Does the Bible Actually Forbid Tattoos? Religious Scholars Weigh in on the Scripture

Are does the Bible Actually Forbid Tattoos? Religious Scholars Weigh in on the Scripture a topic you are researching? Read expert analysis in our feature story.

Q1: Does Leviticus 19:28 still apply to Christians today?
A1: Leviticus 19:28 is part of the Old Testament ceremonial and civil law given to ancient Israel to keep them distinct from pagan Canaanite mourning practices. Under the New Covenant, Christians are not bound by Old Testament ceremonial statutes, as these were fulfilled in Christ.

Q2: Is getting a tattoo considered a sin in the New Testament?
A2: The New Testament contains no explicit prohibition against tattoos. Instead, passages such as Romans 14 emphasize personal conscience, modesty, and whether an individual's choices honor God without causing a brother or sister in faith to stumble.

Q3: How should a Christian choose a Bible verse tattoo?
A3: Believers should reflect on their motivations, verify accurate scriptural translations, and choose designs that reflect genuine spiritual conviction. Popular passages include Philippians 4:13, Psalm 23, and Romans 8:38, 39, etched in biblical calligraphy as an enduring reminder of divine faithfulness.