Tattoos Are Not Sinful, Says Pastor Damina—Critics Call It Heresy
Nigerian pastor Abel Damina has stirred public debate after declaring that tattoos are not sinful if they glorify God.
The founder of Power City International Ministry made the statement during an interview on the 234 Mzansi Podcast, hosted by Nigerian media personality Chinedu Ani Emmanuel, also known as Nedu Wazobia.
Damina explained that biblical prohibitions against tattoos originate from Old Testament laws, which he believes no longer apply under the New Covenant.
According to him, Jesus Christ abolished those laws, granting Christians freedom in matters of personal expression.
“In the Old Testament, tattoos were prohibited because they say you should not draw marks on your body. But in the New Testament, Jesus has abolished that law.
“So, if you want to have a tattoo, God is not against it. It is your body. But make sure what you are putting there honours God and has meaning,” Damina said.
His remarks, reported by Daily Post Nigeria, have sparked widespread reactions online. While some individuals supported his interpretation, others strongly disagreed, accusing him of misrepresenting scripture.
@Tanlaka Valentine, criticised the pastor’s stance, writing, “So-called pastor is misleading others in the name of preaching. To hell with Damina and his preaching.”
Another user, @Charlesonyegbulachinedu, challenged the theological basis of Damina’s claim, stating, “Tell me the scripture in the New Testament where Jesus encouraged tattoo. You cannot tattoo to God’s glory even if you tattoo the name of Jesus on your body. Abel, you are really fulfilling end time scriptures.”
Additional coverage by Gistlover echoed Damina’s position, noting that he emphasised spiritual intent behind body art.
Meanwhile, Christianity Path provided broader biblical context, referencing verses such as 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 and Romans 12:1, which urge believers to honour God with their bodies.
The controversy has reignited long-standing debates within Christian circles regarding body modification, personal liberty, and the interpretation of scripture in contemporary faith practice.
