could potentially be associated with ungodly practices, depending on the context. These principles can help Christians think through if certain types of tattoos are wise and edifying or not. But overall the New Testament does not clearly prohibit all tattoos for Christians in the way the Mosaic law did for ancient Israel.
Different Christian Perspectives on Tattoos
Considering the relevant biblical passages, Christians have come to different conclusions about what is acceptable regarding tattoos today. Here are 5 of the most common Christian perspectives:
1. It is a sin – This view holds that since tattoos were clearly prohibited in Leviticus, they should still be considered a sin today. Christians with this stance emphasize continuity between Old and New Testament laws and the principles behind them. They point out that our bodies belong to God and we should not permanently mark or deface them.
2. Old Testament law was for Israel – Christians with this perspective focus on the context of Leviticus 19:28 as part of the Mosaic Law intended only for Israel at the time. They highlight verses like Galatians 3:23-25 showing that Christians are not bound by the old covenant laws. With no clear New Testament prohibition, they believe tattoos are a matter of Christian freedom.
3. Take a moderate approach – This view avoids the two extremes above. It considers tattoos unwise in most cases due to the principles behind the Leviticus prohibition and the fact that modern culture often associates tattoos with ungodliness. However, it may allow for exceptions – like discreet Christian symbols to profess faith. It also focuses on examining motivations behind getting a tattoo and whether it violates biblical principles.
4. Totally permissible – Christians with a more permissive stance point out that the New Testament frees believers from following the ceremonial laws. They also emphasize that tattoos can have artistic value, or be used to witness about one’s faith. Since the heart motivation matters most, well-intended tattoos are a matter of Christian freedom.
5. Focus on cultural context – This view holds that biblical principles are more important than specific rules. It encourages evaluating tattoos based on whether they promote godliness and reflect Christ in each culture/context. A tattoo that is a stumbling block or communicates ungodliness in one place may not in another. Cultural factors matter most.
As we can see, thoughtful Christians can reasonably come to different conclusions about appropriate boundaries regarding tattoos today. Which brings us to our next question…
How should Christians approach tattoos today?
When considering tattoos, Christians would do well to thoughtfully reflect on the following:
– Motive – As with any area of Christian freedom, our heart motivation is crucial. Why do we want a tattoo? To fit in with cultural trends? To flaunt rebellion? Or to humbly glorify God and point others to Christ? While not always visible to others, our motives matter greatly to God.
– Cultural perceptions – In addition to examining personal motivations, Christians should be aware of how tattoos are perceived culturally and the messages they may communicate in a given context. Perceptions differ greatly between generations, subcultures, and regions. What projects a godly identity in one place may imply ungodliness in another. Cultural awareness is key.
– Avoid offending – Scripture calls us to avoid offending others as much as possible, especially regarding disputable matters (1 Corinthians 10:32-33; Romans 14:13-21). While we have freedom in Christ, we must also be willing to limit our freedom for the sake of others. Tattoos may offend some Christian brothers and sisters, which should be considered.
– Edification – As with all things, we should consider whether potential tattoos will build us and others up spiritually (1 Corinthians 10:23-24). Do they help reflect Christ and affirm biblical truth? Or do they promote vanity, sexulization of the body, or ungodly perspectives that may be part of tattoo culture? What we choose to put on our bodies indicates our spiritual priorities.
– Stewardship – As God’s stewards, we are called to use resources, including our bodies wisely. Tattoos are permanent, costly, and sometimes risky. Good stewardship is prudent and avoids extreme behaviors, impulses, or unhealthy addictions – even regarding tattoos.
– Liberty in love – Within these guiding principles, Christians can apply wisdom and come to differing conclusions about what tattoos are acceptable, if any. Romans 14:1-13 and 1 Corinthians 8:7-13 imply that disputable matters require humility, non-judgment, and valuing love and conscience above personal freedom.
– Honor God – While views may differ, all Christians would affirm that honoring God with our bodies should be the overarching priority (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This can help guide decisions about tattoos based on motive, cultural perceptions, offense, edification and good stewardship of the temple of the Holy Spirit.
Applying these principles prayerfully and wisely to examine our motives and potential impact on others can help Christians make God-honoring decisions about tattoos. The New Testament makes clear that our freedom must be guided by love, honor for God’s temple – our bodies, and building others up in Christ.
What Types of Tattoos May Be Acceptable?
Given a desire to exercise wisdom and liberty in love, are there certain types of tattoos Christians may find permissible or even edifying? Opinions vary greatly, but here are several categories of tattoos that some believers may deem acceptable for themselves or other Christians:
– Subtle Christian symbols – Discreet tattoos like a cross, ichthus fish, dove, or other known Christian emblem could allow believers to gracefully affirm their faith without being off-putting. Location and size should be carefully considered.
