I am looking for some help regarding branding and scarring. I know that Tattoos are not allowed, but am not sure about branding (done the same way as cattle with heated metal) or scarification (promoting cut tissue to scar in specific patterns). I would really appreciate a response with some  background or a source.

Answer

In Jewish law, the main determination is whether a particular body art is done for a constructive purpose. Without a constructive purpose is considered making a wound, which the Torah forbids in Deut. 4:9,15.

In terms of your own personal growth and development, if you are considering branding, it is probably not a very good idea, since it may mean identifying with a certain strata of society who may not best represent your own goals and values.

Unfortunately in today's society, kids have simply no limits and you must therefore try to set a boundary for yourself. Since you are going to have to draw the line somewhere, it may as well be here.

You have to ask yourself what are you trying to accomplish with this branding? Is it a call for attention? Is it an expression of something that might be done in a more constructive way?