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1. Body Modification, tattooes, piercing, scarification etc History, origins, types of, and the Biblical answer This includes: branding, spikes, implants, amputation etcThis includes: branding, spikes, implants, amputation etc
2. The Origins of Body Modification
Body scarification, tatooing, etc. has a long history The history of various types of body modification is found all over the world wherever animism and spiritism has been the religion. From ancient China through to primitive tribes in Africa and South America there have been all manner of adjustments to the body to signify identity with a certain group and certain gods/spirits. Cosmetics have been around for thousands of years and was associated with pagan religions.The history of various types of body modification is found all over the world wherever animism and spiritism has been the religion. From ancient China through to primitive tribes in Africa and South America there have been all manner of adjustments to the body to signify identity with a certain group and certain gods/spirits. Cosmetics have been around for thousands of years and was associated with pagan religions.
3. The Origins of Body Modification
4. The Origins of Body Modification Body scarification, tattooing, etc, has a long history
These ancient heathen practices are found in all nations;
a Maori tatooed man,1860; Once outlawed, the tradition of tribal tattooing has undergone a recent renewal among the Maori people of New Zealand and other Polynesian cultures. Full facial markings, or moko, such as this Maori chief has, are the most common in New Zealand.Once outlawed, the tradition of tribal tattooing has undergone a recent renewal among the Maori people of New Zealand and other Polynesian cultures. Full facial markings, or moko, such as this Maori chief has, are the most common in New Zealand.
5. Origins of Body Modification Recent renewal of facial markings
Maori Chief
6. History of Body Modification In the Middle-east
from Iran 3500BC (note ear piercing)
7. History of Body Modification from Iraq 9th century BC - King Assur with pierced ears
8. History of Body Modification Chinese Buddha, 13th century
9. History of Body Modification Polynesian chief
10. History of Body Modification Africa scarification Facial scarification in West Africa is popular among many tribes, and is performed for several purposes. Culturally, the practice dates back thousands of years, and has been used to identify tribes (forehead), families (cheeks), individuals (chins), and even to express personal beauty (accents on lines). Although it is technically outlawed today due to notions of brutality, especially against women and children, the real cause for its demise is modernity: younger people desire to be more like Americans and other western cultures.
Mention has been made that tools/instruments used for scarification on multiple people have been a means of transmitting HIV/Aids
Facial scarification in West Africa is popular among many tribes, and is performed for several purposes. Culturally, the practice dates back thousands of years, and has been used to identify tribes (forehead), families (cheeks), individuals (chins), and even to express personal beauty (accents on lines). Although it is technically outlawed today due to notions of brutality, especially against women and children, the real cause for its demise is modernity: younger people desire to be more like Americans and other western cultures.
Mention has been made that tools/instruments used for scarification on multiple people have been a means of transmitting HIV/Aids
11. History of Body Modification African head-binding Head-binding
On the continent of Africa there are several cultures which practice artificial cranial deformation. The methods vary from tribe to tribe as do the results. The regions where this particular form of body modification were mainly in the tropical and more remote regions such as the Congo, Sudan and Angola. Mothers bind their infants skulls with a variety of materials from grass to fabric. Some cultures bind only the heads of one sex or the other, and often the head binding is combined with other practices such as tattooing, piercing, or scarification. Left to Right: - Makere Tribeswoman (Congo) - facial tattoos, multiple piercings, cranial deformation; - Mangbetu mother with child, N.E. Congo; - Belgian Congo: Mother and child with cranial deformation - child with bound head
Head-binding
On the continent of Africa there are several cultures which practice artificial cranial deformation. The methods vary from tribe to tribe as do the results. The regions where this particular form of body modification were mainly in the tropical and more remote regions such as the Congo, Sudan and Angola. Mothers bind their infants skulls with a variety of materials from grass to fabric. Some cultures bind only the heads of one sex or the other, and often the head binding is combined with other practices such as tattooing, piercing, or scarification.
12. History of Body Modification Zulu customary scarification Scars on face….
Ears repaired of past damage...Scars on face….
Ears repaired of past damage...
13. History of Body Modification Customary protection rites Some of the Ngubane tribe in KwaZulu Natal has the custom of amputating the last joint on the little finger of their baby boys. If the joint, which is chopped off over cow dung, disappears, it’s a sign that the ancestral spirits are satisfied. If the joint is found again, it spells trouble.
Each tribe has distinctive tattoo designs; the man, on the right, from Burkina Faso (West Africa) has facial markings indicating his village and his clan and include black magic symbols to keep away evil spirits
Some of the Ngubane tribe in KwaZulu Natal has the custom of amputating the last joint on the little finger of their baby boys. If the joint, which is chopped off over cow dung, disappears, it’s a sign that the ancestral spirits are satisfied. If the joint is found again, it spells trouble.
Each tribe has distinctive tattoo designs; the man, on the right, from Burkina Faso (West Africa) has facial markings indicating his village and his clan and include black magic symbols to keep away evil spirits
14. History of Body Modification Lip plate - Ethiopia A Mursi woman from the Omo Valley in southern Ethiopia is adorned with face markings and a lip plate, considered signs of beauty among the Mursi.
A Mursi woman from the Omo Valley in southern Ethiopia is adorned with face markings and a lip plate, considered signs of beauty among the Mursi.
