Tattoos Not a Sin if They Glorify God – Pastor Abel Damina
Old Testament vs. New Testament Views on Tattoos
Pastor Abel Damina, founder of Power City International Ministry, has stated that tattoos are not inherently sinful, provided the inscription honours God.
Speaking on the 234 Mzansi Podcast, co-hosted by actor Chinedu Ani Emmanuel (popularly known as Nedu Wazobia), Damina explained that while tattoos were forbidden under Old Testament law, those laws no longer apply under the New Testament.
“In the Old Testament, tattoos were prohibited because they say you shouldn’t draw marks on your body. But in the New Testament, Jesus has abolished that law,” Damina said.
Why Tattoos Were Forbidden in the Old Testament
In the Old Testament, particularly in the Book of Leviticus, markings on the body were discouraged as part of religious and cultural practices at the time. Many Christians have historically used this scripture to argue against tattoos.
However, Pastor Damina clarified that these laws were tied to the Mosaic covenant and are not binding on Christians today.
The New Testament Perspective
According to Damina, under the grace of the New Testament, Christians are no longer bound by the ceremonial laws of the Old Testament.
“If you want to have a tattoo, God is not against it. It’s your body. But make sure what you are putting there honours God and has meaning,” he added.
Message to Christians Considering Tattoos
The clergyman emphasized that while tattoos are permissible, the content should be God-glorifying and purposeful—rather than meaningless or offensive.
His comments have sparked discussions among Christians about personal freedom, faith expression, and the evolving cultural perception of tattoos in the church.
