What Does the Bible Say about Tattoos?

Old Testament
Some people see this verse as clear evidence that it is wrong to get a tattoo:

You shall not make any gashes in your flesh for the dead or tattoo any marks upon you: I am the Lord. (NRSV, Leviticus 19:28)

However, there are problems with that interpretation. Leviticus 19:25-31 contains a series of laws that prohibit various pagan worship practices. The Israelites were constantly tempted to lapse into the pagan practices of other ancient peoples ( Exodus 32:1-6, Numbers 25:1-3, etc.), so they were forbidden to do anything that had even the appearance of a pagan ritual.

Cutting and marking the flesh were common pagan rites for mourning the dead. So, in context, it was probably not the mark on the skin itself that was offensive, but rather the strong association with pagan worship. Such an association would not likely be made in today's world.

New Testament
Another verse cited against tattoos was written by the apostle Paul:

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you were bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body. (NRSV, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

However, in context, it is clear that 1 Corinthians 6:13-20 is about sexual immorality, not about tattoos.

Conclusion
The Bible verses can be interpreted different ways, but it is not clear that getting a tattoo would violate any Bible teaching, provided it is not done as a pagan ritual.

However, unlike hair styles, makeup, and even piercings, tattoos are permanent. Tattoo removal is expensive, not always completely effective, and can leave scars. Many people regret getting a tattoo after a few years. Therefore, it justifies considerable prayer and consideration before making the decision to get a tattoo. Questions to consider include: Do I really want a tattoo, or is it just because a friend got one? Is the tattoo I propose to get consistent with my faith and values? How will the tattoo affect my relationship with others, particularly a potential spouse. Am I sure I will still be proud of the tattoo when I am married and have children of my own? Will the tattoo interfere with getting a job I may want in the future?