Tattoos: What the Church Really Teaches and the Demonic Connection

 

Many believe that the Catholic Church has never spoken against tattoos. However, Scripture is clear on the matter:

"Do not tattoo yourselves or put marks upon you, for I am the Lord." (Leviticus 19:28)

This command was given to the Israelites to distinguish them from the pagan nations, where tattooing was often associated with idolatry, slavery, or demonic rituals. While some argue that this was an Old Testament law that no longer applies, the principle behind it—honoring the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit—remains fundamental in Christian teaching.

The Moral Argument: Why Tattooing Is Considered Sinful

Fr. Chad Ripperger, a well-known exorcist and theologian, explains that tattooing is inherently immoral because it violates natural law—the duty to preserve our bodies as God created them. Historically, the Church viewed tattooing as a form of mutilation, which is condemned under the Fifth Commandment (“Thou shalt not kill”). While this commandment primarily forbids murder, it also extends to self-harm, unnecessary bodily modifications, and anything that degrades the integrity of the human body.

Christian Tattoos: A Greater Offense?

Some argue that religious tattoos—such as crosses, verses, or images of saints—are acceptable. However, these are actually worse in some respects. They take something sacred and imprint it onto the body through an act that is, at its core, sinful. The irony is that many people seek Christian tattoos as a form of devotion, yet the act itself contradicts the very principles of honoring God’s design.

💀 The Demonic Connection: Why Exorcists Warn Against Tattoos

Exorcists have reported an unsettling trend—many people experiencing spiritual oppression, demonic attachments, or unexplained disturbances have occult symbols, pagan deities, or even seemingly harmless tattoos on their bodies.

Why does this happen? Because in many cases, the act of tattooing involves:
✔️ Ritualistic Elements – Some tattoo artists invoke spirits, unknowingly or intentionally.
✔️ Bloodletting – The process involves shedding blood, which historically has been used in covenants, including satanic ones.
✔️ Permanence – Unlike clothing or jewelry, tattoos cannot be easily removed, serving as a lasting mark on the body.

Fr. Ripperger and other exorcists warn that demonic influence can enter subtly, and one way is through voluntary bodily marks that open spiritual doors. This is especially true when the tattoos depict skulls, serpents, dragons, or any symbol associated with death and the occult.

What Should a Christian Do?

If you already have tattoos, this doesn’t mean you are automatically condemned. However, if your tattoos include pagan, occult, or demonic imagery, you should strongly consider renouncing any spiritual ties and possibly seeking deliverance prayers.

For those considering getting a tattoo—stop and reflect. Ask yourself:
❓ Does this honor my body as a temple of the Holy Spirit?
❓ Would I be comfortable explaining this decision to Christ Himself?
❓ Am I doing this out of vanity, rebellion, or societal pressure?

Ultimately, the safest path is to honor God’s original design and avoid anything that could bring spiritual harm.

What are your thoughts on this topic? Have you ever considered the spiritual consequences of tattoos?

#tattoos #church