In our contemporary minds, we often associate piercings with tattoos, and we may wonder if they are equally forbidden. Indeed, Scripture clearly forbids all tattoos (aside from those made for medical purposes, such as to guide a surgeon): “You shall not etch a tattoo on yourselves.”1
Biblical Precedent
No such prohibition exists, however, in regards to piercing. In fact, the Torah tells us that Eliezer presented Rebbeca with a nezem (either a nose ring or earring)2 as a gift, and that Aaron instructed the men to bring their wives’ earrings for the golden calf,3 indicating that they were commonly worn by our ancestors.
Moreover, Jewish Law discusses the permissibility of wearing both nose rings and earrings while out on Shabbat, and whether there is reason to fear that it may lead one to transgress the law against carrying in the public domain on the sacred day of rest.4
But why is piercing allowed? Shouldn’t it be forbidden under the general ban on self-harm?
The Lubavitcher Rebbe addresses this issue and concludes that it is not considered harm since the piercing has a practical long-term function—allowing the woman to painlessly and easily wear her ring for many years to come.5 Thus, as long as piercings are not disfiguring or demeaning, they are allowed.6
“Gentile” Piercings
There is, however, an important caveat: the Torah enjoins us not to follow the ways of the gentiles.7
The parameters of this mitzvah can be fuzzy and evolve according to societal norms. We read in the Code of Jewish Law that it can include things like cutting hair or wearing clothes in ways that are common among non-Jews.8
However, not all clothing worn by non-Jews is forbidden. For example, just because non-Jewish construction workers wear yellow vests doesn’t mean Jewish construction workers should not also wear them. This is a useful wardrobe choice, which Jews should surely adopt. The same goes for other uniforms, which help us identify professionals and service providers, even though their originators were non-Jewish.
On the other hand, if a specific cut, color, or fabric choice is common among gentiles and reflects a certain idolatrous or licentious element of society, this would be forbidden. The example given is wearing red, which was favored by women whose moral standards were not quite up to snuff.9
Back to piercings: Some piercings have no non-Jewish connotations and are OK. This surely includes a simple piercing on each ear (for a woman) and may also include other piercings, depending on the specifics of a given time and place.
On the other hand, it seems quite clear that other piercings are perceived as non-Jewish and are reflective of a certain rebellious culture, and they are certainly forbidden, as are piercings that are disfiguring or otherwise harmful.
If you are considering getting a piercing and are not sure if it’s OK, consult with your community rabbi, who would be best positioned to advise you on how these laws apply in your locale.
I am considering ear piercing, not the lobs as the hole would show, but the helix or conch where the holes are not seen if the rings are removed. Is this acceptable? Thanks Rachel Barrett
Missing the point here. Any defiling of the body, a gift from G-d, perfection by His Will, is not permissible. Especially because the reason is vanity and pride, and some perceived need for individuality beyond G-d's already created uniqueness. It does not extend to medical modifications to preserve life, because that is not vanity or pride. Tatts and piercings flaunt your disregard of His Will, and puts your ego ahead of HIM. You already are perfect in His eyes without these mods, are you saying what G-d made isn't beautiful and good enough? Answer carefully. Only slaves and prisoners are forcibly marked.
Tattoos are like charms and amulets. They are put there to protect oneself rather than relying on G-d.
Gee, that's not the impression I got from Rabbi Posner's article at all.
Of course, we are told that G-d creates crops and Man bakes the bread produced from these.
Hence the rationality by which circumcision might be explained and justified, the reason for our not being born already circumcised!!
(I am happy to have been circumcised, incidentally, but I also reserve the right to have an ear-piercing!).
Leopold Loewer.
The Rabbi doesn't explain the reason other than the torah prohibits it. The discussion is mainly about piercings. But if you research it, you will find that tattoos are prohibited also because the priests of Egypt and other pagan religions used tattoos as symbols of allegiance to idolatry dieties. G-d wanted Jewish identity to be distinct from practices rooted in idolatry. Also, many rely on tattoos as a form of personal protection when our protection should rely on G-d.
Yes but the subject under discussion is PIERCINGS. Try to stay on point.