Tattoos originated from Egypt. The Israelites were forbidden to engage in this practice, one that was common among some other ancient peoples. (Le 19:28)
For example, there were times when the Egyptians tattooed the names or symbols of their deities on their breast or arms.
By complying with Jehovah’s law not to disfigure their bodies, the Israelites would have stood out as different from other nations. (De 14:1, 2) The prohibition would also have impressed upon them a proper respect for the human body as God’s creation, to be used in
honoring him.—Ps 100:3; 139:13-16; Rom 12:1.
honoring him.—Ps 100:3; 139:13-16; Rom 12:1.