The Bible does not directly address the practice of massage therapy or getting a massage. However, there are some biblical principles that can provide guidance for Christians thinking about massage. Here is an overview of what the Bible has to offer on this topic:
The Body as a Temple of the Holy Spirit
The Bible teaches that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). As such, we have a responsibility to care for and honor God with our bodies. Getting regular massages could be part of caring for the body God has given us. However, any massage practitioner or therapy should align with Christian values of modesty and avoiding sexual immorality. Christians should be careful to avoid any massage parlors that may be linked to prostitution or sexual services.
Modesty in Touching
The Bible emphasizes the importance of modesty, particularly when it comes to physical touch between unmarried men and women. When getting a massage, it is wise to consider whether the massage aligns with modesty and avoiding potential temptation (1 Timothy 2:9, 1 Peter 3:3). This may mean getting a massage from someone of the same gender, keeping necessary draping in place, or avoiding certain types of massages. Christians should aim to keep massages therapeutic and non-sexualized.
Meditation and Relaxation
Massage therapy often incorporates elements of meditation and relaxation. While these can be beneficial, Christians should be cautious about any meditative practices that empty the mind. Biblical meditation focuses on Scripture, God’s goodness, and actively engaging with God (Psalm 1:2, Psalm 119:15-16). If done carefully, relaxation during massage can be consistent with releasing burdens to God (Psalm 55:22, Philippians 4:6-7). But Christians should avoid any meditation or visualization techniques that conflict with biblical values.
Seeking Medical Help
In certain cases, massage therapy can be helpful for managing pain and other medical conditions. The Bible encourages seeking medical help in appropriate ways when we are sick (Matthew 9:12, James 5:14). However, Christians should be cautious about any massage therapies that claim to provide miraculous healing. God can and does heal, but Scripture warns about false miracles (Matthew 24:24). Any massage treatments should be discussed with a doctor to determine medical legitimacy.
Avoiding Alternative Medicine Practices
Some massage therapies incorporate Eastern mysticism, spiritual energy, or occult practices that directly violate biblical values. Examples would include Reiki massage, energy healing, or therapies based on Yin/Yang philosophy. Even when these practices claim medical benefits, Christians should avoid partaking to prevent opening doors to demonic influence (Deuteronomy 18:9-12). Sticking with evidence-based massage therapies is wise.
Considering Motives and Excess
As with many choices, Christians getting massages should examine their motives—is this to pamper the body or for legitimate medical reasons? The Bible warns against excess and glutony even in good things (Proverbs 21:17, Philippians 3:19). Regularly indulging in lavish massages could feed unhealthy vanity. However, modest massages for therapeutic purposes can be prudent stewardship of the body God has given. Careful discernment is needed.
Avoiding Public Bathing Massages
In some cultures, massages are traditionally given in a public bathing context. However, public bathing situations can make it very difficult to maintain modesty and avoid sexualization. Given these concerns, Christians should exercise caution regarding massage therapies tied to public bathing contexts. Private massage treatments are generally more appropriate to uphold Christian values.
Asking God for Discernment
As with any gray area, Christians should ask God for discernment about massage treatments. Praying for wisdom and listening to the guidance of the Holy Spirit allows God to clarify anything that may be inappropriate or unwise (James 1:5, Romans 12:2). Christians can then make decisions with confidence, knowing they are honoring God with their bodies.
Focusing on Inner Renewal
While massage may have some physical benefits, Christians should remember that God is primarily concerned with the condition of our hearts and inner lives. External treatments can never substitute for the inward renewal and transformation God wants to bring (Psalm 51:10, 2 Corinthians 4:16). Keeping this focus helps maintain proper perspective if considering massage therapies.
Considering Motives of the Masseuse
Because massage involves intimate touch, Christians should consider the motives and character of any massage practitioner they utilize. Are they operating with integrity, professionalism, and ethics that respect appropriate boundaries? Or are there red flags that raise concerns of inappropriate behavior? Although not always possible to discern, being prudent about who provides massage is wise (Proverbs 4:23).
Stewarding Resources Responsibly
Massage treatments can be expensive, especially on an ongoing basis. Christians should be mindful of proper stewardship of financial resources in determining whether massage expenditures are reasonable and not wasteful (Luke 16:10-11, Ephesians 5:15-16). Overspending on indulgent massages may not honor God.
Summary
The Bible does not directly prohibit massage therapy, but gives principles to guide decisions. Christians should aim for modesty, avoid sensuality or inappropriate meditation techniques, be cautious about claims of miraculous healing, verify medical legitimacy, avoid massage therapies tied to public bathing contexts, only utilize practitioners who respect boundaries, and steward resources carefully. With wisdom and discernment, massage can potentially be a sound way to care for the body God has given us. Above all, our focus should be on honoring God, not pampering the fleshly body.