tattoos pose a complex dilemma for Christians. Though this decision should ultimately be left up to each Christian, certain key aspects should be kept in mind before getting inked with an image such as an ink tattoo:
Why? Are tattoos Sinful to Christians?
Many Christians view tattooing as forbidden by God because of an Old Testament verse which they interpret to prohibit it. Leviticus 19:28 prohibits Israelites from cutting or marking their skin with tattoos or cutting tools. Some Bible scholars believe this prohibition was designed to separate Israel from Canaanite’s pagan practices, particularly their mourning rituals after family members died. Whoever advocates this interpretation assumes that the verse only prohibits specific forms of self-mutilation during mourning ceremonies and has nothing to do with modern body art practices. Other scholars believe the prohibition was related to scarification procedures, which involved branding or cutting skin for purposes of scarification. Such ancient methods were thought to bring out gods’ compassion while showing reverence towards them.
Symbolism
Symbolism is a literary device that adds depth and complexity to a work, allowing readers to interpret it differently than its literal interpretation. It often serves as a device for conveying depth to readers who may interpret different results differently. Symbolism was initially a literary movement in poetry and other arts that attempted to represent truth through language and symbolic images in reaction against naturalism or realism, which often tried to depict reality as it appeared to its members.
Origins
Humans have long used tattoos as a form of personal expression to mark status symbols or declare love, signal religious beliefs, or serve as punishment. Charles Darwin believed that no country practiced without some form of tattooing practiced, with contemporary scholars exploring its roots and essence. Tattooed skin has been discovered on various mummies from various civilizations, such as China and Egypt. Otzi is thought to be the first known example of this practice at 5,200 years old!
Safety
While tattoos offer an outlet to express oneself creatively, they also pose serious health risks that must be considered when considering this expression. Safety should always be top of mind when getting a tattoo, mainly since inks used don’t fall under FDA regulations like drugs, food, or cosmetics. Needles and disposable gloves used during therapy sessions must be sterile. Skin can be highly vulnerable to dirt particles; any misplacement could result in infection if not wrapped tightly in plastic and appropriately discarded after each session. To safeguard against this possibility, always cover these items in plastic before throwing them away after every session.
