Tattoos

i’m an orthodox jew. i want an inner lip tattoo, and i know those often fade or disappear completely. is it ok to get one?

Shalom!

Thank you for your question!

It is forbidden according to Halacha.

First of all, let us begin by defining what exactly a tattoo is. According to Jewish law a tattoo is a scratch in the skin that is filled with ink. YD 180:1-3. Another qualification for a tattoo is that it be permanent (See for example Rashi to: Leviticus 19:28) while some authorities even rule that a "long term" tattoo would a Biblical violation.

If one of these two actions is not done, it is not a true tattoo, though doing even one of these actions might be forbidden for other reasons. For example, some argue that it is forbidden to write on one’s body with permanent ink even if one does not make scratches. (Minchat Chinuch 253) Others are stingent.

Based on the above, temporary tattoos, such as henna designs, which are drawn on the skin and do not last more than a few weeks would be permitted. So too, if need be, one is permitted to write down a phone number or other piece of information on one’s skin if one does not have paper. Though, as mentioned, even "long term" markings should be avoided. (Pitchei Teshuva, YD 180)

One must bear in mind that tattoos explicitly forbidden by the Torah. In fact, it might just be one of the more severe prohibitions of the Torah, as the Torah calls it an “abomination,” a term not used frequently or lightly. As such, even temporary tattoos that are expected to fade are forbidden, as well.

There are a number of interpretations as to why tattoos are forbidden. The most common explanation is that tattooing in ancient times was closely related to idolatry and idolatrous religions. It was a means of demonstrating affiliation with a specific type of idolatry. In fact, the Mishna seems to suggest this interpretation when it explicitly writes against tattoos with G-d’s name, as the most severe tattoo transgression. Indeed, even nowadays, tattoos have religious themes. No matter how well-meaning a person might be, all tattoos are forbidden without exception. There is no such thing as violating a prohibition of the Torah for “well-meaning” purposes.

There may not be any other area mitzva/prohibition that so clearly demonstrates that nothing in this world belongs to us – not even our bodies. Our bodies are holy gifts from G-d with no need for decoration or enhancement.

Even when certain markings on the skin may be technically permitted, one must also bear in mind the prohibition against imitating the ways of Gentiles. Just as we may not dress like non-Jews, or style our hair like non-Jews, we should also not make temporary tattoos which is something clearly associated with non-Jews. It is not characteristic for Jews to “decorate” their bodies. Our bodies are holy and are not intended to be used as a canvas for artwork. The body houses the soul during our lifetime and returns to the earth it came from upon our passing.