Thinking about getting inked? It's a question many believers wrestle with: what does the Bible *actually* say about tattoos? The most cited verse is Leviticus 19:28, "You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord."
Taken literally, this seems like a clear prohibition. However, understanding the context is crucial. Leviticus contains laws specifically for the nation of Israel, setting them apart from surrounding pagan cultures. Many scholars believe this verse was related to mourning rituals common in those cultures, practices God forbade to his people.
Nowhere else in the New Testament are tattoos explicitly mentioned as sinful. The focus shifts to the inward transformation of the heart (Romans 12:2) and honoring God with our bodies (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Ultimately, whether or not to get a tattoo is a matter of personal conviction. Consider your motives, the message your tattoo conveys, and whether it honors God. Pray for wisdom and seek counsel from trusted spiritual mentors.
