A bridegroom was arrested and taken into custody by police officials just before the wedding ceremony was to be performed. The bride went to the police station and pleaded with the officials to let him free for two hours to perform the wedding ceremony or do it at the police station. The officials rejected her request. The groom was a leader of an ‘illegal gang’ that was operating in the city, involved in kidnapping, extortion, and even murder. At least fifty youths have joined the gang and have tattooed – ‘illegal’ – on their necks as a mark of loyalty and identity. (NDTV 14 March 2026)
The name: This gang has chosen a name that reveals their characteristics. Their involvement in all activities that are not in accordance with the law of the land. The name also specifies the intention, motivation, and action of the gang. Like the citizens of Babel, they wanted to create a name for themselves. (Genesis 11:4) Not by doing good, but by doing what is evil, wicked, and illegal.
Wickedness: These young men have become comfortable following the counsel of the wicked, taking a stand with sinners, and sitting with mockers, thus rejecting God’s Law and requirements. (Psalm 1:1-3) Instead of delight, there is hatred towards God’s Law, justice and righteousness. Instead of daily meditation, there is mockery, criticism, and ridicule of the Holy Laws of the Lord.
Pride: Instead of being ashamed, they are proud of their intention, vision, and gang loyalty, hence wear tattoos (instead of a jewelry piece) on their necks. “Therefore, pride is their necklace; violence covers them as a garment.” (Psalms 73:6) Arrogance and cruelty are in their thoughts, words, attitude, and deeds. Tragically, they harm themselves and society.
Choices: Humans are given freedom to choose. God intends that humans choose what is good, right, and righteous. Nevertheless, most choose what is illegal, which means contradictory to God’s holiness. Such choices would affect them, their families, communities, societies and nations. The bride made a foolish choice as she had known the groom for six years.
Do I delight in God’s Law and always intend to please Him?