The Jewish Tattoo

Tatoos can be removed should you want. Hadassah hospital plastic surgery can do it; there are many Jews who became observant and had this done and.
had their tatoos removed. In Biblical times slaves were tatooed, and that is where the prohibition comes from.

Nothing like Jewish stereotypes. There are so many.People have reasons for what they do. I hate tattoos so much but cannot judge any more. I"ve met some menshes with tattoos; Jewish & non-Jewish. Someone said ear peirecing isn't OK?
Cannot disagree more. I"ve asked very religious ppl & they peirce ears all the time. My daughter myself, Rabbis wives.
Don't pass false info. That is a no no. I wouldn't pierce anything besides ears. And only 1 ear piercing. 2 is cute; but
it looks almost cheap to me. ( Almost) The thing I hate about Jewish sterotypes is how it sepraates us. We're not all better, wer're not all richer or smarer. Unfortunately some Jews are so lazy you wouldn't even want to talk about it. Not all motivated. I'm Jewish for gernerations. We don't own a businesss, we are not of gifted intelligence, we are ordinary kind people. We are prod of who we are but we are Very Humbe most of the time. I come from generations of humble.
All Jews are more different than anyone realizes.

how religious is daniel today?

It is perfectly understandable how Daniel felt when first being exposed to Judaism. My parents, whom I loved deeply, ate ham and insisted on dragging my brother and me to their orthodox shul on Rosh Hannah and Yom Kippur. Sitting in the balcony, smelling the burning of the scores of yahrzeit candles drifting up from the basement, listening to the buzz of mumbled Hebrew would soon lull me into a deep sleep. THAT was Judaism? Feh! Being the only Jewish girl in my grammar school mean being an open target for the kids whose fathers had died in WWII, supposedly because of the Jews. (Either we started the war or their fathers had died to save us...) I became TARGET ONE. Who needs to be a Jew? I didn't even know what it meant! No matter what happened in school, "I" was the "dirty little Jew" who caused the trouble. It seemed to me at the time that I spent more time in the principal's office than in class. At least in Dallas, there was a large Jewish presence, in 1945, when I began school, in a small New England town, life was not good...particularly for a Jewish girl. Then came the revolution: I refused to go with my parents to their shul. NO WAY. Then and only then did I discover that there were shuls of "other flavors." I began attending a Conservative shul...they even spoke some English! The place smelled good and people laughed. To make a long story short, had I not discovered that one did not have to sit in a balcony nor have to smell candles burning in the basement, etc. etc. I would not be a Jew today. My Hebrew teachers believed what they said, the rabbi believed what he said... Now, I attend a Reformed shul because we are a family of Jews with a wonderful rabbi and an equally wonderful core of Jews who love each other and love Judaism. My one source of disappointment is that I will never visit Israel. It will only remain a dream, thanks to the banks who destroyed life savings of so many of us. Such is life sometimes.

As a professional tattooist and a Jew, I feel the need to chime in on this one. In my industry, I have never been allowed to forget that I am a Jew. From my nickname, the Hebrew hammer (long before the movie), to the negative remarks and comedic jabs I have endured for years, I have always been reminded of my faith. As I grew older, I felt less and less of a need to identify with my constituency as a tattooist and more of a need to belong to my community... A Jewish community. Having tattoos of Jewish subject matter aside, my tattoos have always drawn comments regarding the taboo. Fortunately I have always been willing to engage in conversation in a passive manner regarding tattoos and Jews, unlike our hero Daniel. This is primarily due to the fact that I really like(d) tattoos and a chance to discuss them was always welcome. Growing up, I too heard that we were NOT supposed to have nor do tattoos. Both forbidden by the torah, spelled out several times (yes, it's unfortunately in there). The problem I had as a youth was simple... "You cannot be buried in ..." I figured that when you are dead, who cares! I wanted to have and do tattoos. Oy, if I had only known then what I know now, I would have MORE Jewish tattoos than anything else. As a professional tattooist, I often times try to steer clients toward images that will reflect who they are from now until the day they die, sentimental images or meaningful on some level spirituality or introspection. Looking back, I regret none of my tattoos, however I do wish I had more tattoos that reflect what I am most proud of and that is my faith and heritage. In closing, I ask those of us with no tattoos to be as tolerant and understanding as the torah demands we be. By the way, I am a member of an Orthodox Shul, married to a wonderful woman, have a great job, run a successful business, I don't do drugs and have NEVER been to prison. Ps. Tattoo removal is a no-no as well as are pierced ears, shaven faces etc. :)

We never know when the covenant will be offered to us. Not everyone gets it at birth. As one who realized this and accepted later in life, I think we are generally the lucky ones. We get the thrill of falling in love!!!!

