Bible Verses About Tattoos KJV: What Does Scripture Really Say?

Tattoos have become a widely accepted form of self-expression in modern culture. From meaningful Bible verses inked on arms to intricate designs that tell personal stories, tattoos are common among people of all ages — including Christians. But what does the Bible say about tattoos? More specifically, what does the King James Version (KJV) say about tattoos?

If you’ve ever wondered whether getting a tattoo is a sin or whether Scripture forbids body art, this article will walk you through the relevant Bible verses in the KJV, provide context, and offer thoughtful insight to help you make an informed, prayerful decision.

The Key Bible Verse About Tattoos in KJV

When discussing tattoos in the Bible, one verse is quoted more than any other:

📖 Leviticus 19:28 (KJV)

“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 Law given to the Israelites. At first glance, it appears to clearly forbid tattoos. However, understanding the historical and cultural context is critical.

Understanding the Context of Leviticus 19:28

Before applying this verse directly to modern-day Christians, it’s important to examine:

1. The Cultural Setting

In ancient times, surrounding pagan nations practiced:

• Cutting themselves as part of mourning rituals
• Marking their bodies to honor false gods
• Performing pagan religious rites involving body markings

Leviticus 19 primarily outlines laws that distinguished Israel from pagan practices. The prohibition against markings was likely connected to these idolatrous rituals.

2. The Old Covenant vs. The New Covenant

Christians today live under the New Covenant established by Jesus Christ. Many Old Testament ceremonial and civil laws were specifically for Israel and are not binding under the New Testament.

For example:

• We no longer follow dietary laws (Leviticus 11).
• Animal sacrifices are no longer required.
• Certain ceremonial purity laws are no longer practiced.

This raises an important question: Was Leviticus 19:28 a moral law for all time, or a ceremonial law specific to Israel?

Faithful Christians often differ in interpretation.

New Testament Principles to Consider

While the New Testament does not specifically mention tattoos, it does give principles that can guide Christian conduct.

📖 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 (KJV)

“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you… 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:

• Your body belongs to God.
• Believers should honor God with their bodies.

The key consideration becomes motive and intention. Ask yourself:

• Does this tattoo glorify God?
• Is it consistent with my Christian witness?
• Is it motivated by faith or impulse?

Marks for God: A Biblical Perspective

Interestingly, the Bible also mentions positive markings in a spiritual sense.

📖 Isaiah 44:5 (KJV)

“One shall say, I am the LORD’s; and another shall call himself by the name of Jacob; and another shall subscribe with his hand unto the LORD…”

Some scholars suggest this could reference marking oneself as belonging to the Lord, though interpretations vary. Additionally:

📖 Revelation 19:16 (KJV)

“And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.”

While this describes Christ in apocalyptic imagery rather than a literal tattoo, it shows that inscriptions themselves are not inherently sinful.

Is Getting a Tattoo a Sin?

The Bible does not directly say, “Thou shalt not get a tattoo” in a clear New Testament command. Therefore, the issue often comes down to:

✅ Heart Motive

Why are you getting the tattoo?

✅ Content of the Tattoo

Does it:

• Promote biblical truth?
• Glorify God?
• Express faith?

Or does it:

• Promote ungodly themes?
• Cause confusion about your beliefs?

✅ Influence and Witness

Romans 14 teaches believers not to cause others to stumble. Consider:

• Will this negatively affect my testimony?
• Could it harm younger believers’ faith?

Christian Perspectives on Tattoos

Faithful Christians often fall into three general viewpoints:

1. Tattoos Are Biblically Forbidden

They interpret Leviticus 19:28 as a timeless moral command.

2. Tattoos Are Permissible with Godly Intent

They see the Old Testament law as ceremonial and not binding under grace.

3. Tattoos Are a Matter of Christian Liberty

As long as the motive is pure and the content is honoring to God, believers have freedom in Christ.

Practical Questions to Ask Before Getting a Tattoo

If you’re prayerfully considering a tattoo, reflect on these:

• Am I seeking God’s guidance in this decision?
• Would I feel comfortable if Jesus returned tomorrow?
• Is this tattoo something I’ll regret later?
• Does it align with Scripture and my Christian values?

Taking time for prayer and wise counsel (Proverbs 11:14) is always wise.

Final Thoughts: What Does the KJV Bible Say About Tattoos?

The King James Version (KJV) clearly mentions tattoos in Leviticus 19:28, forbidding markings in the context of pagan rituals under the Old Covenant. However, the New Testament does not directly address tattoos for Christians today.

Ultimately, the Bible emphasizes:

• Honoring God with your body
• Living as a distinct and holy people
• Acting according to faith and conscience

Whether you choose to get a tattoo or not, the greater focus of Scripture is not outward markings — but the condition of the heart.

“Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.” — 1 Samuel 16:7 (KJV)

As with many modern issues, wisdom, prayer, and biblical discernment are key. Let your decisions reflect a love for Christ, a desire to honor God, and a commitment to living faithfully according to His Word.

If you found this helpful, consider sharing it with someone who may also be seeking biblical clarity on this topic.