The issue of body piercings and tattoos among Christians has been a subject of debate for many years, primarily due to cultural, personal, and biblical considerations. There is no explicit New Testament prohibition against tattoos or body piercings, but there are principles in the Bible that can help guide Christians as they consider these choices. Below is a balanced view on the topic, addressing various biblical, cultural, and personal factors.
1. Old Testament Context
Scripture: Leviticus 19:28
- Leviticus 19:28 – “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.”
Key Insight:
- Some Christians point to this verse as a direct prohibition against tattoos. In context, this Old Testament command was given to the Israelites as part of the Mosaic Law to distinguish them from pagan nations that practiced body modifications in religious rituals, particularly related to mourning the dead.
- It’s important to note that Christians are not under the Old Testament ceremonial laws, as they were fulfilled by Christ (Romans 10:4, Galatians 3:24-25). However, the principle behind the law—setting oneself apart from pagan practices—can still be relevant.
Application:
- While the specific prohibition in Leviticus may not apply to Christians under the New Covenant, the underlying principle of honoring God in how we present our bodies remains important. Christians should reflect on the cultural significance and the heart behind any body modification.
2. Your Body as a Temple of the Holy Spirit
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
- 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – “Do you not know that your bodies are temples 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 honor God with your bodies.”
Key Insight:
- This passage emphasizes that the body of a Christian belongs to God and is the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, Christians are called to honor God with their bodies in all things, including how they treat and present their physical selves.
- The verse doesn’t directly address tattoos or piercings, but it highlights the need to consider whether these choices honor God and reflect a commitment to treating the body with respect.
Application:
- Before getting a tattoo or piercing, Christians should reflect on whether it aligns with their commitment to glorify God. It’s essential to assess personal motivations: Is the decision driven by vanity, rebellion, or cultural pressure, or is it a neutral or meaningful expression of identity in Christ?
3. Cultural and Personal Considerations
Key Insight:
- Cultural Context: In some cultures, tattoos and body piercings are associated with rebellion, gang activity, or pagan rituals, while in others, they may be seen as forms of art or personal expression. Christians should be sensitive to how their tattoos or piercings will be perceived by others within their culture.
- Personal Motivation: Christians should ask themselves why they want a tattoo or piercing. Is it to glorify God, to express faith, or simply to follow a trend? Understanding one’s motivation is key to ensuring the decision is made in a way that aligns with Christian values.
Application:
- Consider the message your tattoo or piercing might send to others in your community or church. Does it reflect your identity in Christ, or could it potentially lead others to question your commitment to living out biblical values?
- If you are in a cultural or religious setting where tattoos or piercings could cause division or misunderstanding, it may be wise to reconsider the decision in order to avoid being a stumbling block for others (1 Corinthians 8:9).
4. Freedom in Christ
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:23
- 1 Corinthians 10:23 – “I have the right to do anything, you say—but not everything is beneficial. I have the right to do anything—but not everything is constructive.”
Key Insight:
- Christians have freedom in Christ, and decisions regarding tattoos or piercings fall into areas of Christian liberty where there is no explicit command in the New Testament. However, this freedom should be exercised with wisdom and love for others, ensuring that decisions build up and do not harm.
- While it may be permissible to get a tattoo or piercing, it’s important to consider whether it is truly beneficial to one’s spiritual life and testimony.
Application:
- In exercising your freedom, think about how your choices will affect your walk with God, your witness to others, and your own spiritual growth. If a tattoo or piercing serves as a meaningful expression of your faith or identity in Christ, it may be acceptable. However, if it distracts from your faith or creates unnecessary division, it may be wise to reconsider.
5. Avoiding Vanity and Worldliness
Scripture: 1 Peter 3:3-4
- 1 Peter 3:3-4 – “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
Key Insight:
- While this verse speaks primarily about women and outward adornment, the principle applies to all Christians. The focus of a Christian’s life should not be on outward appearance but on cultivating inner character and a heart that seeks after God.
- Christians are called to avoid vanity and excessive concern with appearance, including tattoos and piercings. Instead, the emphasis should be on developing Christ-like character.
Application:
- Before deciding on a tattoo or piercing, examine your heart. If the decision is primarily about seeking attention or improving your appearance in a worldly sense, it may be worth reconsidering. Focus on building inner beauty that reflects Christ.
Summary:
There is no explicit New Testament prohibition against tattoos or body piercings, and these choices fall under Christian freedom. However, Christians should carefully consider their motivations, the cultural and personal impact, and whether these decisions honor God. While some may choose to express their faith or identity in Christ through body art, others may feel led to avoid it out of concern for modesty, cultural implications, or potential stumbling blocks for others.
Important Questions to Ask Before Getting a Tattoo or Piercing:
- Does this honor God? – Does your tattoo or piercing reflect a desire to glorify God, or is it driven by vanity, rebellion, or cultural pressure?
- What is my motivation? – Are you seeking attention, trying to fit in, or is this a meaningful expression of your faith or personal journey?
- How will it impact others? – Will your tattoo or piercing serve as a positive witness for Christ, or could it be a stumbling block for others in your community?
- Is this beneficial? – While it may be permissible, is it constructive and beneficial to your spiritual walk and witness?
Ultimately, the decision to get a tattoo or piercing should be made thoughtfully, prayerfully, and with a desire to glorify God in all things.