Is it okay for a Christian woman to wear a bindi?

TL;DR:

While some may wear a bindi as a fashion statement, it is inseparably tied to Hindu beliefs about spiritual enlightenment, the "third eye," and chakra energy. For Christians, wearing a bindi can create confusion about their faith and imply association with Hinduism, a religion that denies the one true God.

what does the bible say?

A bindi, a decorative mark often worn on the forehead, holds deep spiritual and cultural significance in Hinduism. The Bible calls Christians to avoid practices that align with false religions or could mislead others about their faith. In 2 Corinthians 6:14–15, Paul writes: "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever?" Wearing a bindi, even without believing in its spiritual significance, may convey a public association with Hinduism. Jesus instructed His followers to let their light shine clearly, pointing others to Him (Matthew 5:14–16). Any action that causes confusion about a Christian's allegiance to Christ should be avoided.

from the old testament

Exodus 20:3–5: "You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or serve them." This commandment forbids participation in practices tied to the worship of false gods, which aligns with the bindi’s origins in Hinduism.
Deuteronomy 18:9–12: "When you come into the land that the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not learn to follow the abominable practices of those nations." God warns against adopting spiritual practices from other religions, emphasizing His people’s call to holiness.

from the new testament

2 Corinthians 6:14–15: "For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? What accord has Christ with Belial?" Christians are called to avoid any association with false religious practices, which would misrepresent their faith.
1 Corinthians 10:21: "You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons." This verse highlights the incompatibility of Christian worship with symbols or practices tied to other spiritual systems.
Matthew 5:16: "Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." A Christian’s choices, including avoiding symbols like the bindi, should clearly reflect their allegiance to Christ.

implications for today

In today’s multicultural society, it’s important for Christians to understand the significance of symbols from other religions. While appreciating cultural diversity is valuable, participating in practices tied to false spiritual beliefs can send the wrong message about a believer’s faith. Christian women should seek beauty and identity rooted in Christ, reflecting the truth of the gospel in their actions and choices (1 Peter 3:3–4). By avoiding symbols like the bindi, believers can honor God and maintain a clear witness to His truth.

understand

A bindi is tied to Hindu spiritual beliefs, conflicting with Christian faith.
The Bible urges Christians to avoid symbols linked to false religions.
Christians should reflect their identity in Christ, avoiding confusion about their faith.

reflect

How does your understanding of cultural symbols influence your choices as a Christian?
How do you consider how your actions or appearance might affect others’ perception of your faith in Christ?
How can you reflect your identity in Christ through your daily decisions?

engage

How can we distinguish between cultural appreciation and practices that conflict with Christian beliefs?
What are some practical ways Christians can engage with people from other religions while maintaining a clear witness for Christ?
How can we support others in making choices that honor God and avoid confusion about our faith?