Tattoo fever first has hit the world several decades ago. They come in all shapes and sizes. Some people are so eager to inject ink into their skin that their bodies are covered in doodles and artistic expressions. There are people who are visually appealing. Others dismiss those who observe it. Today we will be discussing tattoos and their appeal, from a Christian viewpoint. This blog will also deal with some popular questions regarding tattoos, Christianity and heaven.
Tattoos in Ancient Culture
Tattoos were generally used as a sign of worship or to venerate a god or idol. The others understood which god the other person served as soon as they saw the mark. They were used to distinguish someone’s social standing or military rank in several cultures, such as Greek and Roman. In the case of slaves, they were also utilized as a token of belonging.
The Two Christian Viewpoints
There are two views on tattooing within Christianity. On the one hand, there are Christians who believe that getting a tattoo is not an issue, and on the other hand, there are those who believe that Christians should not acquire tattoos. Christians who support tattooing do so because Leviticus 19:28 mentions rituals to glorify pagan gods. There is no problem if the person does not want to glorify idols or other gods. They are not opposed to a Christian having a tattoo just for the sake of art or as a memory of something exceptional.
Anti-tattooing Christians claim that the text forbids tattooing for whatever cause. Some people do not believe it is appropriate to mimic or follow an ancient pagan custom. Others believe that any tattoo or mark we get on our bodies is wrong. Both groups agree that tattoos are forbidden in the Bible and that this prohibition is still in effect today.
The Bible
Tattoos as we know them now are not mentioned in the Bible. We discuss the artistic procedure of injecting ink into the skin with a unique equipment. However, the Bible does mention skin tags, which have been translated as skin tattoos in various copies of the Bible over time. It is specifically stated in Leviticus 19:28, “Do not make wounds on the body because of the dead, nor tattoos on the skin.” “I, the Lord.” In Leviticus 19:28, it reads, “You must not put tattoo marks.” God gave this command to the Israelites because he did not want them to be like neighboring peoples who cut the names or symbols of their gods into their skins (Deuteronomy 14:2).
Although Christians are not subject to the Law that God provided to the Israelites, the principle underlying this instruction merits careful examination. In verse 28, there is a reference to various pagan customs. Among these traditions is the cutting and injuring of the body as a symbol of mourning. It was a kind of remembrance for the departed. It was also used to determine who owned a slave. They did this by making a wound with a sharp weapon and then filling it with ink. Read more about painful tattoo placements.
How do Christians interpret this verse today?
Many Christians today use the Leviticus passage to excuse their refusal to get a tattoo, believing that doing so would be perpetuating an ancient pagan custom. Others, on the other hand, believe there is no issue because the verse refers to acts to respect pagan gods, and if the reason for the tattoo is not to honor one of them, there should be no issue. And, as previously stated, the majority of tattoos nowadays reflect a tribute, a recall, or an excellent aspect of your life.
Is it okay for a Christian to get tattoos?
Let us look at some biblical writings that can be used as a guide.
“Let women adorn themselves with modesty and good judgment.” (Titus 2:19.) This principle also applies to men. The Christian’s look should not draw undue attention to himself or others. Some people acquire tattoos to reinforce their identity or to feel free in their own skin. The Bible, on the other hand, exhorts Christians to “present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, a sacred service with your power of reason” (Romans 12:1). The “faculty of reason,” or the ability to reason, might assist someone considering getting a tattoo in analyzing their motivations. For example, you may want to follow a trend or demonstrate your membership in a specific organization. But in that case, consider this: “What will I do if the tattoo goes out of style or if I regret it?” If a person examines his intentions, he will be able to make sound decisions (Proverbs 4:7).
“The plans of the diligent tend to benefit, but all who are hasty are bound for want.” 21:5 (Proverbs) Tattoos are frequently chosen on the spur of the moment. However, whomever makes that decision may be forced to live with the repercussions for a long time. Your interpersonal relationships or employment may suffer as a result. In addition, tattoo removal is both costly and painful. Many people have expressed sorrow over having them. And the thriving tattoo removal business attests to this.
Can you go to heaven with tattoos.
Tattoos do not hinder people from going to paradise after death. Some Christians feel that getting ink on your skin is a sin and sinful practice. However, according to Bibble, going to paradise is dependent on a person’s trust in Jesus Christ. Even though they have tattoos, people who believe that Christ died for their sins and rose from the dead are admitted to heaven.
What to consider before getting a tattoo as a christian?
If you are considering getting a tattoo, you should do the following.
- Pray first and foremost. Seek God’s direction and confirmation.
- Talk to your pastor about your feelings. Inquire about the position of the church to which you belong.
- Ask yourself if it will be a hindrance to your fellow believers.
- Consider your motivation. What makes you want to get a tattoo? Do you want to draw attention or create controversy? Do you consider it to be attractive or an artistic expression? What motivates you?
- Don’t let friends or fashion influence you. Don’t get a tattoo just to please other people.
- Choose your tattoo with caution. Consider yourself in 50 years with that tattoo. Will it make you feel ashamed? Will it make you laugh? Will you find it interesting to look at?
- Think about how it will effect your life. Will it, for example, create problems at work?