Is it a Sin to Dance?

by James Alan Brown

The question suggested by this title has often been posed to me when a school or community dance is planned. Usually the one posing the question has a son or daughter who desires to attend the function in question. In all things we should let the Bible be our guide (Psalm 119:105) rather than our emotions or preconceived notions (Jer 10:23). So, let us examine what the Bible has to say on this subject.

There are two types of dancing that are mentioned in the Bible. The first is that in which David, Miriam, and others performed as a jubilant type of jumping, skipping, and promenading before the Lord (2 Sam 6:14; Ex 15:20). The second is that in which individuals engaged for pure pleasure. It was either done as a show for others as with Herodias (Matthew 14:6) or with another for immoral purposes (Ex 32:19,25).

The New Testament speaks to this latter type of dancing in Romans 12:1-2; 1 John 2:15-17; and Galatians 5:19-21. This type of activity is sensual, fleshly, and worldly. It does not belong to those who have given their bodies as a sacrifice to the Lord. As such, it belongs in the realm of sinful activities. The word "revellings" in Galatians 5:21 is translated from a word which referred to pagan dances (which are much like our "modern" dances).

Years ago the Federal Bureau of Investigation published a tract entitled Six Ways By Which Our Young People Get Hurt. They were not talking about getting hurt as when one sprains an ankle or such, but as when a young person goes beyond the boundaries of decency and morality. The number two cause listed in that tract was dancing.

In the dance, physical contact between the opposite sexes has been (and still is) one of the main features. However, popularity is also another primary motive. Little boys, who should still be chasing rabbits and baseballs, are made to feel deficient if they do not participate. Little girls, who should still be playing house, have become the victims of a perverted adult environment that is more interested in worldliness (i.e., sin) than it is in the innocent youth who are being brainwashed into situations that contribute to today's immorality.

Why not contribute to the moral climate of today's young people and encourage activities which prepare them for eternity? They have enough problems with activities which appeal to the flesh. Bring your own children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Eph 6:4). Do not let your children attend dances.