Andy: "Aren't Jews Not Supposed To Get Tattoos?"

Andy, 22

I have recently been back and forth contemplating covering up my second tattoo, the Hebrew script on my right arm.

What is ironic is that it is my tattoo with the most concrete meaning. We are constantly encouraged to get super meaningful tattoos to avoid regretting them later, and while I do not regret getting the tattoo at all, I do sometimes regret the placement.

I had wanted the tattoo since probably 2016 after receiving a bracelet etched with the Hebrew phrase for “be strong and courageous.” My dad sent it to me as a “surprise” after asking to me to send him my wrist measurement. It was one of those thin bendable silver bracelets that will eventually crack over time, especially if you wear it every single day, so when it did break I decided I wanted the phrase tattooed on me.

“Chatzak ve’ematz” is a commonly used phrase that Jewish people say to other Jews before facing a difficult task. It’s also a lovely reminder of my Jewish heritage and I am usually happy to explain its meaning because I am proud of the fact that I am Jewish. What I am not so happy to do though, is answer the question “aren’t Jews not supposed to get tattooed?” To which I wish I could reply “how is that any of your damn business,” but nobody wants to be snapped at by their bartender and I need the tips, so I usually laugh at the ignorant pass. I have tried giving the canned answer of “I might be going to hell, but at least I look cool before I do,” but I have gotten the swift reply “don’t Jews not believe in hell?”

I have been inserted into conversations about religion that I have not consented to be in, usually where a non-Jewish, often male, speaks on my behalf. I know my father has commented on my safety wearing my heritage on my arm. I love the meaning and the story behind it, but sometimes I just wish I could copy/paste it somewhere else. Somewhere that nosey strangers cannot be behooved to comment on how I am not “really Jewish.”

I have been thinking about getting it covered with a snake to complete my half sleeve, I have even talked to Alex Sabur, the artist who did my pomegranate, if he would take on the project. The only thing holding be back (other than living on the aforementioned lack of tips) is that the message “be strong and courageous” is a reminder I find myself needing quite often.

I often wonder if I would regret regretting the tattoo if I did cover it. I have decided to give the idea a little time. I want to enjoy the time I have with my Hebrew script, even if it culminates in a beautiful cover up.

Tattoos are not as permanent as we think. As we change as people, there is no rule that says our tattoos cannot evolve with us.

There is no award at the end that says “I have never had tattoo removal, never had a cover-up, I haven’t regretted one of my tattoos.” The award at the end is the opportunity to express yourself through the art you put on your body.