Bible verses against tattoos new testament
While there are no specific verses in the New Testament that explicitly condemn tattoos, there are some passages that can be interpreted as cautioning against certain forms of bodily adornment or modification. Here are a few examples:
- 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - "What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's."
This passage emphasizes the importance of treating one's body as a temple of the Holy Spirit, and some interpreters argue that this implies a rejection of any form of bodily modification, including tattoos.
- 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 - "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."
Similar to the previous passage, this verse emphasizes the importance of treating one's body as a temple of God, and some interpreters argue that this implies a rejection of any form of bodily modification, including tattoos.
- Leviticus 19:28 - "Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the Lord."
This verse is part of the Old Testament, but some Christians may still apply its principles to their own lives. While it specifically prohibits cutting or marking one's flesh for the dead, some interpreters argue that it sets a general principle against bodily modification.
- Colossians 3:5 - "Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry."
This passage is often interpreted as a call to mortify or put to death one's sinful desires and behaviors. Some interpreters argue that this includes any form of bodily modification that is motivated by a desire for self-expression or vanity, including tattoos.
It's important to note that these passages are open to interpretation, and not all Christians agree on their application to tattoos. Some may argue that these passages are not specifically addressing tattoos, or that they are more concerned with spiritual issues than physical appearance. Ultimately, the decision to get a tattoo is a personal one that should be made in consultation with one's own faith and conscience.