Popular Bible verse tattoos include Joshua 1:9, Isaiah 40:31, Jeremiah 29:11, Philippians 4:13, Psalm 46:10, Romans 8:28, Psalm 23:1, and Isaiah 49:16. The one verse that mentions marks on the body, Leviticus 19:28, is part of Israel's law about pagan mourning rites; Christians disagree on how it applies today.
A verse you carry on your skin should be one you know well, quoted accurately, and understood in context. Below are popular choices with exact KJV wording, plus the verse most people ask about first.
What the Bible says about tattoos
1. Leviticus 19:28
"Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD."
The only verse that directly mentions marking the body. It sits among laws separating Israel from surrounding pagan practices, especially cutting for the dead. Christians differ on whether it applies to modern tattoos; many see it as part of the ceremonial law, others urge caution. Consider talking it through with your pastor.
2. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
"What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's."
God says He has engraved His people on His palms, a picture of permanent remembrance.
Short verses that fit well
3. Psalms 23:1
"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want."
Originally spoken to exiles in Babylon, promising a future and a hope after 70 years.
4. Psalms 46:10
"Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth."
A courage verse with a promise: God is with you wherever you go.
5. Philippians 4:13
"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
Popular, but read it in context (Philippians 4:11-13): it is about contentment in every circumstance.
Verses of courage and hope
6. Joshua 1:9
"Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest."
Not about tattoos directly, but often cited in the discussion: the body belongs to God and should glorify Him.
7. Isaiah 40:31
"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."
Six words in the KJV, a favorite for small placements.
8. Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end."
Short and well known. "Be still, and know that I am God" is often shortened to "Be still."
9. Romans 8:28
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."
Often paired with eagle or wing designs.
10. Isaiah 49:16
"Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me."
Note the wording: all things "work together for good" for those who love God.
A short prayer
Lord, whatever I put on my body, let my life be the clearest picture of Your word. Help me choose wisely, honor You with my body, and live out the verse I love most. In Jesus' name, amen.
Go deeper: a SOAP study prompt
Pick one verse above and write: - Scripture: copy the verse by hand. - Observation: what does it say? Who is speaking, to whom? - Application: what does it mean for you today? - Prayer: turn it into a two-line prayer.
New to this method? See our Bible study guide or pick a Bible reading plan.
[Download our free SOAP study page | Get the 30-page SOAP Bible Study Journal]
Frequently asked questions
Does the Bible say not to get tattoos?
Leviticus 19:28 says "nor print any marks upon you." It appears in the Law of Moses in the context of pagan mourning practices. Christians disagree on whether it forbids tattoos today; it is a matter of conscience many discuss with their church.
What is a good short Bible verse for a tattoo?
Psalm 23:1, Psalm 46:10 ("Be still"), Philippians 4:13, and Joshua 1:9 are common short choices.
Should I use KJV or a modern translation for a tattoo?
Either works. KJV and WEB are public domain. Whichever you pick, copy the wording exactly and double-check the reference before the appointment.
Sources: All Scripture quotations are from the King James Version (KJV), public domain in the United States. References were checked against the KJV text from bible-api.com.
Related: Bible verses about strength · Bible verses about faith · fearfully and wonderfully made
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