Body+Alterations

Different religions have different feelings about body alterations. Some find it acceptable to have tattoos and piercings, some don't. Some religions consider body alterations a sin and others see it as a way of expressing their religion and beliefs. It all depends on the religion and how strongly you feel about it.

FINE PRINT: DIVERSITY AND NUANCE. Are there different rules for different people/sects within **Judaism** regarding your ethical issue? What about differences in the way consequences are applied?

It doesnt matter how high you are in the religious society, they still find body alterations bad and the sign of the devil. Tattoos are strictly prohibited in judaism, along with piercings. They think of it as a sign of the devil and going against what God says. A scripture they follow clearly states no cuts in the skin or marking to the skin shall be made upon your own body. Jews follow this very closely.

BIG PICTURE: MAIN RULES AND CONSEQUENCES. Describe the main teachings of **Christianity** pertinent to your issue. What are the consequences (legal, social, spiritual) when the teachings are not followed? In other words, I'm asking you to investigate whether your ethical issue is considered a public matter, with public, legal, and social consequences, or is it considered a spiritual or personal matter, with more private consequences affecting personal relationships and spiritual matters.

Most true Christians are against tattoos but not so much piercings. They, like Jews, do not approve of making marks on the body. They consider the body to be that of God's and you should not alter it without permission from God himself. Christians are lenient when it comes to some piercings. They are usually alright with ear piercings for women only. This all depends on what Christian you are talking to though. Some Christians see tattoos as a way to show your faith towards God. They often get religious tattoos like a cross or angel. Some Christians do not care at all what you get on your body as far as piercings and tattoos are concerned. Only Christians who follow extremely close to the bible do not approve of body alterations.

FINE PRINT: DIVERSITY AND NUANCE. Are there different rules for different people/sects within **Christianity** regarding your ethical issue? What about differences in the way consequences are applied? **This week, concentrate on the similarities and differences between Catholics and Protestants on your topic.**

Catholics do not teach that it is bad to alter the body. Although some Catholics are against it. They consider it against the Sacred Scripture. This states that nobody should make marking on the skin or tattoo the body. It is thought to be a sign of the devil and against traditional Christian teachings.