The main Bible passage
Leviticus 19:28 is the Bible’s most direct passage on this subject. It forbids Israel from making cuts in the body for the dead and from placing marks on the body. The verse does not fully explain what those marks looked like or the specific practices surrounding them, so it should not be used carelessly.
This command appears among laws that called Israel to be distinct from the surrounding nations and devoted to the Lord alone (Leviticus 20:23). Many Christians understand the instruction as addressing practices connected to pagan worship, mourning, or identity. Others believe its wording is broad enough to rule out tattoos of any kind.
Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the Lord.
Why Christians reach different conclusions
Sincere followers of Jesus do not all apply this Old Testament command in the same way. Some choose not to get tattoos because they see the command as a continuing principle for God’s people. Others believe the command belonged particularly to Israel’s covenant life and does not automatically prohibit a modern tattoo.
The New Testament does not give a separate command saying that Christians must or must not have tattoos. It does teach that believers belong to God and should honour him with their bodies (1 Corinthians 6:20). That principle matters whatever conclusion someone reaches.
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
Questions to ask before getting one
If you are considering a tattoo, it may help to slow down and ask what is driving the decision. Is the design connected to something true, loving, and fitting for a follower of Jesus? Or is it coming from pressure, anger, grief, rebellion, or a need to prove something? A permanent choice deserves patient thought and prayer.
Consider your conscience too. Scripture teaches that choices made while inwardly doubting are not made from faith (Romans 14:23). If you cannot make the decision with peace before God, waiting is not weakness. It can be a thoughtful way of seeking to please him.
And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
Freedom guided by love
Christian freedom is more than asking whether something is permitted. Paul says that not everything allowed is helpful or builds people up (1 Corinthians 10:23). It is worth considering the message a tattoo communicates, its long-term effect, and whether it could cause unnecessary hurt or confusion for people close to you.
Having tattoos does not make someone less loved by God or unable to follow Christ. God sees beyond outward appearance and looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). Whether you have tattoos, want one, or choose not to, let your life be shaped by gratitude, humility, and a desire to honour the Lord in all you do (Colossians 3:17).