Body Piercing-History

Body piercing is the practice of puncturing or cutting a part of the human body, creating an opening in which jewelry may be worn. Body piercing is a form of body modification. The word piercing can refer to the act or practice of body piercing, or to an opening in the body created by this act or practice. The cultural norms reflected in body piercing are various. They may include religion, spirituality, fashion, eroticism, conformism, or subcultural identification.

The status of body piercing as being a passing fad which is destined to decline or disappear could not be further from the truth. Although it is relatively new to modern western society, it has been around since before recorded history and has been documented in both modern and ancient civilizations from all over the globe.

Not only has body piercing been around almost as long as mankind, it has historically been symbolic of both socio-politic power and physical might in many societies. From the septum and nipple piercings' symbolism of strength among Roman gladiators and warring tribal societies from all corners of the globe to the reservation of belly button rings to only the god like status of the Pharaoh himself in ancient Egypt, body piercing has held a special place in many diverse civilizations spanning thousands of years.

These are only a few of many examples of the enduring nature of body piercing and it's permanent place in human civilization. The next time you hear someone comment that body piercing is nothing more than a "passing fad", you can rest assured that they are quite mistaken and laugh at their rediculous claim. To find out more about the long and fascinating history of body piercing throughout the world, read on!