72

Not to tattoo the skin

The Luchos - Ten Commandments
מִצְוָה עֲשֵׂה - Positive Commandment
מִצְוָה לֹא תַעֲשֶׂה - Negative Commandment
Holiness – קְדוּשָּׁה

We are forbidden from tattooing our bodies. Tattooing was common practice amongst the ancient idol-worshippers.

This mitzvah forbids making tattoos or markings on the body. In ancient times, idolaters would mark themselves with symbols of their gods or cults, and the Torah prohibits such practices to preserve the holiness and uniqueness of Israel. The prohibition applies even when done without idolatrous intent, as it degrades the sanctity of the body, which is created in the image of Hashem.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

  • Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 12:11): States that liability comes only from permanent ink markings, written or scratched into the skin.
  • Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 253): Explains that tattoos were a sign of submission to idolatry, and Israel is commanded to keep its bodies pure and unmarked.
  • Talmud (Makkot 21a): Clarifies that writing even one letter or symbol permanently on the flesh constitutes a violation.
(Source: Chabad.org)
וְשֶׂ֣רֶט לָנֶ֗פֶשׁ לֹ֤א תִתְּנוּ֙ בִּבְשַׂרְכֶ֔ם וּכְתֹ֣בֶת קַֽעֲקַ֔ע לֹ֥א תִתְּנ֖וּ בָּכֶ֑ם אֲנִ֖י יְהֹוָֽה׃ - פָּרָשַׁת קְדשִׁים
Leviticus 19:28 - "You shall not make cuts in your flesh for a person [who died]. You shall not etch a tattoo on yourselves. I am the Lord."

This Mitzvah's Fundamentals

Holiness - קְדֻשָּׁה

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Represents the concept of  spiritual intentionality, purity, and sanctity—set apart for a higher purpose.

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Covenant - בְּרִית

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Tied to the eternal covenant between G‑d and the Jewish people, including signs like brit milah and Shabbat.

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Faith - אֱמוּנָה

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Represents Emunah—the deep, inner trust in Hashem’s presence, oneness, and constant involvement in our lives. This badge symbolizes a heartfelt connection to G-d, rooted in belief even when we cannot see. It is the emotional and spiritual core of many mitzvot.

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