Tattoos have exploded in popularity across all cultures, ages, and professions—even among devout Catholics. But many faithful still ask:
“Is it a sin to get a tattoo?”
“What does the Catholic Church teach about tattoos?”
While the Church does not issue an explicit ban on tattoos, it does offer timeless moral guidance that helps us discern what honours God and what does not. Let’s unpack the topic with clarity, Scripture, and Church teaching.
Table of Contents
Does the Bible Forbid Tattoos?
One of the most cited verses in discussions about tattoos is:
“Do not tattoo yourselves. I am the Lord.” — Leviticus 19:28
At first glance, this seems straightforward. But like many Old Testament ceremonial laws, this instruction was part of the Mosaic Law given specifically to the Israelites to distinguish them from surrounding pagan nations.
The Church teaches that Christ fulfilled the ceremonial aspects of the Old Law (see CCC 1963–1965), meaning not all Old Testament prohibitions apply in the same way today. Christians are no longer bound by dietary, purity, or ritual laws, though moral truths remain.
The Levitical ban on tattoos likely addressed pagan mourning practices and idol worship, not decorative or meaningful body art as we see today.
What Does the Church Actually Teach About Tattoos?
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) does not explicitly mention tattoos, but it provides principles to help us discern:
1. The Body is a Temple
“The human body shares in the dignity of ‘the image of God’.” — CCC 364
Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (see 1 Corinthians 6:19–20). This means we should treat them with respect, modesty, and honour, avoiding mutilation or anything that degrades human dignity.
So, a tattoo that is offensive, obscene, violent, or anti-Christian would clearly be incompatible with Church teaching.
2. Intentions Matter
Morality is never just about the act—but why and how it is done. A tattoo expressing vanity, rebellion, or peer pressure is spiritually questionable.
However, if the motive is personal devotion, remembrance of a loved one, or a meaningful symbol of faith, it may be morally permissible.
3. Avoid Scandal
“Take care that this liberty of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak.” — 1 Corinthians 8:9
Even if something isn’t sinful in itself, Catholics should avoid leading others into confusion or scandal. If a tattoo might cause another to question your faith or the Church’s integrity, it might be better left undone—or carefully explained.
4. Don’t Idolise the Body
In today’s culture, the body is often idolised through excessive focus on appearance. If getting a tattoo becomes part of this obsession, it might reflect disordered values.
Examples of Faith-Inspired Tattoos
Some Catholics choose tattoos to express their faith, such as:
- A small Crucifix or Chi Rho symbol
- Scripture verses (e.g. Psalm 23, Romans 8:28)
- The name of a patron saint or Marian symbol (like the Miraculous Medal)
- A rosary, Sacred Heart, or Divine Mercy image
These tattoos can serve as personal reminders of faith, evangelistic tools, or expressions of Catholic identity, provided they’re done reverently and tastefully.
❝ Some Coptic and Ethiopian Christians have even worn tattoos for centuries as visible signs of their Christian faith and heritage. ❞
When Tattoos Become a Problem
While tattoos can be morally neutral, they cross the line when they:
- Depict blasphemous or satanic imagery
- Promote violence, hatred, or impurity
- Reflect obsessive body modification or mutilation
- Interfere with your vocation or state in life
- Are done for reasons rooted in vanity or defiance
Spiritual Warnings: Tattoos and Occult Influence
While many tattoos are merely decorative or devotional, Catholics should be aware of spiritual risks that some clergy and exorcists have observed in recent years.
Tattoos as Occult Gateways?
Msgr. Stephen Rossetti, a well-known Catholic exorcist and founder of the St. Michael Center for Spiritual Renewal, has reported instances where tattoos acted as spiritual portals. In certain cases of demonic oppression or attachment, the afflicted individuals had tattoos that were traced back to:
- Tattoo parlours where ink had been cursed
- Symbols that, unbeknownst to the person, had occult or satanic meanings
- Spiritual effects that manifested after receiving the tattoo
Msgr. Rossetti warns that while not every tattoo leads to spiritual harm, those done in spiritually dark environments or with questionable imagery can open the door to demonic influence. You can learn more in his video here:
🔗 Watch: Tattoos & the Demonic – Msgr. Rossetti on YouTube
Fr. John Zuhlsdorf’s Warning
Similarly, Fr. John Zuhlsdorf, a respected Catholic priest and blogger, has highlighted cases where tattoo artists with ties to satanic practices allegedly curse the ink used in their work. This could result in lasting spiritual consequences for unsuspecting individuals, even when the tattoo appears innocent.
How to Respond Spiritually
Recognising the seriousness of this concern, some Catholic ministries—including the Catholic Warriors of Faith—have proposed prayers to “decommission” tattoos that may carry occult influence. These prayers aim to:
- Break any demonic attachment linked to cursed ink
- Renounce and reject any spiritual harm caused unknowingly
- Consecrate the body back to Christ, redeeming it through prayer
If you’ve received a tattoo and now feel uneasy about its spiritual implications, it’s wise to:
- Bring it to prayer before the Lord
- Seek counsel from a knowledgeable Catholic priest
- Consider a deliverance prayer or blessing to safeguard your soul
- Reflect on whether the design aligns with the truth, beauty, and goodness of the Catholic faith
A Final Word on Discernment
Not all tattoos are dangerous. But Catholics are called to be vigilant and discerning, especially when dealing with symbols and practices that may have spiritual roots outside the Church. As St. Paul reminds us:
“Test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:21–22
If you’re uncertain about a tattoo’s meaning, origin, or impact, don’t act on impulse. Seek peace through prayer and, if needed, sacramental grace through Confession or spiritual direction.
🕊️ Are you a Catholic with tattoos? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
READ MORE: FAITH SECTION
