As a devout Christian, I have conducted extensive research on the intersection between faith and “worldly practices.” In particular, I am especially interested in tattoos, piercings, and if they can rob believers of the Kingdom of Heaven. Having attended several Christian seminars and even visited Catholic parishes to learn more about what evangelical leaders think, I consider myself an expert on the topic. Now, as a fully-fledged college theology teacher, one of my students coincidentally asked me about tattoos and piercings. Well, as a person well-versed with this information, I gave a detailed answer. So, can we go to Heaven with tattoos?
Many believe Christians can go to Heaven with tattoos. While getting tattoos may be frowned upon by the Church, it is opinioned that getting them is a personal decision that should ultimately be influenced by one’s faith (1 Corinthians 10:31). If it goes against God’s commands, it will be sinful. But even still, repentance for tattoos is possible (Proverbs 28:13).
Take a walk with me as I explore God’s views on tattoos and piercings. In this article, I shall also look at the different opinions on the subject and what getting these body modifications could mean for one’s salvation. This is a read you don’t want to miss!
What Does God Say About Getting A Tattoo?
Through God’s word, i.e., Leviticus 19:28, God says His followers should not have tattoo marks. This is an Old Testament verse that is not clearly interpreted but is believed to be a prohibition against tattoos from God to His children. This is because, at the time, they were known as pagan practices with strong ties to superstition, idolatry, and false gods. God wanted His people to be different from the heathens. Today, however, Christianity does not take tattoos to be evil unless they are meant to promote superstitions and paganism.
Are Christians Allowed to Have Tattoos?
Many believe the answer to this question all boils down to personal opinion. Some think it is permissible, while others do not because they view it as a pagan practice connected to mourning and idolatry. Leviticus 19:28 forbids bodily marks, and some believers understand them to be tattoos as we know them today. Other Christians think it is permissible to have tattoos and support this claim with Isaiah 44:5, which says the children of Jacob committed themselves to God using markings. According to them, this verse shows tattoos can be used as a show of devotion to the faith and not a human master or false God.
Will God Forgive Me for Getting A Religious Tattoo?
Many think that God will forgive Christians that get religious tattoos and that these modifications are permissible. To support this, proponents look at 1 Corinthians 10:23, which says everything is allowed but not necessarily beneficial. In context, religious tattoos are permitted and not sinful but are not useful and constructive to the faith. Additionally, some argue that Jesus Christ had a religious tattoo (Revelation 19:16) and, therefore, they are not sinful. However, Christians should pray for wisdom and discernment before getting these permanent markings.
Can I Go to Heaven with Piercings?
Many believe Christians with piercings can still go to Heaven so long as the marks are not against God’s commands and will. Theologians have come up with a Bible-based guide to help followers decipher whether a piercing is sinful or not. They say we should follow God’s Scripture. First, God says we should do everything to His glory (1 Corinthians 10:31), glorify Him with our bodies (1 Corinthians 6:20), and deliver His message throughout the world (2 Corinthians 5:20). Christians are, therefore, encouraged to consider these statements when getting piercings. They should not be detrimental to one’s faith or the Christian faith.
What Does God Say About Piercings?
In Leviticus 19:28, the Lord says that His followers should not make cuts (or piercings) on their bodies. It was common for dwellers of the areas surrounding Israel to mutilate and cut themselves, so to differentiate His followers from them, God ordered that they should not do the same. Piercings and cuts were seen as pagan mourning rituals and superstitious rites. Today, Christians are advised to use discernment and look at the intention behind their piercings (Proverbs 16:2). They should not have ungodly roots.
Does It Say Anywhere in The Bible Not to Pierce Your Body?
One verse, Leviticus 19:28, expressly states that you should not cut your body or put any tattoo marks on it. “Cutting,” in this instance, is understood by many to include body piercings, scarring, and mutilation. While some still follow this Old Testament rule, others believe the Laws of Christ, i.e., the New Testament, should be adopted. While the New Testament does not mention body piercings, Christianity widely teaches followers to use wisdom and have good motives behind the modifications.
Do Catholics Believe We Can Go to Heaven with Tattoos and Piercings?
It is believed by many Catholics that people with tattoos and piercings can still enter the Kingdom of Heaven. A section of the Catholic Church does, however, stand by the idea that tattoos are sinful since they were banned by Pope Adrian I at the Second Council of Nicaea of 787. Since then, dioceses and councils have held different opinions. With clashing authoritative thoughts on the subject, Catholics must use moral wisdom to determine if a piercing or tattoo is sinful and may deprive them of Heaven.
Can I Repent After Getting A Tattoo?
One can repent after getting a tattoo. If a tattoo is sinful or displeasing to God, reconciliation is possible, as Proverbs 28:13 states that we should not hide our sins. Instead, we are to confess them to the Lord, who will show mercy. Psalm 103:8-18 further reiterates that sins are ultimately pardoned once repented, and there is no need to continuously ask for forgiveness. But once you repent for getting an unrighteous tattoo, it should not be repeated.
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