15. History of Body Modification Alaskan man with nose ring, 19th C
16. History of Body Modification Chinese foot-binding
17. History of Body Modification Borneo woman with stretched ear lobes Borneo is in the Asian Pacific AreaBorneo is in the Asian Pacific Area
18. History of Body Modification British tattooed man from 400AD “According to scientists who discovered markings on a mummified Iceman, tattoos originated circa 3300 B.C. However, more people recognize tattoos as dating from 2000 B.C. Egyptian and Nubian mummies as well as ancient Greeks, Germans, and Gauls could be found bearing tattoos. “ Sources: http://punk.usc/-argo.com/custom2.html, ar-abia.com, www.abc-tattoos.-com, www.costumes.org
“According to scientists who discovered markings on a mummified Iceman, tattoos originated circa 3300 B.C. However, more people recognize tattoos as dating from 2000 B.C. Egyptian and Nubian mummies as well as ancient Greeks, Germans, and Gauls could be found bearing tattoos. “Sources: http://punk.usc/-argo.com/custom2.html, ar-abia.com, www.abc-tattoos.-com, www.costumes.org
19. History of Body Modification South American
20. History of Body Modification Eskimo Eskimo Tradition:
Body-modification, in-cluding getting tattoos, piercing, stretching, and scarring, has been around for millennia and has made a comeback with the mainstream culture of today with young and old. Piercing, for centuries, has been a way to define social status among many cultures. The Eskimo, for example, established social standing among groups by lip piercing up until the beginning of the 19th Century. Men and women alike used to adorn themselves with labrets, also referred to as lip-plugs. Symbolizing manhood for young men and used as an ornament for young women, the Eskimos gradually stretched the hole in their lip to accommodate a larger labret. Stretching one's earlobes is developing into a craze in cities spanning the United States. The plugs and spools inserted in these holes bear a resemblance to those worn by the Maya and people of ancient Mexico. Sources: http://punk.usc/-argo.com/custom2.html, ar-abia.com, www.abc-tattoos.-com, www.costumes.org
Eskimo Tradition:
Body-modification, in-cluding getting tattoos, piercing, stretching, and scarring, has been around for millennia and has made a comeback with the mainstream culture of today with young and old.Piercing, for centuries, has been a way to define social status among many cultures. The Eskimo, for example, established social standing among groups by lip piercing up until the beginning of the 19th Century. Men and women alike used to adorn themselves with labrets, also referred to as lip-plugs. Symbolizing manhood for young men and used as an ornament for young women, the Eskimos gradually stretched the hole in their lip to accommodate a larger labret. Stretching one's earlobes is developing into a craze in cities spanning the United States. The plugs and spools inserted in these holes bear a resemblance to those worn by the Maya and people of ancient Mexico. Sources: http://punk.usc/-argo.com/custom2.html, ar-abia.com, www.abc-tattoos.-com, www.costumes.org
21. History of Body Modification In Borneo tattooing is mostly associated with head-hunting Among the tribes in Borneo, tattooing is mainly associated with headhunting (a visible sign of success) for men and the coming of age of women - in some cases it symbolizes their social status. Tattoos are part of the "rites of passage" and next to blackened teeth and long ear-lobes, intricate tattoos on fingers, hands, lower arms, thighs, calves, and feet served as important elements of beauty for women. The darker the color, the better. Apo-Kayans - Apo Kayan means the Kayan hill country bordering Sarawak- "A young woman's social position is also indicated, among other things, by the number of rings around the calves of her legs. It appears that originally the significance of the tattooing was as a protective device." (Tillema [ca. 1924-1927] 1989) Actually, it enabled them to travel to the land of the ancestors.
Among the tribes in Borneo, tattooing is mainly associated with headhunting (a visible sign of success) for men and the coming of age of women - in some cases it symbolizes their social status. Tattoos are part of the "rites of passage" and next to blackened teeth and long ear-lobes, intricate tattoos on fingers, hands, lower arms, thighs, calves, and feet served as important elements of beauty for women. The darker the color, the better. Apo-Kayans - Apo Kayan means the Kayan hill country bordering Sarawak- "A young woman's social position is also indicated, among other things, by the number of rings around the calves of her legs. It appears that originally the significance of the tattooing was as a protective device." (Tillema [ca. 1924-1927] 1989) Actually, it enabled them to travel to the land of the ancestors.
22. History of Body Modification - Occultic connections Primitive scarification is almost always connected to religious and occultic practices. (Middle Eastern Muslims pierce their cheeks in a ritual) A pagan view on the subject: “A tattoo is a complex signifier: it signals class; it signals sexuality; and it has specific content as a signifier: a depiction of an animal, a person, an abstract tribal design. The most usual motifs are signifiers of power and masculinity, especially totem animals such a birds and beasts of prey. But what the tattoo signals above all is the power one seizes over one's own body: it signals that one is the predator of oneself and hence also one's own prey. Again, the content of the tattoo is secondary to the general content of tattoos, as the point is just to be pierced in various conspicuous ways: it doesn't matter so much specifically whether it is your eyebrow or your tongue or both. The point is simply that one has seized control of oneself: a contradictory act that renders the body a contradictory location, because it is both sadistic and masochistic, both masterful and slavish, both self-division and, potentially, a site of self-reunification. ... To understand what tattoos mean, it is absolutely crucial to keep in mind their permanence. A tattoo is a mark of resolution or bravery for that reason: one is not only transforming oneself, one is inscribing one's willingness to transform oneself once and for all, permanently. For that reason, tattoos are excellent markers of passage or initiation, and many fraternities, military units, athletic teams, motorcycle gangs, and so forth tattoo or scar their members in order to signal on their bodies the permanence and the seriousness of their commitment. To be branded or tattooed shows also that you have the requisite guts to join the group. It is not the most extreme or painful form of initiation, but it serves as a sign of pain and hence of resolution.” (Crispen Sartwell)
