The Tattooed Rabbi: Buddhism in the Past, Social Media in the Present, and Israel Forever

Can a religious rabbi look like a rock band frontman? Apparently yes—just ask Dovid Braslawsce, a man who proves you can spread Torah wisdom with both a kippah on your head and ink on your sleeves.

Nicknamed the “tattoo rabbi” by fans online, Dovid recently made aliyah from Brooklyn to Israel. Once a Buddhist, then a spiritual seeker, and now a tattooed Chabad rabbi with a disarming smile and sleeves that could rival any ink enthusiast—he’s far from traditional, but all heart.

 

 

From Small-Town USA to the Spiritual Center of the World

Dovid grew up in a Reform Jewish family in a quiet American town—so quiet, one menorah was enough for the entire neighborhood. As a teen, he drifted toward Buddhism, searching for meaning, peace, and probably a decent tattoo artist. But fate, as always, had a sense of humor: in college, he randomly met a Chabad rabbi who didn’t flinch at his tattoos. Instead, he invited him over for Shabbat dinner.

Love, Internet, and an Unexpected Aliyah

His future wife—an Afro-French Jewish woman—slid into his life through an online connection (Tinder would be proud). They eventually decided to move to Israel. At first, Dovid wasn’t sure: “Does Israel really need another rabbi?” Turns out, yes. Especially if that rabbi has a dragon on his shoulder and a Buddha quote on his ribs.

 

 

Tattoos? No Shame, No Regret

Dovid’s take on his tattoos is refreshingly honest:
“I don’t feel guilty. I wouldn’t remove them. They’re part of my journey. They tell the story of who I was and how I got here.”

For him, what’s inside matters more than what’s inked outside. And yes, according to Leviticus 19:28, tattoos are traditionally forbidden in Judaism—but no amount of ink can cover up a sincere soul.

A Rabbi for the Instagram Generation

These days, Dovid is busy on social media, teaching Torah in a down-to-earth tone and connecting with young Jews who crave authenticity over dogma. He’s relatable, real, and not afraid to break the mold—all while honoring his roots.

Thanks to support from Nefesh B’Nefesh, the Jewish Agency, and other partners in aliyah, his story is now inspiring many who never thought a rabbi could look like this—or be this open.

 

 

Did You Know?
Despite popular myths, having tattoos does not disqualify someone from being religious. It’s the heart, not the ink, that matters.

Thinking of getting a tattoo but worried about synagogue side-eyes?
Look at Dovid. Your story deserves to be told—whether it’s in words or in ink.