The book of Leviticus is often cited when discussing tattoos, as it contains a verse that specifically forbids the marking of one's body. In chapter 19, verse 28, it states, "You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord." This verse has led many to believe that tattoos are a sin and should not be practiced by Christians. However, it is important to understand the context and cultural relevance of this verse before making a judgment on the matter.Leviticus 19:28
In the book of Deuteronomy, we are reminded that we are God's chosen people and are called to be holy. Chapter 14, verses 1-2 state, "You are the children of the Lord your God. Do not cut yourselves or shave the front of your heads for the dead, for you are a people holy to the Lord your God." This verse is often used to support the argument against tattoos, as it also mentions not making any cuts on one's body. However, like Leviticus, the context of this verse is important to consider.Deuteronomy 14:1-2
In the New Testament, Paul addresses the issue of sexual immorality and how our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. In verses 19-20 of chapter 6, he writes, "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body." This verse is often used to argue against tattoos, as it implies that we should not defile our bodies. However, the topic of tattoos is not specifically mentioned in this passage.1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Continuing on the theme of our bodies being temples of the Holy Spirit, Paul writes in chapter 3, verses 16-17, "Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple." Some may use this verse to argue against tattoos, as they believe it falls under the category of "destroying" God's temple. However, the context of this verse is not specifically about tattoos, but rather about the Church and its members.1 Corinthians 3:16-17
In the same book of Corinthians, Paul writes in chapter 10, verse 31, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." This verse is often brought up in discussions about tattoos, as some believe that getting a tattoo would not bring glory to God. However, it is important to remember that this verse is not specifically about tattoos, but rather about living our lives in a way that brings glory to God.1 Corinthians 10:31
Paul urges the believers in Rome to present their bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. In verses 1-2 of chapter 12, he writes, "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." This verse is often used to argue against tattoos, as some believe that it goes against the idea of presenting our bodies as holy and acceptable to God. However, like many other verses, the context is not specifically about tattoos.Romans 12:1-2
In his first epistle, Peter addresses the idea of outward adornment and inner beauty. In chapter 3, verses 3-4, he writes, "Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious." Some may use this verse to argue against tattoos, as they believe it falls under the category of external adornment. However, the focus of this verse is on inner beauty and the heart, not on outward appearance.1 Peter 3:3-4
In his letter to the Colossians, Paul encourages them to do everything in the name of the Lord. In chapter 3, verse 17, he writes, "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." This verse is often used to argue against tattoos, as some believe that getting a tattoo would not be doing everything in the name of the Lord. However, like many other verses, the context is not specifically about tattoos.Colossians 3:17
In his letter to Timothy, Paul addresses the issue of modesty and proper attire. In chapter 2, verses 9-10, he writes, "Likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works." Some may use this verse to argue against tattoos, as they believe it goes against the idea of modesty and not drawing attention to oneself. However, the focus of this verse is on modesty and good works, not on tattoos specifically.1 Timothy 2:9-10
The book of Galatians addresses the issue of living by the flesh versus living by the Spirit. In chapter 5, verses 19-21, Paul writes, "Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." Some may use this verse to argue against tattoos, as they believe it falls under the category of "works of the flesh." However, the context of this verse is not specifically about tattoos, but rather about living a life led by the Spirit.Galatians 5:19-21