Tattoo Taboo: Christians, please answer :-)?

Question

What is your understanding of Christians getting tattoos? I think some people in my life would disagree with my decision, but I really think its okay - maybe in moderation. BTW - No one would treat me wrong for getting one, but I feel funny going against their advice. What's your perspective?

I am a member of a non-denominational church too. The part that confuses me is that scripture condemning tattoos may be null & void b/c of the New Testament (like not eating pork). Also, the biggest part is piercings. I really do not see the difference, and no one in my life cares if I pierce my ears (again).

Its not so much about the people, but that I respect these (few) people's opinions so much. However, opinion and a full revelation on something is different.

Answer 1

There are many areas that are left to our own conscience before God (work out your own salvation with fear and trembling). I personally do not feel it is right to mark your body in such a permanent disfiguring fashion...(the "put no marks on your body" scripture). But there are others who have no problem with it. I can tell you it will become a hindrance if you want to go into any type of formal ministry. Also the Word says in the multitude of counselors there is wisdom - perhaps you should listen to those you respect on this matter.

Answer 2

I am Christian, and I have two tattoo's. I really am not arrogant enough to think that putting ink in my skin is going to offend the Creator of the universe. Aren't we all just dust? Why would a piece of dust credit so much attention from the Creator of the universe. The Bible also says that it is a sin to divorce. I know a lot of Christians that are divorced. Some of those Christians have even critiszed me for having a tattoo. What does it really matter in the end? In 100 hundred years is any body going to care that I have tattoo's is God going to care? NO. As long as what I do does not hurt anyone what is the problem?

Answer 3

The taboo with Christians is about what the tattoo is of, not just of the tattoo. The Bible on vaguely mentions tattoos. the verse that mentions tattooing is:
“You shall not make any cuts in your body for the dead nor make any tattoo marks on yourselves: I am the LORD.”
Leviticus 19:28
This verse is referring to pagan rituals that were still being performed at the time. The link below goes into more detail.
Now if you were to get a Satan tattoo that would be different.
The main website is devoted to the subject of Christians and tattoos.

Answer 4

The bible says nothing about tattoos in general. It does say not to do them for pagan reasons though. The only other closest thing would be the thing about the body being the temple of Christ. Common sense says that you don't defile a temple. However, I think tattoos have just gotten a bad rap. They developed a stigma as being something sailors and drunk bikers did. If you push all your stereotypes out the door for a moment and really look at the issue then there really isn't anything wrong with a tattoo. If you are gonna have to live with people who are going to look down on you for it though I would really think hard about doing it. They may eventually get over it but it will still be something between you.

Answer 5

The scripture about tattoos being null and void now is a false interpretation. This scripture is often applied to modern tattooing, however, there are several factors that must be addressed, suing this scripture; Are you marking your body for a demon? Are you marking your body for Satan? Are you marking your body to signify your allegiance to any deity? These would denote idolatry.
Stay away from these type of reasons, and you aren't violating the scripture.

Much like a man getting pierced ears: what is the reason. Mine was to denote my servant-hood to Jesus.

Answer 6

Not much different than wearing a type of cross on your body . But more permanent.Just keep the theme of any tattoos within christian boundary's.

Answer 7

Read the text in context and research the meaning. The only objection I've heard--later in life--i wanted to hide my tattoo. You may change your mind--the tattoo will always be there. Good luck in your seeking advise.

Answer 8

I'm non denominational. But I think maybe one or two would be fine for christians. Then again, I don't know what your religious beliefs are. I like tattoos, but when someone has a lot of them, it looks funny. I'd say the line where it just looks bad is over 5 large tattoos.

Answer 9

I say it's your call. It is YOUR body. If you really want to split hairs, you're not suppose to wear makeup, color your hair or pierce your ears. You're really not suppose to do anything to your body because it's a temple according to Christianity. I'm fairly certain there are some Christians out there that do the above things so I wouldn't take what they say to heart. You can't pick & choose what you follow in the bible. It's either all in or all out. No excuses.

Personally, I don't see a big deal in it. I have a few. My only advise is to make sure you really really want it and if you do get it, make sure it's in a place that ages well (lol) and in a location that you can cover up just in case. Also make sure the tattoo artist is good. Ask for actual pics of his/her work, not just drawings.

Answer 10

The book of Leviticus says you aren't supposed to cut yourself or get tattoos, but I got one before I even knew that verse was in the Bible and now I'm stuck with it as an adult.