10 Things People Think Are Forbidden in the Bible but Aren’t

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News Uptake

Eating Pork and Shellfish: Leviticus 11:7–8 labels pork and shellfish as unclean, but this is part of the Old Testament dietary laws, not a universal, timeless command.

Wearing Mixed Fabrics: Leviticus 19:19 forbids wearing garments of mixed linen and wool, seen as part of the ceremonial law, not a moral law.

Tattoos: Leviticus 19:28 forbids tattoos, but this is often interpreted within the context of pagan mourning practices.

Working on the Sabbath: Exodus 20:8–11 commands a Sabbath rest, but Jesus clarified that the purpose of the Sabbath was for man’s benefit, not as a burden.

Drinking Alcohol: Proverbs 20:1 warns against drunkenness, not the consumption of alcohol itself. Jesus turned water into wine, indicating moderate use of alcohol is not forbidden.

Women Speaking in Church: 1 Corinthians 14:34–35’s context suggests it addressed specific issues in the Corinthian church, not a universal rule.

Braiding Hair: 1 Timothy 2:9 advises against elaborate hairstyles as part of a call for modesty, not an outright ban. The emphasis is on not letting external adornment be the primary focus.

Playing Sports: There is no biblical passage that directly forbids playing sports; concerns usually relate to idolatry, pride, or neglect of spiritual duties.

Dancing: While some associate dancing with sinful behaviour, the Bible contains positive references to dance as a form of joy and worship.

Listening to Secular Music: The Bible does not explicitly forbid listening to secular music; concerns usually revolve around the lyrics’ content and the heart’s condition.