Body-piercing and tattooing are steadily increasing in popularity among teens and adults alike. Vast numbers now have them. These practices are viewed as modes of “self-expression” and “individuality,” with many pushing the envelope in regard to standards of decency and propriety. Those who have become role models of every kind throughout society today seem to be almost covered in every kind of bizarre, perverse, sexually suggestive, and even outright satanic tattoo that a “creative” mind (at a tattoo parlor) cut off from God could dream up.

While almost no one considers what God says about this matter, most do not even realize that His Word does address the subject. Notice what He inspired Moses to write in Leviticus 19:28: “You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print [NKJV: tattoo] any marks upon you: I am the Lord.” This is a clear command not to tattoo one’s body!

God also inspired King David to write, “I will praise You; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are Your works; and that my soul knows right well” (Psa. 139:14).

Also notice what the apostle Paul wrote in the New Testament: “What? know you not that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit which is in you, which you have of God, and you are not your own? For you are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s” (I Cor. 6:19-20). God’s Word tells us how we are to worship Him, including what it means to “glorify God in your body…” It also has much to say about avoiding the practices and customs used by those who worship other gods. Now notice Revelation 18:4: “And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, My people, that you be not partakers of her sins, and that you receive not of her plagues.”

So many people today ignore God’s Word. Most of your acquaintances in school don’t even know that the Bible emphatically and clearly says that tattoos are wrong. As one striving to obey God, you must be certain you turn to God’s Word to find the answers to any question you may have—and always avoid worldly trends.