A pagan view on the subject: “A tattoo is a complex signifier: it signals class; it signals sexuality; and it has specific content as a signifier: a depiction of an animal, a person, an abstract tribal design. The most usual motifs are signifiers of power and masculinity, especially totem animals such a birds and beasts of prey. But what the tattoo signals above all is the power one seizes over one's own body: it signals that one is the predator of oneself and hence also one's own prey. Again, the content of the tattoo is secondary to the general content of tattoos, as the point is just to be pierced in various conspicuous ways: it doesn't matter so much specifically whether it is your eyebrow or your tongue or both. The point is simply that one has seized control of oneself: a contradictory act that renders the body a contradictory location, because it is both sadistic and masochistic, both masterful and slavish, both self-division and, potentially, a site of self-reunification. ... To understand what tattoos mean, it is absolutely crucial to keep in mind their permanence. A tattoo is a mark of resolution or bravery for that reason: one is not only transforming oneself, one is inscribing one's willingness to transform oneself once and for all, permanently. For that reason, tattoos are excellent markers of passage or initiation, and many fraternities, military units, athletic teams, motorcycle gangs, and so forth tattoo or scar their members in order to signal on their bodies the permanence and the seriousness of their commitment. To be branded or tattooed shows also that you have the requisite guts to join the group. It is not the most extreme or painful form of initiation, but it serves as a sign of pain and hence of resolution.” (Crispen Sartwell)
23. History of Body Modification - Occultic connections It is believed here that children hold several spirits inside themselves. This little girl is believed to hold the spirit of a weasel in her and this makes her extremely vulnerable for seduction
24. History of Body Modification - Occultic connections Hindus in Singapore "Tattooing is often a magical rite in the more traditional cultures, and the tattooist is respected as a priest or shaman." (Michelle Delio, Tattoo: The Exotic Art of Skin Decoration, p. 73)
"In Fiji, Fromosa, New Zealand and in certain of the North American Indian tribes, tattooing was regarded as a religious ceremony, and performed by priests or priestesses." (Ronald Scutt, Art, Sex and Symbol, 1974, p. 64)
"The actual tattooing process, which involved complex ritual and taboos, could only be done by priests and was associated with beliefs which were secrets known only to members of the priestly caste. . . Hambly concluded that historically tattooing had originated in connection with ancient rites of scarification and bloodletting which were associated with religious practices intended to put the human soul in harmony with supernatural forces and ensure continuity between this life and the next." (Gilbert, Steve, Tattoo History: A Source Book, p. 158)
"Tattooing is often a magical rite in the more traditional cultures, and the tattooist is respected as a priest or shaman."(Michelle Delio, Tattoo: The Exotic Art of Skin Decoration, p. 73)
"In Fiji, Fromosa, New Zealand and in certain of the North American Indian tribes, tattooing was regarded as a religious ceremony, and performed by priests or priestesses." (Ronald Scutt, Art, Sex and Symbol, 1974, p. 64)
"The actual tattooing process, which involved complex ritual and taboos, could only be done by priests and was associated with beliefs which were secrets known only to members of the priestly caste. . . Hambly concluded that historically tattooing had originated in connection with ancient rites of scarification and bloodletting which were associated with religious practices intended to put the human soul in harmony with supernatural forces and ensure continuity between this life and the next." (Gilbert, Steve, Tattoo History: A Source Book, p. 158)
25. History of Body Modification - Occultic connections Tattooing, among pagans, is considered a powerful tool: for at once the pigment was laid upon the skin, the indelible mark served as both protective shield and sacrifice to the supernatural.
HISTORY OF TATTOOING IN THE ARCTIC
Archaeological evidence in the form of a carved human figurine demonstrates that tattooing was practiced as early as 3500 years ago in the Arctic. Moreover, the remains of several mummies discovered in Bering Strait and Greenland indicate that tattooing was an element basic to ancient traditions. This is corroborated in mythology since the origin of tattooing is clearly associated with the creation of the sun and moon.
"Tattooing is often a magical rite in the more traditional cultures, and the tattooist is respected as a priest or shaman." (Michelle Delio, Tattoo: The Exotic Art of Skin Decoration, p. 73)
"In Fiji, Fromosa, New Zealand and in certain of the North American Indian tribes, tattooing was regard as a religious ceremony, and performed by priests or priestesses." (Ronald Scutt, Art, Sex and Symbol, 1974, p. 64)HISTORY OF TATTOOING IN THE ARCTIC
Archaeological evidence in the form of a carved human figurine demonstrates that tattooing was practiced as early as 3500 years ago in the Arctic. Moreover, the remains of several mummies discovered in Bering Strait and Greenland indicate that tattooing was an element basic to ancient traditions. This is corroborated in mythology since the origin of tattooing is clearly associated with the creation of the sun and moon.
"Tattooing is often a magical rite in the more traditional cultures, and the tattooist is respected as a priest or shaman."(Michelle Delio, Tattoo: The Exotic Art of Skin Decoration, p. 73)
"In Fiji, Fromosa, New Zealand and in certain of the North American Indian tribes, tattooing was regard as a religious ceremony, and performed by priests or priestesses." (Ronald Scutt, Art, Sex and Symbol, 1974, p. 64)
26. Various types of Scarification Tattoos
Body piercing
Mutilation Ancient origin of Tattooing and Piercing
According to scientists who discovered markings on a mummified Iceman, tattoos originated circa 3300 B.C. However, more people recognize tattoos as dating from 2000 B.C. Egyptian and Nubian mummies as well as ancient Greeks, Germans, and Gauls could be found bearing tattoos. Sources: http://punk.usc/-argo.com/custom2.html, ar-abia.com, www.abc-tattoos.-com, www.costumes.org
While the majority of ancient cultures saw piercing as an indicator of nobility, they also recognized jewelry with such significance. Even King Tut-ankhamen of ancient Egypt wore gold, turquoise, calcite, and glass. He rests in a tomb made of solid gold. Sources: http://punk.usc/-argo.com/custom2.html, ar-abia.com, www.abc-tattoos.-com, www.costumes.org
Cultures around the world both embrace and shun the tradition of tattooing. Nevertheless, people continue to get tattooed to "send important cultural messages, a commitment to some group, an emblem of a rite of passage, even a fashion statement," according to www.abc-tattoos.com.
Ancient origin of Tattooing and Piercing
According to scientists who discovered markings on a mummified Iceman, tattoos originated circa 3300 B.C. However, more people recognize tattoos as dating from 2000 B.C. Egyptian and Nubian mummies as well as ancient Greeks, Germans, and Gauls could be found bearing tattoos. Sources: http://punk.usc/-argo.com/custom2.html, ar-abia.com, www.abc-tattoos.-com, www.costumes.org
While the majority of ancient cultures saw piercing as an indicator of nobility, they also recognized jewelry with such significance. Even King Tut-ankhamen of ancient Egypt wore gold, turquoise, calcite, and glass. He rests in a tomb made of solid gold. Sources: http://punk.usc/-argo.com/custom2.html, ar-abia.com, www.abc-tattoos.-com, www.costumes.org
Cultures around the world both embrace and shun the tradition of tattooing. Nevertheless, people continue to get tattooed to "send important cultural messages, a commitment to some group, an emblem of a rite of passage, even a fashion statement," according to www.abc-tattoos.com.
