Leviticus 19:28 – Is Getting a Tattoo a Sin? What the Bible Says

The verse of Leviticus 19:28 is often cited in debates about tattoos. It says:

“You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you. I am the LORD.”

This passage has been interpreted in different ways throughout history and is still used as an argument when the subject is tattooing. But does Leviticus 19:28 really speak about the modern tattoos we know today?

In this article, we will explore in depth the connection between the verse and the practice of tattooing the body, analyzing the historical context, religious views, and current interpretations.

Quick Summary of Leviticus 19:28 and Tattoos

Leviticus 19:28 forbids cuts and marks on the body connected to pagan rituals.
In antiquity, tattoos had religious value and were associated with idolatry.
Today, tattoos are seen as art and personal expression, but the verse still generates debate.
Some religious traditions apply the text literally, rejecting tattoos.
Other interpretations understand that the focus is the cultural context of that time.
The main lesson is to reflect on respect for the body and spiritual identity.

Leviticus 19:28 and the Question of Tattoos

Leviticus 19:28 mentions that one should not make marks upon the body. For many scholars and believers, this is a direct reference to tattoos, while others argue that the text speaks only of pagan symbols linked to idolatry and mourning rites.

Tattooing in Antiquity

At the time Leviticus 19:28 was written, tattoos did not have the artistic character they often have today. They were used in pagan religious contexts, as a way of honoring the dead or as a mark of devotion to deities. Thus, the prohibition had a spiritual purpose: to separate Israel from these practices.

Tattooing Today

Today, tattoos are seen mainly as art, personal expression, or a reminder of important moments. This cultural difference raises the question: what does Leviticus 19:28 actually forbid—any tattoo, or only those tied to ancient idolatry?

Are Tattoos a Sin? What Leviticus 19:28 Says

The question “are tattoos a sin?” is one of the most common when the subject involves Leviticus 19:28. The answer, however, is not single and varies according to interpretation.

Arguments that tattoos are sinful

The verse clearly prohibits making marks on the body.
The body is seen as the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19–20).
Many religious leaders understand that tattoos still carry worldly influences.

Arguments that tattoos are not sinful

Leviticus 19:28 speaks of marks tied to pagan rituals, not modern artistic tattooing.
The New Testament emphasizes the intention of the heart more than external rules.
Tattoos can simply be cultural expression, without negative spiritual value.

Final reflection

The debate about whether tattoos are sinful shows that the question goes beyond the skin. What is essential is to evaluate intentions, meanings, and whether the choice respects one’s faith and spiritual identity.

Religious Interpretations of Leviticus 19:28 and Tattoos

Judaism

In Judaism, Leviticus 19:28 is followed literally. Therefore, tattoos are generally rejected, even when they have no religious connection.

Traditional Christianity

Many Christian denominations use Leviticus 19:28 as a basis for not recommending tattoos, understanding that the body should remain without marks.

Modern Christianity

Among contemporary Christians, the interpretation that the verse only addresses ancient contexts has grown. Thus, modern tattoos may not be seen as a violation of the text.

The Body as a Temple: A Spiritual Reflection

Besides Leviticus 19:28, other verses reinforce the idea that the body matters:

1 Corinthians 6:19–20: “Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit.”
Romans 12:1: “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice.”

These texts do not speak directly about tattoos, but they prompt reflection: how do our choices regarding the body demonstrate reverence to God?

Arguments For and Against Tattoos Based on Leviticus 19:28

Against

The text clearly says not to make marks.
The body should be preserved without alterations.
Following the verse literally demonstrates obedience.

For

Leviticus 19:28 was connected to pagan rites, not modern art.
The historical context differs from today’s.
The most important factor is the intention behind the tattoo.

Other Issues Related to Leviticus 19:28

Beyond tattooing, the verse also addresses cutting the body in mourning rituals. This shows how outward practices were linked to pagan traditions and how God wanted His people to be different.

Leviticus 19:28 and Spiritual Identity

The main message of Leviticus 19:28 is about identity and holiness. God’s people were not to be confused with other nations through outward practices that revealed ties to idolatry.

The Current Debate: Can a Christian Get a Tattoo?

This is one of the most common questions tied to Leviticus 19:28. The answer depends on the religious tradition:

Conservative churches reject tattoos.
More modern churches allow them, provided they do not disrespect spiritual values.

In the end, each person should reflect on the intention, meaning, and impact of their choices.

Lessons from Leviticus 19:28

Even with different interpretations, the verse reminds us to:

Value the body as God’s creation.
Assess the context of our cultural practices.
Avoid choices that compromise spiritual identity.

The Vatican and Tattoos: Is There an Official Position?

Many people want to know whether the Vatican has a clear stance on tattoos and how Leviticus 19:28 applies to Catholics. The truth is that there is no official document that absolutely condemns modern tattoos, but there are a few important points to consider.

The Biblical Text on the Vatican Site

On the Vatican’s own website, the English Bible translation renders Leviticus 19:28:
“Do not lacerate your bodies for the dead, and do not tattoo yourselves. I am the LORD.”
This is the most commonly used biblical basis in the debate.
🔗 Vatican Archive – Leviticus 19:28

Pope Francis’s Remarks

In a general audience, Pope Francis mentioned a young man “with his body covered in tattoos” who approached confession. He did not condemn tattooing, but emphasized the importance of mercy and faith over appearances.
🔗 Vatican – General Audience, 12/21/2022

Work Rules in the Vatican

In 2024, the administration of St. Peter’s Basilica announced rules forbidding visible tattoos and piercings for its employees. However, this rule concerns professional decorum and is not a spiritual doctrine.
🔗 Catholic News Agency – No tattoos for Vatican employees

Conclusion on the Vatican’s Position

There is no universal prohibition of tattoos in the Catholic Church.
The restrictions observed are local or contextual (workplace, ceremonies, etc.).
The emphasis is always on intention, faith, and respect for the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit.

FAQ on Leviticus 19:28 and Tattoos

Does Leviticus 19:28 forbid modern tattoos?

Some believe it does; others say no, since the text refers to ancient rituals.

Can a Christian get a tattoo?

It depends on the interpretation adopted. Many religious leaders recommend caution and reflection.

What does “any marks on you” mean?

It most likely referred to pagan symbols and religious tattoos of that time.

Is Leviticus 19:28 still valid today?

Yes, but its application varies according to each tradition’s reading.

Are tattoos a sin?

The debate is ongoing. For some, it’s a direct violation of the verse; for others, it has no link to modern tattoos.

Conclusion

Leviticus 19:28 remains one of the most-remembered verses when the topic is tattooing. It arose in a specific historical context in which bodily marks were tied to mourning rites and pagan practices. Therefore, its original intent was to separate the people of Israel from these traditions and reinforce their identity as a holy nation.

Today, tattooing is understood differently: for many, it is art, memory, or personal expression—not idolatry. Even so, the verse raises an important reflection: how we use our bodies and whether our choices honor them as God’s creation.

More than a rigid rule, Leviticus 19:28 invites us to think about spiritual principles such as holiness, identity, and purpose. The answer to the question “Are tattoos a sin?” may vary by religious tradition, but what is essential is to evaluate the intention, meaning, and the coherence of each decision with the faith one professes.

READ ALSO:

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK

Milagres Hoje