Question: Is getting a tattoo a sin?
Answer: It is not a sin, however motivation matters. Let’s talk about it.

Where Does This Question Come From?

The controversy often comes from a single verse in the Old Testament:

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

At first glance, this verse seems clear. But context matters — especially when interpreting Old Testament laws.

Leviticus 19:28 was part of a specific command to the Israelites living under the Old Covenant. The surrounding verses deal with pagan mourning rituals, cultic worship, and behaviors tied to idolatry. The “tattoos” in that verse were likely markings tied to false gods or superstitions.

New Testament Perspective: Freedom in Christ

In the New Testament, believers are not under the ceremonial or civil law of Israel:

“You are not under the law, but under grace.” — Romans 6:14

“Everything is permissible for me”—but not everything is beneficial. — 1 Corinthians 6:12

Paul teaches that our actions should be guided by wisdom, love, and conscience, not legalism. So — can Christians get tattoos? Yes. But should you? That depends on your motivation and the message of the tattoo.

Biblical Principles to Consider Before Getting a Tattoo

Motivation matters.
“Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31.
Is the tattoo glorifying God, or drawing attention to self in a harmful way?
Conscience counts.
“But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for that person it is unclean.” — Romans 14:14.
If it would violate your conscience or cause others to stumble, it may be better not to do it.
Honor your body.
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit?” — 1 Corinthians 6:19.
This doesn’t mean we can’t adorn our bodies at all — but we should honor God in how we do it.
Avoid judgment.
“Who are you to judge someone else’s servant?” — Romans 14:4.
Let’s not turn personal convictions into universal commands.

Summary: Is It a Sin?

No, it is not a sin for Christians to get tattoos. The Old Testament prohibition was cultural and religious, not a moral law for all time. In Christ, we have freedom — and we’re called to use that freedom wisely and humbly.