What does Leviticus 19:28 really mean?

Find the biblical answer to "What does Leviticus 19:28 really mean?" in our comprehensive guide on what does the bible say about tattoos.

Is getting a tattoo a sin for Christians?

Find the biblical answer to "Is getting a tattoo a sin for Christians?" in our comprehensive guide on what does the bible say about tattoos.

What questions should I ask before getting a tattoo?

Find the biblical answer to "What questions should I ask before getting a tattoo?" in our comprehensive guide on what does the bible say about tattoos.

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What Does the Bible Say About Tattoos?

Examining Scripture on body markings, Leviticus 19:28, and Christian freedom

Quick Answer

The Bible mentions tattoos once in Leviticus 19:28: "Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves." This Old Testament law was given to Israel to distinguish them from pagan mourning practices. The New Testament doesn't mention tattoos directly. Christians today consider principles like honoring God with our bodies (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) and not causing others to stumble when making this personal decision.

Updated November 28, 2025

9+ Bible verses

Table of Contents

The Old Testament on Tattoos: Leviticus 19:28

Understanding the original context and meaning of the Bible's only direct reference to tattoos.

"You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the LORD."
— Leviticus 19:28 (ESV)

"You shall not round off the hair on your temples or mar the edges of your beard."
— Leviticus 19:27 (ESV)

"You are the sons of the LORD your God. You shall not cut yourselves or make any baldness on your foreheads for the dead."
— Deuteronomy 14:1 (ESV)

New Testament Principles for Christians

How the New Testament guides believers in decisions about their bodies.

"Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body."
— 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (ESV)

"But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin."
— Romans 14:23 (ESV)

"For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery."
— Galatians 5:1 (ESV)

Practical Wisdom for Making the Decision

Biblical principles to consider when deciding about tattoos.

"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."
— 1 Corinthians 10:31 (ESV)

"Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother."
— Romans 14:13 (ESV)

"And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
— Colossians 3:17 (ESV)