27. Various types Tattoos
28. Various types Tattoos, Hindu god The religious, occultic connection to tattooing, piercing etc, cannot be overemphasized. There is even a church of body modification which shows the strong religious/idolatrous flavour of this perversion. The following are the introductory comments on their website: The Church of Body Modification is a nondenominational congregation that teaches ownership over our own bodies. The Church's purpose is for our modified society to harmoniously return to its spiritual roots that have been forgotten. We are not here to offer spirituality to you so much as we are here because of the spirituality that is already in all of us; often expressed through what we do to our bodies. The church is a place for all of us to stand together and create a stronger foundation for the future. What is already inside and outside of all of us does not deserve to be shut down or ignored. The Church of Body Modification is an interfaith church whose members practice an assortment of ancient body modification rites which we believe are essential to our spirituality. We believe that especially in these uncertain modern times, it is doubly important that we never forget these activities, and that to do so would smother a part of us that we consider to be so important: our freedom of expression. Our desire to express our spirituality on our bodies. It is our belief that by practicing body modification and by engaging in rituals of body manipulation we strengthen the bond between mind, body, and soul and ensure that we live as spiritually complete and healthy individuals.
(see: http://www.churchofbodmod.com)
The religious, occultic connection to tattooing, piercing etc, cannot be overemphasized. There is even a church of body modification which shows the strong religious/idolatrous flavour of this perversion. The following are the introductory comments on their website: The Church of Body Modification is a nondenominational congregation that teaches ownership over our own bodies. The Church's purpose is for our modified society to harmoniously return to its spiritual roots that have been forgotten. We are not here to offer spirituality to you so much as we are here because of the spirituality that is already in all of us; often expressed through what we do to our bodies. The church is a place for all of us to stand together and create a stronger foundation for the future. What is already inside and outside of all of us does not deserve to be shut down or ignored. The Church of Body Modification is an interfaith church whose members practice an assortment of ancient body modification rites which we believe are essential to our spirituality. We believe that especially in these uncertain modern times, it is doubly important that we never forget these activities, and that to do so would smother a part of us that we consider to be so important: our freedom of expression. Our desire to express our spirituality on our bodies. It is our belief that by practicing body modification and by engaging in rituals of body manipulation we strengthen the bond between mind, body, and soul and ensure that we live as spiritually complete and healthy individuals.
(see: http://www.churchofbodmod.com)
29. Various types Tattoos
30. Various types Tattoos, on leg
31. Various types Tattoos, on stomach
32. Various types Tattoo, branded by burning into skin Branding, like other types of body modification can be connected to perverted seeking of pleasure. The following was written by someone who watched a branding ritual:
Like other body-modification arts, branding causes an endorphin rush, so that the pain of branding is overlaid with a morphine-like high. After nine strikes, Raelyn asked Don how he was holding up, and he responded that he thought they were only up to strike number four. I was beginning to feel something approaching what I always thought I should feel during Holy Communion—an awe, a sense that something beyond ordinary life was happening, something profound, for which there were no previous words.
After the branding was complete and the applause had died down, the audience was allowed a closer look and stood around to discuss what they saw. Several people described the experience as "spiritual"; someone even used the word "transforming."
Branding, like other types of body modification can be connected to perverted seeking of pleasure. The following was written by someone who watched a branding ritual:
Like other body-modification arts, branding causes an endorphin rush, so that the pain of branding is overlaid with a morphine-like high. After nine strikes, Raelyn asked Don how he was holding up, and he responded that he thought they were only up to strike number four. I was beginning to feel something approaching what I always thought I should feel during Holy Communion—an awe, a sense that something beyond ordinary life was happening, something profound, for which there were no previous words.
After the branding was complete and the applause had died down, the audience was allowed a closer look and stood around to discuss what they saw. Several people described the experience as "spiritual"; someone even used the word "transforming."
33. Various Types Tribal, Oriental, Celtic Celtic, Oriental and Tribal tattoos - Note the yin-yang signCeltic, Oriental and Tribal tattoos - Note the yin-yang sign
34. Various types Branded birth chart For hundreds if not thousands of years, people have been using fire to scar designs on their skin. Whether practiced as part of a coming-of-age ritual, after a first birth or kill, brands have always been a major component of body modification.
For hundreds if not thousands of years, people have been using fire to scar designs on their skin. Whether practiced as part of a coming-of-age ritual, after a first birth or kill, brands have always been a major component of body modification.
35. Various types Body piercing, naval
36. Various types Body piercing, tongue
37. Various types Body piercing (and tattoos), tongue studs
38. Various types Nasal bridge
39. Various Types Labrets - tribal heritage Labrets
This is another piercing with a mixed tribal heritage. In the Amazon Basin it is usually performed on men, who will stretch the piercing up to accept large plates or discs. The more impressive the stretched labret the higher the social standing or the person. In other tribes, labret piercings are called Jaguar's Whiskers and long spikes are worn in them to give this impression. In Africa by contrast, some tribes perform the Labret piercing on women and the subsequent stretching of the piercing makes it very difficult for them to talk. The plates are only allowed to be removed in the company of other women who presumably won't mind listening to them chatting! In some cultures the size of a stretched piercing will set the price to be paid for the bride.
Labrets
This is another piercing with a mixed tribal heritage. In the Amazon Basin it is usually performed on men, who will stretch the piercing up to accept large plates or discs. The more impressive the stretched labret the higher the social standing or the person. In other tribes, labret piercings are called Jaguar's Whiskers and long spikes are worn in them to give this impression. In Africa by contrast, some tribes perform the Labret piercing on women and the subsequent stretching of the piercing makes it very difficult for them to talk. The plates are only allowed to be removed in the company of other women who presumably won't mind listening to them chatting! In some cultures the size of a stretched piercing will set the price to be paid for the bride.
