The issue of sin, the Bible’s religious and moral teachings, and their relationship to the art of tattooing is a fascinating modern topic for discourse. Many followers of Christ look to ink for strength, benediction, and as a reminder for leading a life of virtue under God’s direction. 

With the growing popularity of tattoos in the United States and beyond, many Christians are left wondering where the practice falls regarding religious dogma and official position from the churches of Christ. 

Many different people have voiced opinions, citing a variety of competing verses and passages from the Bible as justification for their stance on the issue. History has taught us that people can (and will) use religious texts to rationalize every point of view, so with so many voices on either side of the debate, how can we get to the bottom of the issue? 

This article will examine arguments for and against whether Christians should get tattoos through investigation of specific verses from the Bible. It will also explore the modern Christian clergy’s official stance on the issues of tattoo, and compare with some of the other popular religions

Biblical Evidence 

When it comes to tattoos, many Christians who are against the practice use verses from the Bible to justify their conservative stance. The most common of these verses is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Leviticus. According to Leviticus 19:28, “You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the Lord.” 

To many, this is all the evidence that they need to forbid their flock from getting inked. The reality is that things are a lot more complicated than this popular refrain.  

The Modern Church 

Tattoos have long been a topic of long theological discussion. While these dialogues can be informative, given the growing acceptance of tattoos in modern culture and the need for the Church to change and adapt to modern society, what do the current leaders of the Church have to say about tattoos?