Bible Verses For Tattoos

The Bible doesn’t mention tattoos extensively, but there is one key verse in the Old Testament that specifically refers to marking the body:

Leviticus 19:28 (NIV)

“Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.”

This verse is often cited in discussions about tattoos. It was part of the Mosaic Law given to the Israelites and was tied to cultural practices of the time, such as pagan rituals. Some interpret this verse as a direct prohibition against tattoos, however it is specific to the context of ancient Israel and paganism.

Other Bible Verses to Consider:

While not directly about tattoos, these verses touch on themes of honoring God with your body or reflect on outward appearance versus inner character:

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV)
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”

1 Samuel 16:7 (NIV)
“The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

Romans 12:1 (NIV)
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

Galatians 6:17 (NIV)
“From now on, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.”
(This verse is often understood metaphorically, referring to the scars Paul received during his ministry.)

Key Points to Reflect On:

• The New Testament focuses on the heart and intent rather than specific outward actions like tattoos.
• When considering tattoos, many Christians reflect on whether the tattoo aligns with their faith and honors God.

Do you have tattoos? Let me know! If you have question or a comment please leave it below on our YouTube and God bless you!

Still Have a Question?

If you didn’t find your answer here, don’t worry — you’re not alone. You can send your question directly through the Ask a Bible Question page. I’ll do my best to respond with guidance from God’s Word.

You can also leave your questions on my YouTube channel. This is where I regularly share Bible verses, encouragement, and answers to common questions.

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Bible Verses about Tattoos

While there are only a few verses that directly mention tattoos, there are other verses that are sometimes included in discussions about body markings and spiritual symbolism. Here’s an expanded list:

Leviticus 19:28 – “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.”

Deuteronomy 14:1 – “You are children of the Lord your God. Do not cut yourselves or shave the front of your heads for the dead.”

Isaiah 44:5 – “This one will say, ‘I am the Lord’s’; another will call himself by the name of Jacob; still another will write on his hand, ‘The Lord’s,’ and will take the name Israel.”

Galatians 6:17 – “From now on, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.”

Revelation 19:16 – “On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: King of kings and Lord of lords.”

Exodus 28:36-38 – “Make a plate of pure gold and engrave on it as on a seal: holy to the Lord. Fasten a blue cord to it to attach it to the turban; it is to be on the front of the turban. It will be on Aaron’s forehead, and he will bear the guilt involved in the sacred gifts the Israelites consecrate whatever they do. It will be on Aaron’s forehead continually, so that they will be acceptable to the Lord.”

Jeremiah 31:33 – “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time, declares the Lord. I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.”

Ezekiel 9:4 – “The Lord said to him, ‘Go throughout the city of Jerusalem and put a mark on the foreheads of those who grieve and lament over all the detestable things that are done in it.’”

1 Kings 18:28 – “So they shouted louder and slashed themselves with swords and spears, as was their custom, until their blood flowed.”

These additional verses cover a broader range of body markings and symbols in biblical contexts, offering various perspectives on the practice.

Still Have a Question?

If you didn’t find your answer here, don’t worry — you’re not alone. You can send your question directly through the Ask a Bible Question page. I’ll do my best to respond with guidance from God’s Word.

You can also leave your questions on my YouTube channel. This is where I regularly share Bible verses, encouragement, and answers to common questions.

The post Bible Verses About Tattoos appeared first on The Bible Blog - Everything You Need to Grow With God.