The monastery is a place where men and women live together in seclusion for religious purposes, usually according to strict rules.
It has also been noted that there are some instances when intimate same-sex spiritual bonds may develop among the members of the community. These bonds can be observed in many different forms such as friendship, brotherhood, sisterhood, or romantic love. In order to obscure or protect these intimate relationships from outside scrutiny, monastic codes were developed.
One way how monastic codes obscure or protect intimate same-sex spiritual bonds under the guise of celibacy is through the use of physical separation between members of the community.
In some cases, there would be separate sleeping areas for male and female members of the community. This allows members to maintain their intimate relationship while still remaining within the confines of celibacy. Another way is through the implementation of certain rituals and ceremonies which require members to interact physically but without engaging in sexual activity.
Hand holding during prayer sessions or touching during communal meals.
Another way how monastic codes obscure or protect intimate same-sex spiritual bonds is through the imposition of silence. Members who are involved in an intimate relationship with another member are often required to remain silent about their feelings towards one another. This prevents them from being exposed to external scrutiny and criticism. In addition, they are also discouraged from engaging in public displays of affection. It is also common practice for the monastery to have a "curtain" policy where only those who have been granted permission by the head of the community are allowed to visit private areas.
Monasteries also enforce strict rules regarding interaction among members of the community. Members are encouraged to stay focused on their religious duties instead of engaging in idle chit-chat or gossip. They are also not allowed to share personal information such as family history or past relationships. These restrictions prevent members from revealing their true feelings towards each other.
Monasteries may also use symbolism to obscure intimate same-sex spiritual bonds under the guise of celibacy.
Two men may share a bed but remain clothed at all times. Or they may wear identical clothes that hide any physical differences between them. Such practices make it difficult for outsiders to determine if there is anything more than just friendship between the two individuals.
In what ways did monastic codes obscure or protect intimate same-sex spiritual bonds under the guise of celibacy?
While monastic codes were originally intended to enforce strict celibacy among religious figures, they may have had the unintended consequence of obscuring or even protecting intimate same-sex spiritual bonds within monasteries.