Definition and Context:
Self-mutilation, also known as self-harm or self-injury, refers to the intentional act of inflicting harm on one's own body without suicidal intent. This behavior can manifest in various forms, such as cutting, burning, or hitting oneself. In the biblical context, self-mutilation is often associated with pagan practices and is viewed as contrary to the teachings of Scripture, which emphasize the sanctity of the human body as God's creation.

Biblical References:
The Bible does not explicitly address modern concepts of self-mutilation, but it does provide insight into related practices and principles. In the Old Testament, self-mutilation is often linked to pagan rituals. For example, in 1 Kings 18:28, the prophets of Baal engaged in self-harm as part of their worship: "And they cried aloud and cut themselves with knives and lances, as was their custom, until the blood gushed over them" . This act was a demonstration of their desperation and misguided devotion, contrasting sharply with the worship of the God of Israel.

Leviticus 19:28 explicitly prohibits self-mutilation in the context of mourning rituals: "You must not make any cuts in your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD" . This command underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of the body, which is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27).

Theological Implications:
From a theological perspective, self-mutilation is seen as a violation of the biblical principle that the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, the Apostle Paul writes, "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body" . This passage emphasizes the responsibility of believers to honor God through the care and respect of their physical bodies.

Psychological and Spiritual Considerations:
While the Bible does not directly address the psychological aspects of self-mutilation, it offers principles for understanding and addressing the underlying issues. Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or emotional pain often drive individuals to self-harm. Scripture provides comfort and hope, affirming the inherent value and dignity of every person. Psalm 139:14 declares, "I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well" .

The Bible also encourages believers to seek healing and restoration through Christ. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus invites those who are burdened to find rest in Him: "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" . This invitation extends to those struggling with self-harm, offering a path to spiritual and emotional healing.

Pastoral Care and Community Support:
The Christian community is called to provide support and guidance to individuals struggling with self-mutilation. Galatians 6:2 instructs believers to "Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ" . This involves creating a compassionate and understanding environment where individuals can seek help without judgment.

Pastoral care may include counseling, prayer, and practical support, encouraging individuals to find their identity and worth in Christ. The church can play a vital role in fostering healing and transformation, helping individuals to overcome self-destructive behaviors and embrace the abundant life promised in John 10:10: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness" .Self-mutilators (1 Occurrence)

Philippians 3:2
Beware of 'the dogs,' the bad workmen, the self-mutilators.
(WEY)

Self-mutilators (1 Occurrence)
Self-mutilators. Self-made, Self-mutilators. Self-pleasing .
Multi-Version Concordance Self-mutilators (1 Occurrence). ...
/s/self-mutilators.htm - 6k

Workmen (52 Occurrences)
... Apostles of Christ. (WEY RSV NIV). Philippians 3:2 Beware of 'the dogs,'
the bad workmen, the self-mutilators. (WEY DBY). James 5:4 ...
/w/workmen.htm - 23k

Mutilators (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Mutilators (1 Occurrence). Philippians 3:2 Beware of
'the dogs,' the bad workmen, the self-mutilators. (WEY NIV). ...
/m/mutilators.htm - 6k

Mutilate (3 Occurrences)
... mutilate themselves. (WEY NAS RSV). Philippians 3:2 Beware of 'the dogs,'
the bad workmen, the self-mutilators. (See RSV). Leviticus ...
/m/mutilate.htm - 7k

Self-made (2 Occurrences)
Self-made. Self-judged, Self-made. Self-mutilators . Noah Webster's Dictionary ...
(DBY). Self-judged, Self-made. Self-mutilators . Reference Bible.
/s/self-made.htm - 7k

Self-pleasing (1 Occurrence)
Self-pleasing. Self-mutilators, Self-pleasing. Self-produced . Multi-Version
Concordance ... Self-mutilators, Self-pleasing. Self-produced . Reference Bible
/s/self-pleasing.htm - 6k

What does the Bible say about self-gratification / self-pleasure? | GotQuestions.org

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