My issue isn’t whether general authorities say we shouldn’t have tattoos. They are entirely free as the church’s governing body to create policy and guidelines. I’m just saying that this particular scripture, which is commonly used to justify the policy/guideline, means something else than what it is used for.

And where would this scripture by found Kim? As a person who enjoys a motorcycling hobby and the events, gatherings and culture of that hobby this discussion intrigues me. I can see the merit of your point regarding the use of 1 Cor for this purpose. However there has been a large body of comments from the pulpit at General Conference in reference to this matter. As recent conference addresses are vetted by church leaders for such points of doctrine I am interested in your views. I am not a holder to the mighty stick of Bruce. As we discussed many years ago it is published by Deseret, not the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Joe,

My thoughts were not being dismissive of the prophets message about tattoos. I was being dismissive of using 1 Corinthians 6:19 to justify that message.

My comments on “pseudo-hypocritical prohibition” had nothing to do with tattoos.

Regarding the bible itself explicitly prohibiting tattoos, I would be happy to be pointed to a scripture in the Bible (not from the Law of Moses, which has since been fulfilled) that explicitly prohibits tattoos.

However, it is very common to read scripture with a view somewhat different than the original intent. To me that is what makes scripture and living prophets so wonderful. They are not static they are true and living. We liken the scriptures to our time and our circumstances and prophets aid us in this task. As times change our application of doctrine and principles may change.

Also, sometimes prophets have difficulty conveying God’s message. They see through a glass darkly. Prophets may see some worldly influence in tattooing we should avoid and they express that the best they can. Their message may not be 100% consistent or logical but it is unwise to disregard their counsel lightly.

To call it a pseudo-hypocritical prohibition seems a bit off the mark to me. The bible itself does explicitly prohibit tattoos.

That said, we should not be on witch hunts or make those with tattoos feel embarrassed about past choices. Having a tattoo is not an unforgivable sin and is quite common even in the church. Many people with tattoos do in fact carry temple recommends as well. In fact it may not in fact be a sin just not best on the good, better, best continuum.