Bible Study Guide
What Does the Bible Say About What does the bible say about tattoos?
The Bible addresses what does the bible say about tattoos in both the Old and New Testament. Here is what scripture teaches about what does the bible say about tattoos and how these 6 passages apply to Christian life today.
Exploring 6 Key Passages
1. Leviticus 19:28
Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.KJV
This is the most direct biblical reference regarding tattoos and body markings. The verse specifically prohibits printing marks on the body and was given as part of God's law to the Israelites.
2. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.KJV
This passage teaches that believers' bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. Many interpret this as a call to treat our bodies with reverence and consider how we modify or decorate them.
3. Deuteronomy 14:1
Ye are the children of the LORD your God: ye shall not cut yourselves, nor make any baldness between your eyes for the dead.KJV
Similar to Leviticus 19:28, this verse prohibits cutting the flesh and making marks, particularly in mourning rituals. It emphasizes that God's people should be distinct from pagan practices.
4. 1 Samuel 16:7
But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his outward appearance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.KJV
This verse emphasizes that God values the heart over outward appearance. It suggests that what matters most to God is not external modifications but the condition of one's heart and character.
5. Romans 14:23
And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: whatsoever is not of faith is sin.KJV
This principle applies to any action, including tattoos. If someone has doubts about whether getting a tattoo is right before God, they should refrain, as acting against conscience can be sinful.
6. 1 Corinthians 10:31
Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.KJV
This verse provides a general principle for all Christian behavior, including decisions about body modification. Believers should consider whether their actions, including tattoos, bring glory to God.
Summary
Key Takeaways About What does the bible say about tattoos
- This is the most direct biblical reference regarding tattoos and body markings.
- This passage teaches that believers' bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.
- Similar to Leviticus 19:28, this verse prohibits cutting the flesh and making marks, particularly in mourning rituals.
- This verse emphasizes that God values the heart over outward appearance.
- This principle applies to any action, including tattoos.
- This verse provides a general principle for all Christian behavior, including decisions about body modification.
More Bible Study Guides
Explore what the Bible says about other topics