Praise God Good Newspaper. I would like to know whether it is right for a Christian to have a tattoo— Scovia Nante
Response by Isaiah White
Thank you, Scovia, for your thoughtful question.
Tattoos have become increasingly popular in modern culture, often seen as a form of self-expression, art, or commemoration. Although I’ve never had one myself, tattoo parlours are now widespread, offering different styles, from ink-based designs to cuttings and stickers. Some procedures, depending on the tattoo’s location and complexity, can be quite painful and even excruciating.
Tattoos across cultures
The practice of tattooing has existed for thousands of years and holds different meanings across cultures. Ancient Siberian nomads, Indigenous Polynesians, Nubians, Native South Americans, Africans, and Greeks all used tattoos for various reasons—protection from evil, declarations of love, status symbols, religious expressions, or punishment.
In many cultures, tattoos were more than decoration; they often had deep spiritual or ritual significance. In the ancient world, tattoos were frequently linked with pagan worship or slavery. They were symbolic and representative of communities, deities, or belief systems. Even today, despite modern motives, tattoos remain a form of symbolism and representation—whether personal, cultural, or aesthetic.
What the Bible says
The most commonly cited verse regarding tattoos is Leviticus 19:28: “You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord.”
This verse appears to prohibit tattoos outright. However, to understand its meaning, we must consider the historical and cultural context. Leviticus is part of the Old Testament law, particularly the Holiness Code, which was intended to set the Israelites apart from surrounding pagan nations. These nations often engaged in idol worship, self-harm, and rituals for the dead, including body marking and tattooing. Thus, this prohibition was likely aimed at keeping God’s people distinct in their worship and lifestyle. The focus was on separating themselves from pagan practices that dishonoured God.
New Testament view
The New Testament does not directly address tattoos, either to forbid or endorse them. However, this doesn’t mean that Christians are free to make choices without spiritual consideration. The Bible is not always prescriptive but is deeply principled and value-based.
According to 1 Corinthians 6:19–20, our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit:
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you… Therefore, honour God with your bodies.” This suggests that Christians should treat their bodies with reverence. While tattoos might be considered body art, any modification to the body should be weighed against the idea that we are stewards of what belongs to God.
Moreover, the God of the Bible is clear about His opposition to idolatry and the use of images in worship (Exodus 20:1–4). He desires authenticity and heart-based devotion rather than external symbolism. While not all tattoos are idolatrous, it is essential to consider whether such imagery reflects God’s character and truth.
Paul also offers further insight in 1 Corinthians 10:23:
“‘Everything is permissible,’ but not everything is beneficial. ‘Everything is permissible,’ but not everything builds up.”
Just because something is allowed by society does not mean it is helpful to your spiritual growth or witness. Christians must ask: Does this help me glorify God? Does it edify others? Does it help advance the kingdom of God?
Matter of faith, witness
Ultimately, Christians considering a tattoo should ask themselves whether it aligns with their values, faith, and witness. Is it glorifying to God? Is it an act born out of faith? As Romans 14:23 states, “Whatever does not proceed from faith is sin.”
This doesn’t mean that everyone with a tattoo is in sin—many Christians may have gotten tattoos before coming to faith, or for personal, non-rebellious reasons. But for someone currently in Christ, any decision about body modification should be rooted in prayer, Scripture, wise counsel, and a sincere desire to honour God.
Conclusion
In summary, while tattoos are not explicitly addressed in the New Testament, the principles of Scripture offer clear guidance. The body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and every action should be weighed against how it honours God and builds up the Church.
So, is it right for a Christian to have a tattoo? The short answer is: likely not. If it does not arise from faith, does not glorify God, or if it mirrors practices rooted in paganism or self-centered expression, then it may not be fitting for a believer. Let every decision be examined through the lens of Scripture, spiritual wisdom, and reverence for the Lord who made us.
Response by Isaiah White, A life coach and theologian contact: 0775822833, whitemwine@gmail.com
