Tattooed

I’m amazed at the number of people today, particularly women, who have tattoos. Personally I don’t think they make much sense. What enamors you today may not five or ten years from now. But to each his own, I guess.

The September 7, 2008, issue of the National Catholic Register asks an interesting question about tattoos: Are they moral? Does one deface the temple of the Holy Spirit when they add any tattoo, or does it depend on what tattoo is chosen? Is the morality of tattoos gender-specific?

One gentleman who regrets getting a tattoo is quoted in the article, Tattoo Taboos, comparing a tattoo to “putting graffiti on a work of art.” On the other hand another gentleman views his tattoos as an evangelizing ice-breaker. He has nearly 20 tattoos on his right forearm, including “Jesus wearing a crown of thorns, a pair of hands praying with a rosary, the angel of death, Our Lady of Guadalupe, and a vine.” Men have always worn tattoos, so any increase in their numbers is not as noticeable. The difference today is that the practice of “body art” has become fashionable, resulting in a staggering number of tattooed young women. (I confess: Although I may not like tattoos on a man, I find it especially distasteful on a woman. The female body is God’s most beautiful creation and adding artwork mars its beauty.)

Perhaps the gentleman with the 20 tattoos on his arm is correct and religious body art encourages spiritual inquiry . . . but I doubt it. One of the photos posted alongside the NCR article is of a young man with tattoos on both of his legs. On the calf of his left leg is the Virgin Mary, while on the right calf is St. Joseph holding the baby Jesus. More than honoring God or encouraging theological discussion, this “artistry” serves to draw attention to the wearer . . . which I believe is ultimately the goal of someone who gets a tattoo. And if that’s the case then a tattoo-wearer may not only be guilty of marring the body, but of surrendering to Pride as well.

The jury may still be out as to the morality of tattoos, but do yourself a favor regardless: If you want a visible expression of your faith, wear a cross or carry around a pair of rosary beads.


Donald Tremblay