Tattooing has a deep historical connection to Christianity, with roots tracing back to the time of Jesus’ crucifixion. While many associate Easter with traditional church services, fasting, and processions, some Christians also observe the season by getting tattoos, particularly in Jerusalem.
The practice of Christian tattooing began soon after Jesus’ death, with early followers using symbols like the fish and the lamb to show solidarity. Romans, who tattooed criminals and prisoners, started marking Christians with the letters “AM” (condemned to work in mines) around the year 30 C.E. Christians, however, soon began tattooing crosses to honor Christ’s martyrdom.
Throughout history, Christian tattooing persisted, especially among pilgrims, soldiers, and peasants. By the 3rd century, Egyptian and Syrian Christians were getting tattoos of fish and crosses. The tradition spread, and during the Middle Ages, Crusaders and pilgrims returning from the Holy Land would often bear tattoos as marks of devotion.
In the British Isles, the Celts embraced tattoos as part of their identity, and by the 700s, even church councils deemed Christian tattoos acceptable. In Italy, shrines such as Loreto’s sanctuary became popular pilgrimage sites where believers could get tattoos as signs of devotion.
Though the practice faded in Europe during the Renaissance, it never disappeared. Today, Christian tattooing continues in places like Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and Loreto, where tattoo artists like Wassim Razzouk and Jonatal Carducci maintain the tradition. Despite challenges, such as restricted access to pilgrimage sites due to conflict, the practice remains a vital part of Christian cultural heritage.
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