Hebrew Apologetics of the Week: Tattoos and Sin

Introduction

• Discussing whether getting a tattoo is a sin
• Referenced Bible, specifically Leviticus 19:28
• Question: Is getting a tattoo against Torah?
• Explored guilt associated with having tattoos

Biblical Context

Key Verse

• Leviticus 19:28: "You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves. I am Yah."
  • On the surface, it suggests that tattoos are forbidden

Contextual Analysis

• Importance of contextualization: understanding the surrounding context of the scripture
• Reference to Leviticus 19:27 about not rounding the corners of heads or marring the corners of beards
  • Associated with pagan mourning practices
• Context of Israel surrounded by pagan cultures
  • Pagans marked their bodies for the dead as a form of mourning

Misinterpretation and Fallacies

• Issue with isolating verses and building theology around them without context
• English-only fallacy and overload fallacy: interpreting scripture without understanding original language context
• Importance of critical thinking in scriptural interpretation

Cultural Practices

Pagan Mourning Rituals

• Pagans shaved heads and marked bodies to mourn the dead
• Similar practices seen in different cultures, including Chaldeans

Historical Context

• Mention of pagan gods such as Molech and the associated practices like child sacrifice
• Reference to biblical figures like King Solomon interacting with pagan practices

Related Scriptural References

• Isaiah 15:2
• Jeremiah 47:4
• Jeremiah 48:37-38

Theological Implications

Tattoos as a Cultural Symbol

• Tattoos signified rebellion against the Most High
• Not explicitly a sin unless done for mourning the dead

Health Implications

• Tattoos potentially affect lymphatic and circulatory systems
• Caution advised due to potential unknowns in tattoo ink (similar caution as vaccines)

Conclusion

• If tattoos are not for mourning the dead, not explicitly a sin according to Torah
• However, it may not be wise or beneficial, considering one's body as the temple of the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit)

Final Thoughts

• Importance of following the law, statutes, and commandments beyond just avoiding sin
• Encouragement to understand and live by the deeper messages in scripture

Closing

• Concluded the discussion on Hebrew apologetics of the week
• Emphasized continuous prayer and discernment in understanding scripture