Calling, work and everyday life
Is it a sin to get a tattoo?
Short answer
Most Christians believe it isn't a sin in itself. The bigger questions are why you want one and whether it honours God.
Leviticus 19:28 says not to make cuts in your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. It was tied to pagan mourning rituals, beside a rule about trimming beards. Most Christians believe Jesus fulfilled Israel's ceremonial law, so it doesn't apply directly today. Some still avoid tattoos out of conscience.
That doesn't make every tattoo a good idea. Ask: Why do I want it? Does the design honour God? Will I want it in 30 years? If I'm under 18, what do my parents think?
God looks at the heart. Your body is His, with or without ink, and He doesn't love you less for a tattoo you regret.
Pray, talk to people you trust, and wait a while before you decide.
My verses
You must not cut off the hair at the sides of your head or clip off the edges of your beard. You must not make any cuts in your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD.
Do you not know that your body is a temple 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 glorify God with your body.
But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him; the LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart.”
One person regards a certain day above the others, while someone else considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.