| The Catholic Church's stance on tattooing? |
Question:
What is the Catholic Church's stand on tattoos? I was thinking of
getting my first tattoo soon. It would be something with a cross and
some tribal/Celtic overtones. I would maybe put some Latin phrases or
Greek letters with it (any suggestions). I know what the Bible states
in Leviticus but is that not technically 'Jewish' Law?
The reason for my tattoo is because I am going to be baptized into
the Holy Roman Catholic Church next year and I wanted something to
commemorate this very special occasion. What better way to remember
it than with a life-long symbol of my new found faith?
Answer:
-This really isn't a doctrinal statement, but here it is:
http://www.oca.org/pages/orth_chri/Q-and-A_OLD/Piercing-and-Tatoos.html
There may be other opinions on the mattter but I didn't find anything
else quoteable, online or otherwise.
-I don't think there's any specific prohibition against it. However, there
is the general commandment not to mutiliate the body. Also, there is the
prescription to keep others from stumbling in faith.
To me, it's like getting your ears pierced. I don't think one tatoo is
harmful, but if you tatooed half your body, then that might be something to
consider.
-Interesting question. I'm not aware of any pronouncements by the Church
either for or against tattoos (but you never know, I might have missed
that). The Church does state that no one should do anything that may be
detrimental to their health i.e taking drugs, etc. I would think that as
long as you use a reputable tattoo artist, with no reused equipment that
would expose you to HIV or Hepatitis there should be no problem.
|
|
| |
 |