Tattoos have become increasingly popular worldwide, with a significant rise in the number of people sporting them. Once associated mainly with delinquency or rebellion, tattoos now appeal to a broader audience, shedding their rebellious image.
Biblical Perspective on Tattoos
The New Testament remains silent on the matter of tattoos, leaving believers without explicit guidance on whether getting inked is sinful. Consequently, tattooing falls into a “gray area,” where individuals must follow their convictions, respecting differing views within the faith community.
Biblical Principles and Considerations
- Respect for Authority: Children are called to honor and obey their parents (Ephesians 6:1–2). Thus, minors should refrain from tattoos against parental wishes, as tattoos borne from rebellion are biblically unsound.
- Inner Self Over Outward Adornment: Scripture prioritizes inner development over external appearance (1 Peter 3:3–4). Seeking tattoos for attention or admiration reflects a sinful focus on self rather than spiritual growth.
- Glorifying God in Motives: All actions should aim to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Tattoo motivations like fitting in or standing out may fall short of this standard, though the tattoo itself may not inherently be sinful.
- Temple of the Holy Spirit: Believers’ bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19–20), prompting reflection on the appropriateness of body modification. Consideration should be given to whether tattoos cross a line into sinful mutilation.
- Representing Christ: As Christ’s ambassadors, believers must consider the message conveyed by their tattoos (2 Corinthians 5:20) and whether they aid or detract from sharing the gospel.
- Faith-Based Decision Making: Actions not rooted in faith are considered sinful (Romans 14:23). Therefore, individuals should be fully convinced that getting a tattoo aligns with God’s will for them.
Old Testament Prohibition and Principle
The Old Testament law forbids tattoos: “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD” (Leviticus 19:28). Though the reason isn’t explicitly stated, it likely stemmed from pagan practices tied to idolatry. God’s command for His children to be distinct from pagan practices implies that tattoos should not promote superstition or worldly ideologies. While not binding for New Testament believers, this principle guides Christians to ensure their tattoos align with God’s values and purposes.
In conclusion, while getting a tattoo isn’t inherently sinful, it should be approached with discernment, guided by biblical principles and rooted in love.