Hello, Scott. The simplest answer about the difference between a tat and a necklace is the marks is permanent in the flesh. The tribes around Ancient Israel often had cuttings and markings that had religious significance. How to separate yourself? Forbid cutting or marking the skin. This is a purely anthropological view, and it is codified in Judaism, but alas, I'm not so well learned as to have it at my fingertips. What I can say, is proud Jews with ink helped lead me home. Shalom.

I LOVED THE LETTER FROM DANIEL. REGARDING THE TATOO, STAR OF DAVID, THE BEAUTIFUL BLESSING GOD GRANTED TO HIM, VERY INSPIRING. THANK YOU FOR SHARING.

Sometimes truth sounds ridiculous but never loose an atom from its ultimate quality. Some people are still in condition like his, searching for such opportunity to pull out from darkness. If such tattoo will clarify a hidden truth, why not??? addage says; Tell the TRUTH and shame the devil.

In Israel at least is a state institution called the Chief Rabbinate who does not fulfill his role as a presenter to the people of even the most basic Jewish traditions via the public media which I would imagine as a public servant he would have accesess to. In America the situation is even more chaotic no central spokesman. With absolutely no guidence what can you expect of the youth ?

One of the amazing and ironic things about this story is the manner in which Daniel was led to Judaism - a tattoo that, according to Judaism, he was not supposed to get. Of course, at the time, Daniel was either unaware that he wasn't supposed to get tattooed or was unaware of its relevance and negative spiritual implications. For those suggesting Daniel should now get the tattoo removed, it should be pointed out that, according to Judaism, there is no problem with HAVING a tattoo. There is only a problem with the process of GETTING a tattoo. In fact, most processes of getting a tattoo removed are just as problematic as the process of getting a tattoo inked on. (By the way, the myth that someone with a tattoo can't be buried in a Jewish cemetery is just a myth mother's told their kids to try to stop them from getting tattoos!)

to daniel of the article.....what a gift has God granted you bringing you home - although in a round about manner ! to ms. sandy becker (#5) re your grandson, daniel, may daniel be a melitz yosher (an advocate) up in heaven for all his jewish brethern.

We all strive to do what Torah calls us to . We may not have tattoos but none of us should point fingers ... Isn't it the journey as well as the arrival that it is all about

Until this article was posted, I never gave much thought to really think through the prohibition of tattoos for G-d's people. What is or are the differences, for a Jewish person, exhibiting by wearing a piece of jewelry implying an idea or image or symbol vs having it inked into ones skin? What does Torah have to say about these nuances of use or application in understanding ones Jewish identity?

Isn't ironic how G-d works in our lives even if we have other plans for things that we do. This story touched my heart in a way that I can not explain. Thank you. Is it possible to contact Daniel to be me and my brother's guide. We will go to Israel for the first time next year?

If you get in touch with me via my website (www.getyourjewon.com) I should be able to make the connection.

I give daniel courage for him doing what he did. I won't do what he did. you need to have a lot of strenght and faith in yourself to do what daniel did. good for him. he is an awesome person. his wife should be proud of him.

Nice story. I think that the people who commented on the forbidden tattoo should know, that the Tanya teaches in a compilation of teachings, chapter seven: ... when the sinner repents so earnestly that his premeditated sins become transmuted into veritable merits. this is achieved through repentance out of love of G'd. Besides I think they should better work on foccussing on the good. Since that is the basis of "Love your neighbour as yourself"

For some of us, that includes tattoos that are meaningful to us as individuals. I figure G-d is big enough to sort us all out and do right by us when the time comes, recognizing the different paths to spiritual Judaism and how we interacted with and treated others.