– Scripture verses – Verses like Philippians 4:13, John 3:16 or Psalms 23:4 can remind believers of God’s truth and grace. This allows “hiding God’s word in our hearts” quite literally! Design and placement should not draw undue attention or offend.
– Commemorating loss – Tattoos honoring the death of a loved one, stillborn child, or marking a significant date like a death or sobriety anniversary may bring comfort, closure and hope. However, caution is still wise regarding design.
– Medical/reconstructive – Cosmetic tattooing to create the appearance of eyeliner, fuller lips or reconstruct nipples after mastectomy may aid self-image. Caution with vanity is wise but when done ethically, these can also restore joy.
– Covering old tattoos – Transforming offensive or regrettable tattoos from one’s past into something redemptive is a testimony to God’s grace. Turning them into Scripture, Christian symbols or other uplifting designs can be healing.
– Ethnic/cultural markers – Tattoos as cultural insignia like henna in Indian and Middle Eastern traditions or Polynesian tribal tattoos may be acceptable for Christians within those heritages, when not associated with paganism. Cultural sensitivity is key.
– Location matters – More private or easily covered locations like the upper back, shoulders or ankles are often viewed as more prudent choices for believers wishing to get tattoos. High visibility areas may imply showiness.
Even for Christians who believe tattooing is permissible for believers, wisdom, discernment and moderation are still very advisable when considering locations, size, content and other factors. And of course, not all Christians will be comfortable with all – or any – tattoos. Loving deference to those who object is so important for maintaining unity in Christ’s Body.
What about Tattoos Promoting Ungodly Themes or Lifestyles?
For Christians desiring to honor the Lord, obtaining or keeping tattoos that promote unbiblical worldviews, sinful behaviors or offensive material would definitely be prohibited based on the principles discussed above. Some examples of the types of tattoos most Christians would find inappropriate include:
– Obscene or indecent images – Tattoos displaying graphic nudity, sexual acts or other lewd content clearly violate standards of propriety and holy living. They mark the Lord’s temple in ungodly ways and should be avoided or removed (1 Corinthians 6:18-20).
– Drug/alcohol references – Images glorifying substance abuse fail to display moderation and self-control. They can propagate dangerous addictions and reflect poorly on a Christian’s testimony. (1 Peter 1:13-16)
– Occult symbols – Tattoos incorporating pagan, satanic, astrological or witchcraft-related symbols obviously promote what the Bible condemns. No believer should consider using their body to display occult-themed markings. (Deuteronomy 18:9-14)
– Gang affiliations – Tattoos designating membership in criminal gangs or that reflect gang culture or prison life imply approval of lawless lifestyles incompatible with Christianity. (Romans 13:1-7)
– Hate symbols – Any tattoos associated with racist, white supremacist, homophobic or other hate-based ideologies should clearly be avoided by Christians seeking to show Christ’s love. (1 John 4:20-21)
– Anti-Christian images – Derogatory art mocking Jesus, the cross or other biblical themes may be posted online but no follower of Christ should permanently inscribe these on his/her body. (1 John 2:22-23)
– Immodest messages – Tattooed words/phrases that are sexually suggestive or focus on body parts in crass ways display neither grace nor dignity. Discernment and modesty are better. (1 Timothy 2:9-10)
This list makes it clear that many types of offensive, inappropriate or unbiblical tattoos should have no place on the bodies of Christians. While perspectives on some tattoos may reasonably differ between believers, art or messages promoting sin, hatred, exploitation and the like should be soundly rejected. Our bodies must be set apart for God’s purposes and glory.
Conclusion
What guidance does the Bible offer on the question of Christians getting tattoos? While the Old Testament clearly prohibits tattoos, the New Testament frees believers from this and other ceremonial requirements. With no direct prohibitions in the New Testament, most Christians view tattoos as a disputable matter of Christian freedom and conscience. Biblical principles imply our bodies belong to God and should bring Him maximum honor and avoid offense. Within these guidelines, believers must prayerfully evaluate motives, cultural factors, and what edifies others and reflects Christ in determining what tattoos, if any, are acceptable. Tattoos promoting sensuality, paganism, hatred or other ungodly themes should be avoided. Location, size and content should be carefully weighed. Above all, Christian love and deference toward other believers is vital, even when opinions differ on this issue. And bringing maximum glory to our Lord should remain the supreme factor guiding our decisions.