Tattooing
Latter-day prophets strongly discourage the tattooing of the body. Those who disregard this counsel show a lack of respect for themselves and for God. The Apostle Paul taught of the significance of our bodies and the danger of purposefully defiling them: "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are" (1 Corinthians 3:16–17).
Additional Information
Those who have a tattoo wear a constant reminder of a mistake they have made. They might consider having it removed.
See also Body Piercing
—See True to the Faith (2004), 167
Church Magazine Articles
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"More Than Skin Deep"
Janet Thomas, New Era, Feb. 2001, 44–48
Many fads are fairly harmless. But this one leaves people marked—or mutilated—for life.
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"A Prophet's Counsel and Prayer for Youth"
Gordon B. Hinckley, Liahona, Apr. 2001, 30–41; or Ensign, Jan. 2001, 2–11
Did you ever think that your body is holy? You are a child of God. Your body is His creation. Would you disfigure that creation with portrayals of people, animals, and words painted into your skin?
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"Great Shall Be the Peace of Thy Children"
Gordon B. Hinckley, Liahona, Jan. 2001, 61–62, 67–68; or Ensign, Nov. 2000, 50–53
Teach [your children] that their bodies are the creation of the Almighty.
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"I Have a Question"
David A. Burton, Ensign, Feb. 1999, 52–53
Is there anything wrong with getting a tattoo or body piercing?
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"Q&A: Questions and Answers"
New Era, June 1996, 16–18
I have been thinking about getting a tattoo. Is there anything wrong with having a tattoo?
Additional Online Materials
