Definition. The Biblical Meaning of Tattoo refers to permanent markings obtained by making incisions in the skin to create artistic scars. We see that this was a common practice of some ancient peoples, as well as today. However, the Bible does not have a very good interpretation of this artistic manifestation, since the Israelites prohibited it.
In ancient times it was a very common practice, for example, there was a time when the Egyptians tattooed the symbols of their gods. Although, in the Bible we find passages that mention this subject, but it does not refer entirely to tattoos, but to skin markings. In Leviticus 19:28, it says: ‘Do not rub your body for the dead, and do not leave stumbling blocks on it.’
In this chapter of Leviticus 19, Jesus called the people of Israel to live a venerable life: ‘Be holy, for I, your God, am holy.’ Once this call to the Israelites was fulfilled, Jesus Christ reminded them that it was necessary to follow a set of laws. This with the purpose so that people could live according to the will of God, like other regions.
Thus, we see the Israelites’ respect for Yahuwah’s laws not to mutilate their bodies distinguishes them from other nations. In contrast, we see that in Deuteronomy it says that ‘the respect given to the human body must also be used to honor it’. ‘As a result, by the mercy of Jesus Christ we have to present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, for his service.’
Tattoo and the Bible
The New Testament is silent on whether a believer in Jesus Christ can get a tattoo. So we cannot say that tattooing is a sin, even so, therefore biblical silence, tattoos are classified as a ‘gray area’. So believers should stick to their consideration on this issue, respecting those who may have different beliefs.
The reason for the ban on tattoos is not mentioned in this passage, but it is possible that tattooing was a pagan practice. Idolaters may have branded their skin with the name of a false deity or a symbol honoring an idol. So in the Bible we see that God requires his children to be different.
In verse 28 reference is made to some practices of pagan peoples. Among them, inflicting wounds on the body as a symbol of mourning is mentioned. It is a way of worshiping the dead.