I am an angry Jew.Why ? Because,since the beginning of our people's existence,we have been vilified,persecuted,robbed,raped,tortured,and murdered,by the millions ! We were slaves for 500 years in Eqypt.Very few people came to our aid.When President Rosevelt was told what was really going on in the so called "Relocation " camps,he issued his infamous take no action proclamation.The Pope too,turned a "deaf ear" to the plea's of the Jewish people for help.Basically,the whole world (save a few) turned their backs on the Jews.We have paid dearly for being the "Chosen People",and in my opinion,still are.Don't get me wrong,I am proud to be Jewish,and feel it is the best thing you can be.Yes,I also feel Jews are special,and have many G-D given talents.But because of this,and of persistant,false claims of the Jews blame for the death of Christ,we continue to suffer.I also take issue with those Jews who either hide the fact that they are Jewish,or downplay it completely,almost as if it's something to be ashamed of.Most of the minorities in America stick together,but I don't see that with the Jewish people.It appears to be,every Jew for himself,with the attitude being,I've got my life,family,job,home,etc.why worry about everybody else.I'm safe,I'm secure,what's to worry about ? I say "wake up and smell the bagels",anti-semitisim is alive and well.maybe not in your neighborhood,but it's there.Jews have always been the scapegoat for the worlds ill's,and that hasn't changed.So I ask you,please,tout your Judaism,wear that Star of David,speak up when you hear an anti-semitic remark,stand up for your people. Evil can only survive when too many good people do nothing.I am proud to be a "Jewish Warrior"

It is certainly understandable that you would feel angry....no group on earth has ever experienced anything remotely close to the persecution of the Jews. Anti-Semitism is alive and thriving!....As a Christian, I can find no more logic in blaming the Jews for Jesus` death than blaming myself for slavery....the decisions made by our forbears of hundreds, even thousands of years ago, have no bearing on those living today.....none! Having spent a month in Israel last year, I can say that the Jews there are quite different.....full of Jewish pride and a proud sense of what it means to be Jewish....not so much in the U.S.....of one thing I am certain....the Jewish Prophets of old were right....they all declared that G-D would keep all his promises to restore Israel to their rightful place as His chosen...people AND Nation.....that seemed impossible until 1948.....just keep believing, because what He started.....He will finish!

Hi Lawrence, The most convemient indication is that If you want to learn more about your spiritual roots is just call to your nearest synagogue and ask for the Rabbi in order to expose your situation and ask any doubt. But, as each synagoge has a different approach about the anusim (descendants of sephardic people forced to leave judaism), perhaps this would not be the best option to start. I would like recommend that you contact with Rabbi Juan Mejia (juan@koltuvsefarad.com), he is commited with the people like you willing to learn more about their spiritual roots. I think that he could give you an starter independent approach, as well indicate the different options that you could take regarding the diferent judaism movements, etc For your info, Shavei Israel does not undertake activities in the US. I wish you the best in your the seach process, wellcome!

did it occur in his mind that a Jew should never descecrate his body with a tatoo in the first place?

That's part of the beauty of the story... here's a jew who doesn't know anything really about Torah, doesn't realize the Torah prohibits tattoos. And the very thing he uses to express his pride, although unwittingly going the Torah, God uses to bring him back to Torah. The author assumes the readers know tattoos are against the Torah. That is all part of the amazing providence here, and the irony of the title. The other commenters should chill out

Your explanation is very correct and fair. Thank you for posting insightful good sense.

I was hoping to read at the end of the article that Daniel had his tattoo removed

what ever religion a person is, its up to that person to give it the meaning, he/she wishes to portray. Good luck in finding your way home.

A nice story but why does it not say ANYWHERE that tattoos are EXPRESSLY forbidden in the Torah? This is almost a celebration of violation of that very clear and unequivocal halachah.

Tattoos ARE forbidden explicitly in Leviticus 19:28 and in the Talmud Tractate Makkot 21a. It is disgraceful to G-d for his children to inflict wounds on their bodies (even for positive reasons) as our bodies are containers for our souls and are holy AND are not under our jurisdiction to allow mutilation. The author of our story was ignorant when he had it done and is not to be judged!

I have numerous Jewish Tattoo's.I have several Star of David's,the Torah,Hebrew lettering,etc.I have Hebrew saying's such as "Never Forget","Stand up for your people","Never again",Yitzhak,the Jewish Warrior,and "Guardian of the Faith".I am of a rare breed,a Cohen who is also a Karate instructor.Since I was raised in a non-practicing Jewish home,I got little,or no Jewish upbringing.My parents were Conservative Jews,and my Grandparents were Orthodox Jews.My Grandfather was the "Shamus" of our local Temple.As you stated,our bodies are the containers of our souls.I don't see how marking the outside of our bodies with tattoo's affects the soul inside.I never knew of the Leviticus reference,but probably would of done it anyway.I never claimed that I was the "Perfect Jew",and although I am not a practicing Jew,I still believe.I feel that I can still be a "good Jew"by what I feel in my heart,soul,and mind,about my religion.My faith in Judaism is strong,and unwavering, "Judge not,lest Ye be judged"

My grandson Daniel J Agami also had a Star of David tattoo. Daniel was an observant Jewish soldier that proudly displayed his tattoo. He even had an Israelie Flag over his bunk in Iraq. He was KIA June 21,2007. He was a hero and respected by all who met him for his religious beliefs. Daniel's last mission G-D deployed him to Heaven.

