The Bible and Tattoos – What Does it Say?

When it comes to tattoos, opinions can vary greatly. Some see them as edgy and stylish, while some view them as a violation of biblical principles. When it comes to tattoos and the Bible, there is a lot to consider and discuss.

What Does the Bible Say?

So what does the Bible actually state about tattoos? The Bible does not expressly forbid tattoos outright, but there are a few verses that are related to the topic. Two of the most well-known verses that relate to tattoos are Leviticus 19:28 and Leviticus 21:5. The first one states, “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.” The second verse states “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.” From these verses, we understand that the Bible frowns upon tattoos as it considers tattoos to be a violation of God’s command to His people not to engage in any kind of bodily disfiguring.

The Meaning Behind the Verse

Although the Bible clearly disapproves of tattoos, the reason behind this has been widely debated. Some argue that God is prohibiting tattoos as a way to stop His people from engaging in pagan worship or idolatry. Others argue that this command has more to do with preserving God’s holy and unique design for humans. No matter the reason, God is clear in His word that tattoos are not acceptable for His people.

Conclusion

Ultimately, what is most important is that we thoughtfully consider these verses and examine our own heart before making any decisions about taking part in getting a tattoo. While the Bible does not specifically forbid tattoos outright, it is clear that God is commanding us to not get tattoos and to maintain His holy design. We must take the time to prayerfully consider our decisions before deciding if getting a tattoo is right for us.