In today’s world, tattoos are seen as trendy, artistic, or even a way to “express yourself.” But God’s Word gives us a very different perspective. What many believers don’t realize is that tattoos are not just harmless ink on skin — they are rooted in paganism, open spiritual doors for the enemy, and directly violate the holiness God calls His children to walk in.
God’s Command Against Tattoos
The Bible is not vague on this issue. It says plainly:
“Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.” (Leviticus 19:28 KJV)
Notice two things here: the command is absolute, and God seals it with His own Name — “I am the LORD.” This was not a suggestion, nor a cultural fad of the day, but a clear command from the God of Israel.
Historical Context: Why God Forbade It
Some try to dismiss this verse as “Old Testament law for Israel only.” But look at why God gave this command. The Canaanites and surrounding pagan nations used tattoos and body markings as part of witchcraft, idolatry, and rituals for the dead. Their bodies became canvases for dedicating themselves to false gods.
God was calling His people to be separate and holy. Tattoos weren’t simply about artwork — they were spiritual branding, a way of marking ownership to demons and idols. And God’s people were not to defile themselves by taking on the practices of those who hated Him.
That same principle holds today. God still calls His children to “be ye holy; for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:16).
Why It Still Matters for Christians
Some argue that since we are under the New Covenant, Old Testament commands like this no longer matter. But Jesus Himself said:
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” (Matthew 5:17 KJV)
The moral principles of holiness have never changed. We are not saved by keeping laws, but our obedience shows that we belong to Him. Tattoos were — and still are — linked with paganism, rebellion, and spiritual bondage. When we allow these things, we are opening ourselves to demonic influence.
Tattoos as Spiritual Doorways
Beyond the physical harm of ink circulating through your lymphatic system and damaging your health, tattoos carry deep spiritual consequences. When you mark your body — the temple of the Holy Ghost (1 Corinthians 6:19) — with images that are often rooted in witchcraft, occult symbolism, or personal vanity, you are essentially putting up a welcome sign for spiritual oppression.
I know this first-hand. I once had a tattoo in the shape of a dragon “S.” God revealed through my aunt — who had never seen it — that it represented Satan and was a spiritual doorway in my life. Deep down, I already knew it was wrong, but had hidden it out of shame. The enemy used that tattoo as a foothold until God exposed it and called me to renounce it.
Friend, tattoos are not harmless. They are an entry point for demonic oppression. And if you’ve ever wondered why certain strongholds, fear, depression, or spiritual heaviness cling to your life, it may very well be connected to markings on your body.
Deception in the Church
Tragically, many modern churches have watered this truth down. They twist God’s Word, saying “it’s just cultural” or “God only cares about the heart.” This is the same deception the serpent used in the garden: “Yea, hath God said?” (Genesis 3:1).
Yes, God cares about the heart — and a heart submitted to Him will not rebel against His clear commands.
Hope and Deliverance
If you already have tattoos, this is not the end of the story. God is merciful and powerful to forgive and deliver. What matters now is repentance — turning away from this practice completely. Renounce the agreement you made with the enemy through those markings. Pray over them, break any spiritual ties, and if you are able, consider removing them as a testimony of God’s cleansing power.
Do not take God’s mercy as permission to keep sinning. Scripture is clear: “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid” (Romans 6:1–2, KJV). True repentance means no longer defiling your body, but yielding yourself fully to Christ.
Remember:
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9 KJV)
Christ has already paid the price for your freedom. Don’t let the enemy keep you bound by what’s on your skin. Walk in the purity and holiness God has called you to.
https://www.yeshuachristislife.com/post/tattoos-a-doorway-for-the-enemy