Christians & Tattoos

I have three tattoos. And I’ve been thinking of getting a few more. I also happen to be a Christian that really digs tattoos. I think they’re unique, creative, and beautiful. However, in the Christian faith, they’re also a topic of controversy. There are a lot of people, particularly certain Christians, who view tattoos as sinful and rebellious. A popular go-to scripture supporting those who are opposed to tattoos can be found in Leviticus 19:28 which reads, “Do not cut your bodies for the dead, and do not mark your skin with tattoos. I am the LORD.”

Some Christians have even insisted that getting tattoos can send you to hell. But I strongly disagree. In fact, I don’t believe tattoos are a heaven or hell issue that dictates anyone’s salvation. And I’ve got a problem with any Christians who go around telling anyone they’re going to hell. First of all, who do you think you are? Surely you can’t think you’re God. Neither is your pastor or your church community or any other religious organizations you might be affiliated with. You’re in no position to call where someone’s soul will end up. I’m abundantly grateful God’s not like man, in the sense that he wouldn’t condemn someone or quickly toss them aside because of something like a tattoo…or several of them. I know preachers who have them. Youth pastors, choir members, ushers, teachers, mentors, counselors, and more, who happen to be Christians and don’t have any kind of shame about being inked.

When I got my first tattoo, I was terrified. The thought of a painful needle was the least of my worries. Going through the physical process of getting tattoos wasn’t as painful as I imagined. What troubled me the most was pushing through a lot of shame, worry, and limited thinking about what certain Christians might say or think of me once they saw me with one. And now I have three! So, I’m not as bothered or concerned about what others think as I once was. I had a former friend who opposed what I was doing, though. She shared that my decision was something a future spouse may not be okay with, which I found odd. Personally, I’d never put my life on hold or a decision about what I want to do with my body because of what a spouse I don’t have or may eventually have, thinks. I’m not married. And even if I was, getting a tattoo is not something I’d ask permission to do anyway. I’m a grown woman who makes my own choices. And if you’re a young woman who meets a guy who has an issue with your tattoo/tattoos before you start dating, reconsider if you want to be with someone who doesn’t accept you as you are. Anyways, I believe getting tattoos or deciding not to get them is an individual choice. Whether Christian or not, no one is in a position to judge you because of your choice. Do you and live your life.

The Day I Became A Kidney Donor

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Making Waves