As a trainee pastor, I have encountered many interesting experiences during my travels to various country churches. One encounter, in particular, stands out in my mind. A lady approached me without hesitation and pointed at the tattoos on my arm, asking if I had gotten them before I was saved. This incident raises a common question: Are tattoos acceptable in Christianity? Let’s dive deeper into this topic and explore what the Bible has to say.
The Controversial View
Many Christians hold the belief that tattoos have no place in Christianity. Some even quote Leviticus to support their stance. Leviticus 19:28 states, “You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo (קַֽעֲקַ֔ע) yourselves.” However, a closer examination of this verse is necessary to gain a comprehensive understanding.
The term translated as “tattoo” (קַֽעֲקַ֔ע or qa’aqa’) is a disputed word that appears only once in the Bible. Its exact meaning is uncertain, as it can be translated as incision, tattoo, or mark. Moreover, it is derived from a root word meaning “cut off.” This ambiguity makes it challenging to determine if the verse refers to modern-day tattooing. Therefore, basing a dogmatic statement solely on this verse is not advisable.
Seeking Clarity from Parallel Passages
To shed more light on the issue, we can examine parallel passages. Deuteronomy 14:1 provides a similar prohibition: “You shall not cut yourselves or make any baldness on your foreheads for the dead.” Here, the act of cutting oneself is repeated, but the mention of tattoos is absent. It is worth noting that we do not enforce a prohibition on shaving one’s forehead.
The common element in both Leviticus and Deuteronomy is the reference to “the dead.” This suggests that the prohibition revolves around altering one’s appearance as an act of honor or sacrifice to the deceased. In ancient pagan religions, such practices were prevalent. As Christians, we are called to worship and glorify God alone, and these customs should have no place in our lives.
A Matter of Personal Conscience
Considering the ambiguity surrounding Leviticus 19:28, the status of the disputed word, and the application of Levitical law in contemporary Christianity, it becomes clear that the issue of tattoos cannot be definitively settled. Instead, it becomes a matter of personal conscience, as described in Romans 14.
In this chapter, the apostle Paul emphasizes that certain matters come down to individual convictions. If you believe that tattoos are acceptable and can ultimately bring glory to God, Scripture does not condemn you. Personally, I have shared the gospel with numerous individuals, including my tattoo artist, as a result of my tattoos. However, it is crucial not to judge or look down upon those who choose not to have tattoos.
Likewise, if you genuinely believe that God does not want you to have tattoos or it conflicts with your conscience, it is important to honor God by remaining tattoo-free. However, as Paul advises, we should not use our personal convictions to impose them as authoritative beliefs on other Christians. Romans 14 encourages us to live according to our individual convictions while respecting the freedom of others to make their own choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a Christian have tattoos?
Absolutely. As we’ve discussed, the Bible does not explicitly forbid tattoos. It becomes a personal decision guided by one’s own convictions and relationship with God.
Q: Should Christians judge others based on their tattoo choices?
No. Romans 14 teaches us not to judge or look down on others for their choices. It is essential to respect the freedom of other Christians to make their own decisions regarding tattoos.
Q: Can tattoos be a means of sharing the gospel?
Certainly. Tattoos can serve as conversation starters and opportunities to share our faith with others. However, it is crucial to approach such conversations with sensitivity and respect.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the question of whether tattoos are permissible for Christians cannot be definitively answered. The Bible does not explicitly condemn or endorse tattoos, making it a matter of personal conviction. What matters most is our devotion to God and our love for others. Whether you choose to have tattoos or not, let it be a decision that aligns with your relationship with God and respects the freedom of others. Remember, our faith should be the focus, and tattoos should not become a cause for division or judgment within the Christian community.
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