What Does Scripture Say about Tattoos, Body Art & Piercings?
A brother asks, “What does Scripture say about tattoos, body art and piercings?” Had the question been phrased – “What does the New Testament say about tattoos, body art and piercings?” – the answer would simply be, “Nothing.” Preferences and opinions aside, the New Testament does not specifically address tattoos, body art and piercings. Indirectly, there may be some principles that one may wish to use against them, but still the New Testament does not expressly address tattoos, body art and piercings. Good judgment and responsible decorum that does not distract from one’s Christianity ought to be considered (1 Timothy 2:9).
The Old Testament, though, does address tattoos and cutting the flesh, but the Old Testament is neither now the law of God to which we turn to order our lives nor the law of God by which anyone presently living will be judged (Romans 7:6-7; 2 Corinthians 3:11; Ephesians 2:15; Colossians 2:14; Hebrews 8:8-13). The Old Testament prohibitions regarding tattoos and cutting of the flesh pertained to the adoption of the practices by idolatrous peoples.
Old Testament restrictions concerning tattoos and cuttings of the flesh not only pertained to the popular idolatry of that day, but they also are confined to the Old Covenant, which is no longer in effect. Brother Wayne Jackson has written a fine, brief article about tattoos and cutting of the flesh, which I recommend readers of Gospel Gazette Online read for themselves in full.
