The word "sexuality" refers to all aspects of human sexual behavior, including thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is often divided into three categories: heterosexual, homosexual, and bisexual. Religious communities have their own beliefs about what is appropriate and what is not when it comes to expressing one's sexuality.
Many Christian groups teach that homosexuality is wrong, while some Buddhist traditions view both heterosexual and homosexual relationships as equal. Islamic law permits heterosexual marriages but prohibits same-gender unions. Judaism does not consider sex outside of marriage acceptable, regardless of gender. Some Native American cultures practice polygamy, which allows multiple partners simultaneously.
In most religions, there are rules for what kinds of physical contact are allowed between couples. This includes kissing, hugging, holding hands, touching skin or hair, and more intimate acts like intercourse. These rules may differ depending on the religion, with some allowing more physical contact than others.
In Orthodox Judaism, men and women cannot even sit next to each other without a barrier between them during prayer services. In Hinduism, certain body parts (e.g., genitals) should be covered at all times, except during procreative activities. The Catholic Church forbids any kind of nonmarital sexual activity, including masturbation and contraception.
Religion also affects how people dress and act in public.
Nudity is considered taboo in many religions, so clothing covers the body fully. Swimsuits, short skirts, and low-cut blouses can cause offense in religious communities.
Some sects allow semi-nude art and sculpture, such as Tibetan Buddhists who revere the human form. Many religions discourage premarital sex and adultery, believing that sex should only occur within a monogamous relationship.
The way religious communities view and express their sexuality varies widely from culture to culture and region to region. It also changes over time, shaped by historical events and changing social norms.
Christianity once condemned homosexuality but now recognizes it as an innate trait rather than a choice. Islamic teachings have been updated to include greater gender equality, while traditional African beliefs emphasize male dominance. Native American cultures have seen both polygamy and monogamy throughout history.
Religion plays a significant role in shaping attitudes towards sex and intimacy. Every community has its own standards for what constitutes acceptable behavior and language around these topics. Understanding these differences helps us appreciate the diversity of our world's many faiths.
How do religious communities differentiate between acceptable and forbidden expressions of sexuality?
Religious communities often have strict rules about what forms of expression are considered appropriate regarding sex and intimacy. These regulations may differ from community to community based on their beliefs and traditions. While some faith groups, such as Islam and Judaism, prohibit all kinds of physical contact between unmarried partners, others, such as Hinduism and Buddhism, promote celibacy for certain periods of life.