40. Various Types Ear piercing
41. Various types Mutilation, the ultimate form of body modification an ear being adjusted
42. The painful process The process is painful
43. The painful process The problem with nose jobs for modification purposes is that the pain and problems may start later:
44. Nose jobs Observe Michael Jackson’s nose...
45. The painful process A nose job
46. Various types Mutilation and pleasure through pain Some derive perverted pleasure through pain, sado-masochism. This is often a sexual fetish and shows the nature of the devil who deceives us: “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.” People who use pain to excite themselves will use: beating, belting, birching, caning, flogging, lashing, paddling, scourging, strapping and whipping as well as flagellation.
There is a theology of “penance” within the Catholic church which associates personal pain with repentance. Martin Luther, the reformer, often whipped himself till he lay bleeding on the floor of his monastery cell, until He found release salvation through faith alone. `Self-flagellation’, punishment of one’s own body, is a twisted understanding of the body and the flesh. Misunderstandings arise from verses such as: “You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin” (Hebrews 12:4).
The body is not sinful in itself, though fallen through Adam. The flesh, however, refers, to our fallen nature and character of man, our inner bias towards sin. Punishing the body does nothing to weaken the flesh. Only faith in Christ, who, as the sinless Lamb of God, endured the ultimate pain of death on the Cross, bearing our sins in His own body.
There is another type of self-inflicted pain which is because of self-hatred. Some helpful resources can be found at: http://www.self-injury.orgSome derive perverted pleasure through pain, sado-masochism. This is often a sexual fetish and shows the nature of the devil who deceives us: “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.” People who use pain to excite themselves will use: beating, belting, birching, caning, flogging, lashing, paddling, scourging, strapping and whipping as well as flagellation.
There is a theology of “penance” within the Catholic church which associates personal pain with repentance. Martin Luther, the reformer, often whipped himself till he lay bleeding on the floor of his monastery cell, until He found release salvation through faith alone. `Self-flagellation’, punishment of one’s own body, is a twisted understanding of the body and the flesh. Misunderstandings arise from verses such as: “You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin” (Hebrews 12:4).
The body is not sinful in itself, though fallen through Adam. The flesh, however, refers, to our fallen nature and character of man, our inner bias towards sin. Punishing the body does nothing to weaken the flesh. Only faith in Christ, who, as the sinless Lamb of God, endured the ultimate pain of death on the Cross, bearing our sins in His own body.
There is another type of self-inflicted pain which is because of self-hatred. Some helpful resources can be found at: http://www.self-injury.org
47. Various types Self-flagellation
48. Various types Self-flagellation, pain for penance Flagellation in the name of a god is far from being a rare thing. Nearly all of the mother religions, the ancient mystery cults of the great Mediterranean civilizations of Greece, Egypt, Rome and Persia, and even the religions of Islam and (Catholic) Christianity have, at some point in history, incorporated flagellation into their spiritual rites and practices.
In pagan Sparta, for instance, each year, during a festival called 'Day of Flagellations', young men were brought before an altar dedicated to the goddess Diana where they were whipped from dusk to dawn. People would turn out from all over the countryside to view the whippings and to cheer and encourage the boys to 'bear the pain with fortitude.' Priests, who would bear witness to the entire ceremony, would, at the end of the day, examine the wounds on each of the boys, and, according to the sizes and shapes of the wounds, would predict the young men's futures. I might also mention, that it was not uncommon for some of the boys to die from the terrible wounds inflicted upon them during this ceremony, often without ever having uttered a sound.
Flagellation in the name of a god is far from being a rare thing. Nearly all of the mother religions, the ancient mystery cults of the great Mediterranean civilizations of Greece, Egypt, Rome and Persia, and even the religions of Islam and (Catholic) Christianity have, at some point in history, incorporated flagellation into their spiritual rites and practices.
In pagan Sparta, for instance, each year, during a festival called 'Day of Flagellations', young men were brought before an altar dedicated to the goddess Diana where they were whipped from dusk to dawn. People would turn out from all over the countryside to view the whippings and to cheer and encourage the boys to 'bear the pain with fortitude.' Priests, who would bear witness to the entire ceremony, would, at the end of the day, examine the wounds on each of the boys, and, according to the sizes and shapes of the wounds, would predict the young men's futures. I might also mention, that it was not uncommon for some of the boys to die from the terrible wounds inflicted upon them during this ceremony, often without ever having uttered a sound.
49. Various types Some go so far as crucifixion Every year, over the Easter holiday. dozens of Filipinos flagellate themselves in public and have themselves crucified, sometimes for hours at a time. They do it for different reasons; sometimes to atone for sins, sometimes to give thanks for a miracle they have received.
They make sure that they don’t die in the crucifixion, but they make themselves suffer nevertheless. This is surely a slap in the face of the One who suffered and died for us, and Who said as He died: “It is sufficient”.Every year, over the Easter holiday. dozens of Filipinos flagellate themselves in public and have themselves crucified, sometimes for hours at a time. They do it for different reasons; sometimes to atone for sins, sometimes to give thanks for a miracle they have received.
They make sure that they don’t die in the crucifixion, but they make themselves suffer nevertheless. This is surely a slap in the face of the One who suffered and died for us, and Who said as He died: “It is sufficient”.
50. Popularity of tattoos Even among many Christians the once-forbidden tattoo is welcomed with open arms (and legs, and necks, and backs, etc)
Not surprising the major perpetrator of the Christian tattoo is the Christian rock music community.
51. Popularity of tattoos And fast following their Christian rock idols, thousands of Christian young people are getting "marked for Jesus" with the tattoo.
A Christian Tattoo Association (CTA) has been established See: http://www.xtat.org/
Their argument: ).
