Photo of Herod's Temple (model) found on edibleteacher.com |
I cannot tell you how many times I heard this verse used as a child and youth in a manner that was not holy. I heard people repeatedly use this scripture as an excuse to be intolerant about a variety of body modifications: tattoos, body piercings, even hair dye. Here's the thing that really kills me: I believed it. I thought that these people, who I highly respected, certainly understood what the Bible was talking about. Because I knew that they had my best interests at heart, and were much more knowledgeable than I, I never questioned it.
In fact, I was 28 years old before I finally allowed myself to be okay with coloring my hair. Guess what - I don't think this was an unholy act. I don't believe that this was a sin that destroyed my "temple". I have a different understanding now about what this means. I'm still working on forming my mind around the truth in the statement, and apply it to my life.
I plan to share more about what this means in my life over the next several weeks. Please stay tuned, challenge yourself to think about your understanding of this verse. Please share in the comment section. What do you think this verse is about? Is it a sin against the body to get a tattoo, color your hair, or pierce your body?
My faith is a leading factor in my current desire to achieve better health. I hope that as I share, you will also begin a journey toward self-improvement.