Nuns should be permitted to express themselves through their tattoos just like everyone else since they are human beings just like anyone else.
Although many people believe it would be improper to take advice from a nun with tattoos, this does not imply that it is correct. What could be more personal than self-expression, after all? That choice should be up to each nun individually.
There are numerous justifications for and against allowing tattoos on nuns. Others contend that it’s a form of self-expression and should be permitted, while some believe it shows disrespect for the church and its believers.
What does the Catholic faith itself say? Can you become a nun if you have tattoos?
Can Nuns Have Tattoos?
In general, nuns are not prohibited from getting tattoos by law or regulation. Each nun must decide for herself because the Catholic Church has not taken a formal position on the subject.
Nevertheless, there are many individuals within the Church who believe nuns shouldn’t have tattoos. They contend that it exhibits disdain for the religious organization and its regulations.
Additionally, finding a church that will allow tattooed nuns is not always simple, even if religion or law does not forbid it. The decision is frequently left up to the nun’s diocese or specific parish.
- Related: Can Priests Have Tattoos?
Therefore, even though there is no official Catholic position on the subject, it is safe to conclude that most Catholics would prefer it if nuns didn’t have tattoos.
Consequently, it is extremely uncommon to see a Catholic nun who has tattoos.
Tattoos to Avoid for Nuns
Nuns should obviously refrain from getting tattoos that feature bad language or nudity. Anything that can be construed as anti-religious or insulting to the Church also falls under this category.
Furthermore, any visible tattoos in public should be suitable and discreet. A tattoo on the face or neck, for instance, is more likely to spark debate than one on the arms or legs.
It’s crucial to carefully evaluate the design and placement if you’re a nun thinking about getting a tattoo. Keep in mind that, as an ambassador for the Church, your tattoos will be interpreted as symbols of the Catholic faith.
What Religions Ban Tattoos?
While the Catholic faith appears to be somewhat tolerant of tattoos, other religions have a much tougher view.
For instance, tattoos are typically forbidden in Orthodox Judaism. This is based on Leviticus, which says, “You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord.”
In a similar vein, Islam considers tattoos to be haram (forbidden). Although there are a few different interpretations of this, it is generally agreed that tattoos are viewed as an act of mutilation and as such are forbidden by Allah.
Additionally, certain Hindu sects forbid tattoos because they consider them to be insulting to the body. This isn’t a universal Hinduism belief, though.
Why Do Nuns Want to Get Tattooed?
Why do some nuns still want tattoos if they still consider them to be somewhat taboo?
Many nuns see it as a way to express their uniqueness and personalities. Having a tattoo can make individuals feel more at home in a line of work that can be rather professional and rigorous.
Additionally, some nuns could use their tattoos as a kind of social interaction.
Nuns have desires to get tattoos for a variety of reasons, just like other individuals. However, they frequently need to be more cautious regarding the layout and placement of their tattoos because of their status within the Church.