“But if one wants to live by the law -- the Old Covenant -- then one must keep all of it (JAS 2:10). Transgressing any part of the law means we are guilty of transgressing all of it. According to Levitical law, we may not eat the meat of rabbits or pigs (LEV 11:6-7), nor lobsters, crabs, prawns, oysters or clams (LEV 11:10-12). Hybrid breeding of livestock and mixing linen and wool in fabrics is prohibited (LEV 19:19). Shaving the sides of your head (being clean shaven) or disfiguring the edges of your beard (trimming) are also forbidden (LEV 19:27). So -- if you've ever eaten a pork sandwich, dined on Maine lobster, trimmed your beard or worn a wool blend suit -- or have gotten a tattoo -- you're guilty under the law!”... Personally, I don't see what all the fuss is about. As Christians we should take dead aim at the devil and his unholy minions -- not at brothers and sisters in the Lord who happen to be decorated (or those who are not). Paul himself advises us not to engage in foolish disputes and arguments over the law. He calls it useless and unprofitable (TITUS 3:9). Besides, once that machine starts buzzing, I've got a great opportunity to have the undivided attention of my customer to share the good news -- should he or she have "ears to hear"... A good Biblical argument against this can be found at: www.av1611.org/tattoos/intro.html
See: http://www.xtat.org/
Their argument: ).
“But if one wants to live by the law -- the Old Covenant -- then one must keep all of it (JAS 2:10). Transgressing any part of the law means we are guilty of transgressing all of it. According to Levitical law, we may not eat the meat of rabbits or pigs (LEV 11:6-7), nor lobsters, crabs, prawns, oysters or clams (LEV 11:10-12). Hybrid breeding of livestock and mixing linen and wool in fabrics is prohibited (LEV 19:19). Shaving the sides of your head (being clean shaven) or disfiguring the edges of your beard (trimming) are also forbidden (LEV 19:27). So -- if you've ever eaten a pork sandwich, dined on Maine lobster, trimmed your beard or worn a wool blend suit -- or have gotten a tattoo -- you're guilty under the law!”... Personally, I don't see what all the fuss is about. As Christians we should take dead aim at the devil and his unholy minions -- not at brothers and sisters in the Lord who happen to be decorated (or those who are not). Paul himself advises us not to engage in foolish disputes and arguments over the law. He calls it useless and unprofitable (TITUS 3:9). Besides, once that machine starts buzzing, I've got a great opportunity to have the undivided attention of my customer to share the good news -- should he orshe have "ears to hear"... A good Biblical argument against this can be found at: www.av1611.org/tattoos/intro.html
52. Popularity of Tattoos Modern and Primitive Modern - Primitive MatchedModern - Primitive Matched
53. Popularity of Tattoos Coptic Christian - Ethiopia
Although tattoos are considered primitive by most Ethiopians, many Coptic Christians, like this woman in Lalibela, are marked with crosses to show their strong faith. Applied with needles, the marks can extend around the neck and down the chest.
Source: Nationalgeographic.com
Although tattoos are considered primitive by most Ethiopians, many Coptic Christians, like this woman in Lalibela, are marked with crosses to show their strong faith. Applied with needles, the marks can extend around the neck and down the chest.
Source: Nationalgeographic.com
54. Popularity of Tattoos The Tribe - Modern Primitivism Movement Called the Tribe, these men (gathered under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco) are leaders of the local Modern Primitivism movement. The Tribe has a tattoo parlor that does only tribal marking. Several of the tattoo artists have traveled to Borneo and learned the craft from tribal masters. Source: National Geographic.com
Called the Tribe, these men (gathered under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco) are leaders of the local Modern Primitivism movement. The Tribe has a tattoo parlor that does only tribal marking. Several of the tattoo artists have traveled to Borneo and learned the craft from tribal masters.Source: National Geographic.com
55. What does the Bible say? “You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the Lord.” Lev 19:28
Throughout history the tattoo bears the mark of paganism, demonism, Baal worship, shamanism, mysticism, heathenism, cannibalism etc Some theologians object to this and say that laws like these belong to Old Testament levitical or ceremonial law--which has been set aside or annulled with the coming of Christ (Col. 2:16-17; Acts 15). Leviticus is full of such laws, including the command one verse earlier: "Do not cut the hair at the sides of your head or clip off the edges of your beard.”
However, it seems clear that even these ritual laws were in place to separate God’s people from pagan practices.
This should only confirm the importance of not “conforming to the world.”
"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light." 1 Peter 2:9
In 1Cor 6:15, 19-20 we are told that our “bodies are the temple of God.” Dare we mark God’s temple with heathen symbols? Dr Peter Hammond points out: “Biblically, a pierced ear is a public indication of permanent slavery. When the Hebrews were led out of slavery in Egypt by Moses, they were urged `take off the gold earrings … so all the people took off their earrings … These are your gods, O Israel.’ And in Exodus 32: 1-3 `After God spoke to Jacob, ... Along with their stone idols, they buried their earrings.’”
Some theologians object to this and say that laws like these belong to Old Testament levitical or ceremonial law--which has been set aside or annulled with the coming of Christ (Col. 2:16-17; Acts 15). Leviticus is full of such laws, including the command one verse earlier: "Do not cut the hair at the sides of your head or clip off the edges of your beard.”
However, it seems clear that even these ritual laws were in place to separate God’s people from pagan practices.
This should only confirm the importance of not “conforming to the world.”
"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light." 1 Peter 2:9
In 1Cor 6:15, 19-20 we are told that our “bodies are the temple of God.” Dare we mark God’s temple with heathen symbols?Dr Peter Hammond points out: “Biblically, a pierced ear is a public indication of permanent slavery. When the Hebrews were led out of slavery in Egypt by Moses, they were urged `take off the gold earrings … so all the people took off their earrings … These are your gods, O Israel.’ And in Exodus 32: 1-3 `After God spoke to Jacob, ... Along with their stone idols, they buried their earrings.’”
56. What does the Bible say? The tattoo has NEVER been associated with Bible Believing Christians. And whenever and wherever, in history Christianity appears – tattoos disappear. The only exception is recent, lukewarm, carnal, disobedient, Laodicean Christians.
"Just as occurred in other cultures with tattoo traditions, when these pagan tribes were ‘converted’ to the Christian religion, their spiritual and cultural rites (which included tattooing, piercing and scarification) were outlawed. . ." (Jean-Chris Miller, The Body Art Book : A Complete, Illustrated Guide to Tattoos, Piercings, and Other Body Modifications, p.9)
Amazing. . . When the Lord Jesus Christ enters in – the tattoo goes out.
