Find out what the Bible says about tattoos
Christians and tattoos: it's a controversial topic. Many believers wonder if getting a tattoo is a sin.
What does the Bible say about tattoos?
In addition to examining what the Bible says about tattoos, together we will consider the concerns surrounding the tattoo today and present a self-test quiz to help you decide whether getting a tattoo is right or wrong.
Tattoo or not?
Is it a pity to get a tattoo? This is a question that many Christians struggle with. I think the tattoo falls into the category of "questionable issues" where the Bible is unclear.
Hey, wait a minute, you might be thinking. The Bible says in Leviticus 19:28: “Do not cut your bodies for the dead and do not mark your skin with tattoos. I am the Lord. " (NLT)
How much clearer can it be?
It is important, however, to look at the verse in context. This passage in Leviticus, including the surrounding text, deals in particular with the pagan religious rituals of people living around the Israelites. God's desire is to distinguish his people from other cultures. The focus here is on prohibiting worldly and pagan worship and witchcraft. God forbids his holy people to devote themselves to idolatry, pagan worship and witchcraft that imitate pagans. He does it for protection, because he knows that this will take them away from the one true God.
It is interesting to observe verse 26 of Leviticus 19: "Do not eat meat that has not been dried up by its blood", and verse 27, "Do not cut hair on the temples or cut beards". Well, certainly many Christians today eat non-kosher meat and cut their hair without participating in the forbidden worship of pagans. At the time these customs were associated with pagan rites and rites. Today I am not.
So, the important question remains: is getting a tattoo a pagan and mundane form of worship still prohibited by God today? My answer is yes and no. This question is debatable and should be treated as a Romans 14 problem.
If you are considering the question "Tattoo or not?" I think the most serious questions to ask are: what are my reasons for wanting a tattoo? Am I trying to glorify God or draw attention to me? Will my tattoo be a source of contention for my loved ones? Will making a tattoo disobey my parents? Will my tattoo trip someone who is weak in faith?
In my article "What to do when the Bible is unclear", we find that God has given us a means of judging our motives and evaluating our decisions. Romans 14:23 states: "... everything that does not come from faith is sin." This is quite clear.
Instead of asking "Is it okay for a Christian to get a tattoo", perhaps a better question might be "Is it okay for me to get a tattoo?"
Since tattooing is such a controversial issue today, I think it's important to examine your heart and motifs before making the decision.
Self-examination - Tattooing or not?
Here is a self-examination based on the ideas presented in Romans 14. These questions will help you decide whether getting a tattoo or not is a shame for you:
How do my heart and my conscience convince me? Do I have freedom in Christ and a clear conscience before the Lord regarding the decision to get a tattoo?
Am I judging a brother or sister because I don't have the freedom in Christ to receive a tattoo?
Will I still have this tattoo in years?
Will my parents and family approve and / or will my future spouse want me to have this tattoo?
Will I trip a weaker brother if I get a tattoo?
Is my decision based on faith and will the result be glorifying for God?
In the end, the decision is between you and God. While it may not be a black and white issue, there is a right choice for each individual. Take some time to answer these questions honestly and the Lord will show you what to do.
Consider the pros and cons of tattooing with Christian Teens Guide Kelly Mahoney.
Consider a biblical view of the question: Is getting a tattoo a sin? by Robin Schumacher.
Consider a Jewish perspective on tattoos.
See what some Christian music artists say about the tattoo.
Some other things to consider
There are serious health risks associated with getting a tattoo:
Health risks of the tattoo
Finally, tattoos are permanent. Make sure to consider the possibility that you may regret your decision in the future. Although removal is possible, it is more expensive and more painful.