Is Deodourant Wrong?

What a title you say! Indeed what a title. 😀 I have had some very fascinating conversations with various people and realized that there are varying opinions on the topic of personal hygiene. It has intrigued me to say the least and so I have decided to try compiling a blog post on it. 

The actual definition of personal hygiene is "behaviors that can improve cleanliness and lead to good health (www.cdc.gov/health/about).

Before I dove into this topic, I considered the fact that the Christian life boils down to the root of love. In any given discussion, point of view, etc., it is always essential to be gracious, humble, and understanding of the other person's side. And so, with that in mind, join me on a little journey of discovering and looking into a variety of views. 

I have met people who wear a heavy scented perfume that fills a room and lingers long after they are gone. They often enjoy fashion and dressing up, which in their opinion,  includes a nice smell. I believe it is essential for these people to remember the people sitting beside them in church lest they create headaches or wound their brother with offense. 

On the other side of the ditch, I have met people who could use a shower and some deodourant in order to get rid of a repulsive sweaty smell. These people also should remember that they are their brother's keeper and would do well to make church or any other event a nice experience for them. It is not prideful or wrong to take care of our bodies. I mean, we trim finger nails, comb our hair, and wipe our noses too.

So the question is, what is the middle ground? As Christians we are to be salt and light on the earth. We are also called to be a sweet fragrance to God with our thanksgiving. Personal hygiene is not mentioned in the Bible much beyond Leviticus (correct me if I'm wrong!) and there it mostly refers to washing, cleansing, etc. 

Initially, I concluded that nowhere in the Bible do I find scents mentioned as being needed or essential, but I did conclude that their use actually occured in a number of places. Frankincense and myrr were given to Jesus as gifts. Incense was burned in the temple. The women brought spices to Jesus' tomb and the list goes on. In a simple conclusion, scents are beautiful and can be used to honour God if used appropriately. Now, on the other hand, it is biblical not to offend our brother. Which leads me to believe, that if whatever scent I am wearing, sweat or excessive perfume, offends or triggers allergies in whoever is around or beside me, it is wrong. 

Worship services, and life in general, should be intentional and places where we can focus. Anything that distracts should be taken away. 

So, if you need to get rid of a strong body odor, find something that works well for you and honours the others around you. I know people who use natural products, store products, baking soda, and the list goes on! And if you are someone who enjoys a heavy scented perfume of some kind, also remember the dear souls you go to church with and spare them a headache. 

Much love to all and wishing you a fresh, beautiful day! 🙂