"Whenever missionaries encountered tattooing they eradicated it." (Gilbert, Steve, Tattoo History: A Source Book, p. 101)
"While these and other body modifications continued to be practiced underground as a way for non-Christian people to identify each other, God forbid you got caught and your mark was revealed." (Jean-Chris Miller, The Body Art Book : A Complete, Illustrated Guide to Tattoos, Piercings, and Other Body Modifications, p.11)
"Just as occurred in other cultures with tattoo traditions, when these pagan tribes were ‘converted’ to the Christian religion, their spiritual and cultural rites (which included tattooing, piercing and scarification) were outlawed. . ."(Jean-Chris Miller, The Body Art Book : A Complete, Illustrated Guide to Tattoos, Piercings, and Other Body Modifications, p.9)
Amazing. . . When the Lord Jesus Christ enters in – the tattoo goes out.
"Whenever missionaries encountered tattooing they eradicated it."(Gilbert, Steve, Tattoo History: A Source Book, p. 101)
"While these and other body modifications continued to be practiced underground as a way for non-Christian people to identify each other, God forbid you got caught and your mark was revealed."(Jean-Chris Miller, The Body Art Book : A Complete, Illustrated Guide to Tattoos, Piercings, and Other Body Modifications, p.11)
57. Christ’s piercing for us “He was pierced for our iniquities” Is 53
No self-inflicted injury is necessary
He has paid the Redemption price
Christ has inscribed, or `tattooed’ you on His hands Is 49:16 "See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; your walls are continually before Me" (Isaiah 49:16, NKJV).
This powerful imagery of the Christ of the inscribed hands is reminiscent of the nail-pierced hands of Jesus. It takes us back to re-live the scene of His hands being nailed to the cross. Those gracious hands were once engaged in blessing little children, healing the sick, making the broken whole, and lifting the fallen. Cruel hands nailed them to the cross.
The Christ of the inscribed hands dominates history. His nail-scarred hands speak with eloquence of the nature and duration of redeeming love. A mother's love, though the strongest love known to human beings, cannot equal that of God's incomparable agape kind of love. To confirm the depth and enduring quality of Christ's love, He has engraved the redeemed on the palms of His hands by His crucifixion. Throughout all eternity, the nail prints in the hands of Jesus will be a perpetual reminder of His matchless love and grace. We are inscribed on our Saviour's hands because we are precious to Him.
In his magnificent painting, "What Happened to Your Hands," Harry Anderson captured the significance of the nail-pierced hands on canvas. Jesus is surrounded by bright-eyed, inquiring children scrutinizing His scarred hands. With concern, they look Jesus in the face and ask, "What happened to Your hands?" We are reminded that "Jesus will present His hands with the marks of His crucifixion. The marks of this cruelty He will ever bear. Every print of the nails will tell the story of Man's wonderful redemption and the dear price by which it was purchased."--Early Writings, p. 179. "See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; your walls are continually before Me" (Isaiah 49:16, NKJV).
This powerful imagery of the Christ of the inscribed hands is reminiscent of the nail-pierced hands of Jesus. It takes us back to re-live the scene of His hands being nailed to the cross. Those gracious hands were once engaged in blessing little children, healing the sick, making the broken whole, and lifting the fallen. Cruel hands nailed them to the cross.
The Christ of the inscribed hands dominates history. His nail-scarred hands speak with eloquence of the nature and duration of redeeming love. A mother's love, though the strongest love known to human beings, cannot equal that of God's incomparable agape kind of love. To confirm the depth and enduring quality of Christ's love, He has engraved the redeemed on the palms of His hands by His crucifixion. Throughout all eternity, the nail prints in the hands of Jesus will be a perpetual reminder of His matchless love and grace. We are inscribed on our Saviour's hands because we are precious to Him.
In his magnificent painting, "What Happened to Your Hands," Harry Anderson captured the significance of the nail-pierced hands on canvas. Jesus is surrounded by bright-eyed, inquiring children scrutinizing His scarred hands. With concern, they look Jesus in the face and ask, "What happened to Your hands?" We are reminded that "Jesus will present His hands with the marks of His crucifixion. The marks of this cruelty He will ever bear. Every print of the nails will tell the story of Man's wonderful redemption and the dear price by which it was purchased."--Early Writings, p. 179.
58. Christ’s victory over death Christ’s death and resurrection gives us life. The tattoo culture is obsessed with death. "Death and darkness have always been a classic tattoo theme – skulls, snakes, demons, spiders and spiderwebs are all conventional tattoo imagery. Darkside tattooing takes our fascination with mortality, death, isolation, fear and evil to new levels." (Jean-Chris Miller, The Body Art Book : A Complete, Illustrated Guide to Tattoos, Piercings, and Other Body Modifications, p. 56)
According to authors Henry Ferguson and Lynn Procter of The Art of the Tattoo, the most popular tattooed image of today is – "the all-pervasive grinning skull!"
"Skulls imprinted on skin abound, and depictions of the Grim Reaper are commonly seen. . . These images, indelibly marked on the skin, reflect uncertainty about the future, and sublimate the pervasive fear of the unknown. Possibly, at the same time, to wear a death’s figure on one’s body may be an invocation of whatever undefinable forces of nature and the cosmos that exist, in an attempt to protect the wearer from such a fate." (Henry Ferguson and Lynn Procter, The Art of the Tattoo, p. 76)
“Death is swallowed up in victory”. 1 Corinthians 15:54"Death and darkness have always been a classic tattoo theme – skulls, snakes, demons, spiders and spiderwebs are all conventional tattoo imagery. Darkside tattooing takes our fascination with mortality, death, isolation, fear and evil to new levels."(Jean-Chris Miller, The Body Art Book : A Complete, Illustrated Guide to Tattoos, Piercings, and Other Body Modifications, p. 56)
According to authors Henry Ferguson and Lynn Procter of The Art of the Tattoo, the most popular tattooed image of today is – "the all-pervasive grinning skull!"
