What Does the Bible Say About Tattoos?

What Does the Bible Say About Tattoos?

Tattoos have been around for centuries, with their exact origins still being debated by scholars today. What is not up for debate, however, is the fact that tattoos are deeply embedded in popular culture and are becoming increasingly common among all age groups. 

But what does the Bible say about tattoos? Can you get a tattoo if you’re a Christian? Does it even matter? These questions have been debated for years, so it’s time to take a deeper look at what the Bible has to say about tattoos. In this blog post, we'll explore the biblical stance on tattoos and how you can draw your own conclusions.

Is getting a tattoo a sin in the Bible?

Couple with tattoos holding fingers. Article by Coffee and Christ Shop.


There is no specific mention of tattoos in the Bible because the word "tattoos" did not exist in biblical times, so there is no clear answer as to whether or not getting a tattoo, as we know them today, is a sin. However, there are some principles that we can look at that can help us to determine if getting a tattoo is right or wrong.

The first principle is that our bodies are God’s temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This means that we should take care of our bodies and not do anything to them that would mar their appearance or cause them harm. Getting a tattoo involves puncturing the skin and inserting ink into the body, which could lead to infection or other health problems. Therefore, if we want to take care of our bodies as God’s temple, we should avoid getting tattoos.


Another principle to consider is that our bodies are to be used for God’s glory (1 Corinthians 10:31). This means that we should use our bodies in ways that will bring honor and glory to God. Getting a tattoo does not necessarily glorify God, as it is an act of self-expression rather than an act of worship. In fact, some people get tattoos with evil symbols or words in order to rebel against God. If we want to use our bodies for HIS glory, we should avoid getting tattoos.

So, while the Bible does not specifically mention the word "tattoo," there are some principles that we can apply which suggest that getting a tattoo is not something that Christians should do.



What does the Bible say about piercings?

The Bible does mention body piercings in Leviticus 19:28, which has been translated to say, “You shall not make any cuts in your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord.” Some people interpret this as meaning that tattoos are forbidden, while others interpret it as meaning that cutting oneself or mourning with self-inflicted wounds is forbidden. Some believe that piercing is the same as cutting oneself.

In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Paul writes “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 is often interpreted as meaning that we should take care of our bodies and not defile them with piercings or tattoos.

So, what does the Bible say about piercings? There is no definitive answer, but some verses seem to indicate that we should take care of our bodies and avoid defacing them.


What are the biblical reasons not to get a tattoo?

There are a few verses in the Bible that have been translated to mention the word "tattoo," and all of them speak against getting them. In Leviticus 19:28, God tells us not to make cuts in our flesh or put tattoo marks on ourselves. 

This is because our bodies are holy and belong to God. In Deuteronomy 14:1, God says that we are to love and respect our bodies, which includes not putting permanent marks on them. If we truly believe that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, then we should take care of them and not deface them with tattoos.

What does the Bible say about tattoos in Revelations?


The Bible says in Leviticus 19:28, “You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the Lord.” So, what does that mean? Are Christians allowed to get tattoos?

There is no definitive answer, as there is much debate among Christians on this issue. Some people believe that the passage in Leviticus is referring to pagan practices and therefore doesn’t apply to Christians today. Others believe that the passage is a general commandment from God not to mar our bodies with permanent markings.

Wherever you stand on this issue, it’s important to pray about it and seek wise counsel from other Christians before making a decision. And remember, whatever you do, do it for the Lord.

What does the Bible say about tattoos (kjv)?

Tattoos are not mentioned explicitly in the King James Version of the Bible. Certain passages in the Bible, however, have been interpreted by some Christians as prohibiting tattoos, most notably Leviticus 19:28, which states, "You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the Lord." 

This verse, part of a larger list of holiness laws, is frequently cited as proof that tattoos are against God's will. However, personal and denominational interpretations of this verse and its application to tattoos differ, and not all Christians agree on its meaning.


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Please Note: Nothing replaces having and reading your own Bible. Therefore, the purpose of these articles is to help strengthen your desire to read scripture daily and learn how to seek and find answers to your spiritual questions there. Through reading God’s word, we begin to understand HIS love for us and develop a personal relationship with HIM. If you are not a Chistian and would like to know more about Christianity or the Bible, we encourage you to start by finding a local Christian community, visiting a Christian church and seeking out ways to learn more about the Gospel of Jesus Christ and his ministry.