is getting tattoo considered a sin (catholic)?

Question

I plan on getting a tattoo related to a passege in the bible (like a cross for example), would this be considered a sin?
please give me some good details. Oh, I'm catholic by the way.


PS: FOR THE LOVE OF GOD dont put just a simple yes or no, that doesnt answer anything!

Answer 1

It depends. "Some people will say that Your body is your temple, you must keep it pure"

and some say "its a tattoo honoring God so its ok"

Its really up to you but you should talk to a Priest if you are concerned about it being a sin

Answer 2

RE: Is getting a tattoo a sin in the Catholic Religion? I really want to get a tattoo. I am getting it in 2 weeks. It will be a Celtic Cross on my shoulder. Is this considered to be a sin in the Catholic Church?

Answer 3

The verse in Leviticus that everyone is quoting refers to an old pagan mourning practice, where people made cuts on their bodies supposedly so that the living could be distinguished from the spirits of the dead. Hardly applies here.

There's no clear-cut teaching in the Catechism against tattoos, if that's what you're looking for. But you probably should examine your reasons for getting one, and check with your priest as to whether either your intent or the design constitute a sin -- before you get one. (Really, this isn't a cop-out answer, just referring you to the person who can give you the best information; certainly don't rely on answers in this forum, including mine, as authoritative. Especially when considering something this permanent.)

I do know that many Catholics have tattoos. But without asking them personally, it's hard to determine whether the tats were done as a rebellious thing, or they were converts who had them before coming into the Church, or what. Best double-check just to be certain. If you're not comfortable asking your own parish priest, then certainly you could go to a neighboring parish to inquire.

Answer 4

The Bible describes our bodies as "a temple" of the Lord.
In my opinion I think tattoos are marking our bodies, and a fad of this generation.

Also - it will be interesting seeing these markings on bodies of people of 40, 50, 60 years of age when they stretch, and fade, and are less than attractive. Also, what somebody thinks is cool or a personal expression at 19 or 20 can really change later in life, and then, you know, you still have the tattoo.

The Bible says not to mark your body... a sin, I think so. From what I know of the Bible it isn't something pleasing to God, and that is what has to be considered.

Answer 5

If you are a true believer , trying to be faithful ,We are stewards of the body God has lent to us , 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 , 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 .Satan wants to mark our body Revelation 13:16-18...14:9-11 .What does Gods law say ? Leviticus 19:28 ,21:5 ,Deuteronomy 14:1

Answer 6

I would say;As long as you accept God in ur heart..What you do with ink is your business.Im teaching my nephew now how to tat..Do you as you feel comfortable.I use to tell someone ,the pic you want tat on you.Hang it on mirror of your dresser for 6 months.You will see it e-day.After 6 months if you want it,go get it.Make sure the guy giving is clean and not only sterile needles.Go and watch a few times.Make sure he dont pour old used ink back in bottol.. any questions contact me..good luck..

Answer 7

Not by me it isn't. Until I went to a protestant school I didn't even know that tattoos were considered sinful. In fact, I have come across several priests that had several tattoos on their hands and arms. They weren't trying to hide anything, and since they are an example to our Spiritual Community, I can't see how getting a tattoo would be a sin.

Answer 8

The bible said not to mark your flesh for the dead and since we know that Christ lives then it is fine. I probably wouldn't get a cross, with it being a graven image. Also read Revelation 19:16

Answer 9

The passage about tattooing is in the Old Testament. So it would be good if you followed it but you are not bound to Old Testament law. As far as Catholic faith they do not have a problem with engraven images. Many other denominations would say no to any depiction of a cross.

Answer 10

Leviticus 19:28 Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the Lord.