"Skulls imprinted on skin abound, and depictions of the Grim Reaper are commonly seen. . . These images, indelibly marked on the skin, reflect uncertainty about the future, and sublimate the pervasive fear of the unknown. Possibly, at the same time, to wear a death’s figure on one’s body may be an invocation of whatever undefinable forces of nature and the cosmos that exist, in an attempt to protect the wearer from such a fate."(Henry Ferguson and Lynn Procter, The Art of the Tattoo, p. 76)
“Death is swallowed up in victory”. 1 Corinthians 15:54
59. Christ’s victory over hell “And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. . ." Revelation 6:8
“Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels” Matthew 25:41
In Hebrews chapter 2, the Bible says the Devil "had the power of death". Death is the devil’s masterpiece. Death was his greatest triumph. And Praise the Lord, the Lord Jesus Christ took the devil’s greatest triumph and the Devil’s ultimate power – death, and defeated him with it! Hallelujah!
Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he [Jesus] also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; Hebrews 2:14
In Hebrews chapter 2, the Bible says the Devil "had the power of death". Death is the devil’s masterpiece. Death was his greatest triumph. And Praise the Lord, the Lord Jesus Christ took the devil’s greatest triumph and the Devil’s ultimate power – death, and defeated him with it! Hallelujah!
Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he [Jesus] also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;Hebrews 2:14
60. Christ’s victory over hell Tattoos are preoccupied with death, hell and the flames of hell It’s also worth noting that not only is Death a major subject of tattoos but so is fire, flames and HELL. Revelation 6 says his name was Death and HELL FOLLOWED.
And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. . ." Revelation 6:8
It’s no coincidence that closely "following" death "sitting" on the tattoo – follows flames, fire and hell. One of the all-time favorite subjects of the tattoo is flames and fire. Now. . . who is interested in glorifying flames and fire?
It’s also worth noting that not only is Death a major subject of tattoos but so is fire, flames and HELL. Revelation 6 says his name was Death and HELL FOLLOWED.
And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. . ."Revelation 6:8
It’s no coincidence that closely "following" death "sitting" on the tattoo – follows flames, fire and hell. One of the all-time favorite subjects of the tattoo is flames and fire. Now. . . who is interested in glorifying flames and fire?
61. Christ’s victory over the devil And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound…”Rev 22:2
“Neither give place to the devil.” Ephesians 4:27 One of the most popular tattooists is Paul Booth who says on his own web site describing his blasphemous, satanic tattoos and mission: "Spewed from the depth of Hell, Paul's mission has been to reconfigure human hides and spread divine declarations of Blasphemy."
Tattoo artist "Liorcifer" says on his web site:
"Liorcifer is a spawn of Satan, brother of Lucifier, Soldier of Darkness, warrior against all that is good and holy. Liocifer has been leaving his mark on flesh since the dawn of time."
Another popular tattoo artist, Tim Kern writes of his Bio on his web site:
"A faithless Deviant, Tim has been staining skin since the Black Plague. Soon to be one of Satan's leading henchmen, Tim will spread Profane Immorality with each stroke of his Evil machine. . ."
Is there any doubt who is the "master tattooist"?
For some are already turned aside after Satan. 1 Timothy 5:15
One of the most popular tattooists is Paul Booth who says on his own web site describing his blasphemous, satanic tattoos and mission: "Spewed from the depth of Hell, Paul's mission has been to reconfigure human hides and spread divine declarations of Blasphemy."
Tattoo artist "Liorcifer" says on his web site:
"Liorcifer is a spawn of Satan, brother of Lucifier, Soldier of Darkness, warrior against all that is good and holy. Liocifer has been leaving his mark on flesh since the dawn of time."
Another popular tattoo artist, Tim Kern writes of his Bio on his web site:
"A faithless Deviant, Tim has been staining skin since the Black Plague. Soon to be one of Satan's leading henchmen, Tim will spread Profane Immorality with each stroke of his Evil machine. . ."
Is there any doubt who is the "master tattooist"?
For some are already turned aside after Satan.1 Timothy 5:15
62. His mark forever Revelation 7:2-3: “...till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads.” Revelation 14:1: “And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, ..., having his Father's name written in their foreheads.
And there are other ways that we show that we belong to the Lord. As believers, we are to be set apart. There should be something about the way you carry yourself and your lifestyle that tells the world that you are one of Christ's own. Did you know that a shepherd would use a large killing knife to carve his own distinct ear mark into one of his sheep's ears? He would catch the sheep, lay her ear on a wooden block, and then notch the ear deeply with the razor sharp edge of the knife. This way even at a distance it was easy to determine whom the sheep belonged to. Do you have Christ's mark on you, or do you look just like the crowd? If you blend in too easily with the people of this world, perhaps the Lord is not truly your Shepherd.
“A permanent mark or design fixed upon the body by a process of pricking the skin and inserting an indelible color under the skin. The moral and ceremonial laws of Leviticus declare "You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks upon you" <Lev. 19:28>. Any kind of self laceration or marking of the body was prohibited among the Hebrew people. Such cuttings were associated with pagan cults that tattooed their followers while they mourned the dead.”
(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)
And there are other ways that we show that we belong to the Lord. As believers, we are to be set apart. There should be something about the way you carry yourself and your lifestyle that tells the world that you are one of Christ's own. Did you know that a shepherd would use a large killing knife to carve his own distinct ear mark into one of his sheep's ears? He would catch the sheep, lay her ear on a wooden block, and then notch the ear deeply with the razor sharp edge of the knife. This way even at a distance it was easy to determine whom the sheep belonged to. Do you have Christ's mark on you, or do you look just like the crowd? If you blend in too easily with the people of this world, perhaps the Lord is not truly your Shepherd.
“A permanent mark or design fixed upon the body by a process of pricking the skin and inserting an indelible color under the skin. The moral and ceremonial laws of Leviticus declare "You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks upon you" <Lev. 19:28>. Any kind of self laceration or marking of the body was prohibited among the Hebrew people. Such cuttings were associated with pagan cults that tattooed their followers while they mourned the dead.”
(from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary)
