Last updated: 2026-04-15
Is Getting a Tattoo a Sin in Judaism?
Quick Answer
Yes, getting a tattoo is considered sin in Judaism.
Author: IsItASin Editorial Team · Last updated: 2026-04-15
Yes, getting a tattoo is considered sin in Judaism. Leviticus 19:28 — 'You shall not make gashes in your flesh for the dead, or incise any marks on yourselves.' This is a sin matter in Judaism with clear guidance for believers.
What Judaism Teaches About Getting a Tattoo
Judaism considers Getting a Tattoo to be a sin — a subject of guidance in the torah / talmudic tradition.
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What Judaism Teaches About Getting a Tattoo
Traditional (Orthodox) Judaism strictly prohibits tattoos based on the Torah's explicit command in Leviticus 19:28. Conservative and Reform Judaism tend to be more lenient but still generally discourage tattoos. A persistent myth claims that Jews with tattoos cannot be buried in Jewish cemeteries — this is false. The body is still treated with full Jewish dignity regardless of tattoos.
Torah / Talmudic References
- Leviticus 19:28 — 'You shall not make gashes in your flesh for the dead, or incise any marks on yourselves.'
- Talmud Makkot 21a — Discusses the prohibition of tattooing.
Key Teachings
| Teaching | Scripture Reference | Practical Application |
|---|---|---|
| You shall not make gashes in your flesh for the dead, or incise any marks on yourselves. | Leviticus 19:28 | Apply this teaching to daily decisions. |
| Discusses the prohibition of tattooing. | Talmud Makkot 21a | Apply this teaching to daily decisions. |
What You Should Do
- Before getting a tattoo, consider your faith tradition's teaching and your personal conviction.
- Jewish: If you're observant, know that Leviticus 19:28 prohibits tattoos. If you already have tattoos, you are still fully welcome in Jewish life and burial.
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Begin Your Teshuvah — The Gates Are Open →People Also Ask
Can I go to heaven if I have tattoos?
Yes.
Yes. Having a tattoo does not determine your eternal destination in any tradition.
Can Jews with tattoos be buried in Jewish cemeteries?
Yes.
Yes. This is a widespread myth with no basis in Jewish law. Jews with tattoos are buried in Jewish cemeteries with full rites.