Though we are not suppose to mark ourselves as Jews, I do have a few tattoos. I got my first one when I was about 45 and have in total 4 small ones. I am 61 now but the one that has the most significance to me is my Hebrew name done just above my watch. My Hebrew name is Binyamin, my son's name is Benjamin (so the exact equivalent), so I had it done on his 18th birthday. The other significance to me personally is that I am named after Bainish, my grandfather's uncle who perished in the Holocaust. Bainish was known as Yonkle Binyamin and hence my Hebrew name. So my name, my son's name, and a family Holocaust victim. I may do one more tattoo before I get any older and if so, it will be our ancestral surname which is Reingewirtz (from Staszow, Poland). We are a brotherhood for no matter where we go, it ties us to all others of our faith.

I love this story and how what he thought would bring him confrontation actually led to his own Jewishness.

We were taught tatoos were prohibited in Judaism. What about that?

Well, of course tattoos are forbidden by the Torah. Do you not understand that "Daniel" had not learned Torah and was never given the opportunity or reason to be Mitzvot observant when he was younger? When you ask this sort of question you come across as harsh and judgmental. Is that your idea how to draw people to the love of Torah Judaism? Remember as Pirkei Avot says about Aaron, "Love people and bring them close to Torah."

I did not learn that my ancestry was Jewish until I was in my 40's. My mother explained that our ancestors emigrated from Spain due to the inquisition. She explained that we are crypto Jews, Spaniards who were hidden in the New Mexico/Colorado areas to prevent torture and death. So now comes the hard part,I want to learn what,who and why I am as Jew who never was instructed or explained about my being a Jew. I am in my mid 50's and feel lost. What do I do to learn about my history as a Jew. Any response would be greatly appreciated.

http://www.shavei.org/about-us/activities/?lang=en http://www.kulanu.org/anousim/index.php Kulanu and Shavei Israel are 2 organizations that work with people with Jewish roots who want to return to their heritage. You should probably contact them directly and they can tell you how to proceed and put you in touch with people who can help you in your own area.

I am a fellow Lawrence (my English name) who also came to his Jewishness later in life (46, I was raised in a non-religious Jewish home). My first recommendation would be to find an orthodox congregation in your area and develop a relationship with the Rabbi. If that is not possible start to learn on-line. Aish is a great place to start, www.chabad.org is also wonderful (I particularly recommend anything from Rabbi Moshe New or Rabbi Mendal Kaplan), www.simpletoremember.com (Rabbi Lawrence Kellerman and Rabbi Akivah Tatz are incredible teachers), www.torah.org, www.naaleh.com, and an absolute must is www.rabbiarikahn.com (he is a truly gifted teacher and a wonderful person). As you begin to learn you will discover the overwhelming beauty and truth of the Torah, that the Talmud is the most amazing book of psychology ever written with a depth of human understanding that could only have been inspired by Hashem (litteraly The Name), the Kabbalah through the Zohar and other amazing sources unlocking the secrets of the Universe and all of creation; and commentators such as Rashi, Rambam, Ramban, Onkolos, Ramchal, Iban Ezra, Sfas Emas, Chofetz, Hirsch, Rabbi Monk, and countless others who throughout the generations have added a depth of wisdom to our understand straight from the very Heart of Heaven. But most importantly within all of this, as you journey through the Torah you will find yourself. That is the place where the answer to who you were, who you are, and who you will be resides. That is where you will find your Hebrew name (if you don't already have one), where you will learn about your entire extended Jewish family (Klal Yisrael), and where you will discover your entire Jewish identity. You will also learn about your mission in this life, why you exist, what your purpose in this world is, why all of creation exists (the good and the apparent bad), and how all of creation is connected. On finale word, welcome home, we have missed you, glad you made it. Shalom.

Dear Mr Wade: The previous suggestions are excellent. I would add some reading suggestions: the late Professor Cecil Roth's "Short History of the Jews" and his books on the Inquisition. (My mother's ancestors left Spain - while they still had the chance - and ended up in the Syrian province of the Ottoman Empire.) So again: Welcome home, and best wishes!

Call any synagogue and ask to speak to the rabbi. You'll probably have to tell the receptionist/screener that you need to speak to him about your Jewish ancestory. BTW, I recommend calling the one nearby because you will want to make it easy to attend, and if observant -- to walk to. And don't be afraid, you are doing them a great honor by assisting you.