Tattoos have become a popular form of self-expression, but for some, the question of religious acceptance lingers. Can you get a tattoo and still be considered faithful? This blog post dives into what different religions say about tattoos.
Christianity: Debating Leviticus
The main scripture referenced in Christian discussions on tattoos is 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.”
However, there are interpretations that this verse was specific to mourning rituals in ancient times, not a blanket ban on tattoos. Additionally, Christians often point out that the New Testament emphasizes faith in Jesus for salvation, not following all Old Testament laws.
Judaism: The Traditional View
You must not make any cuts in your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD.
Leviticus 18:28 ויקרא פרק י”ט פס’ כ”ח
Judaism traditionally discourages tattoos based on Leviticus 18:28. However, there are varying levels of observance within Judaism, and some Jews may get tattoos without feeling it conflicts with their faith.
Islam: The Absence of a Clear Ruling
The Quran doesn’t explicitly mention tattoos. Some Islamic scholars interpret any permanent modification of the body as forbidden, while others believe tattoos are permissible as long as they are not religiously symbolic or unclean.
Hinduism and Buddhism: A Spiritual Perspective
In Hinduism and Buddhism, the body is seen as a vessel for the spirit. Tattoos can be seen as a way to adorn the temple and express devotion. In some Hindu traditions, specific tattoos are used for religious purposes.
So Can You Get Tattoos and Still Go to Heaven?
According to Christianity, the way a person gets to heaven is incredibly simple: they have to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and dedicate their life to following Him and His teachings. This is the only requirement and condition for salvation—there are no other strings attached (like having/not having tattoos). Anyone who claims otherwise is incorrect and is ignoring this core belief of the Christian faith.
Here are a few Bible verses that establish and support this:
- “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16 (NLT)
- “There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.” – Acts 4:12 (NLT)
- “Jesus told him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.’” – John 14:16 (NLT)
The Bible only mentions tattoos in a book that doesn’t apply to modern Christianity. Leviticus is an Old Testament book that outlined the religious requirements of the Israelites. After Jesus was born, crucified, and then resurrected, those laws were essentially overruled within the new Christian faith. By this logic, the rules of Leviticus should only be viewed in a historical context—not one that carries any direct implications about a Christian’s daily life. Leviticus 19:28 condemns tattoos in a pagan context, but not overall. It reads: “Do not cut your bodies for the dead and do not mark your skin with tattoos. I am the Lord.” Back in the age of the Old Testament, pagans apparently used self-mutilation practices to mourn those who passed away.
Ink and the Afterlife: Perspectives Across Faiths
The question of whether tattoos impact one’s spiritual journey has intrigued believers across various religions. While some faith traditions view tattoos as irreverent or distracting, others embrace body art as an expression of devotion. For instance, Bali Hindus incorporate intricate patterns into their tattoos, carrying blessings wherever they go. However, the deeper meaning behind tattoos remains subjective. Ultimately, respect for individual choices and mindfulness of their power should guide our understanding of ink in the context of faith and the afterlife.