Overview
Leviticus 19:28 explicitly forbids tattooing as part of Israel's covenant law. Evangelical interpreters debate whether this command remains binding for Christians or was specific to Old Testament ceremonial practice. The verse appears amid holiness laws distinguishing Israel from surrounding pagan nations.
Key Scriptures
"You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the LORD" (Leviticus 19:28, NASB).
"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?" (1 Corinthians 6:19, NIV).
Application
While believers hold differing convictions on tattoos, all should consider whether body modifications reflect stewardship of the body as God's temple and avoid markings associated with idolatry or rebellion against God's design.