What does the Bible say about getting tattoos?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible does not give a simple universal command about modern tattoos, but it calls believers to honor God with their bodies and motives. Leviticus 19:28 and Deuteronomy 14:1 forbid mourning marks associated with pagan religious practices, teaching God’s people not to imitate idolatrous customs. Christians should therefore avoid tattoos that celebrate sin, false worship, rebellion, or self-harm. At the same time, 1 Corinthians 6:19 reminds us that our bodies belong to the Lord, and 1 Corinthians 10:31 calls us to do all for God’s glory. Each believer should act prayerfully, with a clear conscience, wise counsel, and love for others.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Leviticus 19:28 36 votes
“‘You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you. I am Yahweh.
- 1 Corinthians 10:31 11 votes
Whether therefore you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
- 1 Corinthians 6:19 8 votes
Or don’t you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,
- Deuteronomy 14:1 8 votes
You are the children of Yahweh your God. You shall not cut yourselves, nor make any baldness between your eyes for the dead.
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