Ancient Chinese philosophies influenced many aspects of life, including sexuality. From ethics to medicine to religion, sexual beliefs have had an impact on how people think about their bodies, desires, emotions, and actions. Sexuality was an important aspect of Confucianism, Daoism, Buddhism, Legalism, and Mohism. These philosophies shaped cultural norms regarding sex and led to the development of erotica, pornography, and spiritual practices related to love, passion, and pleasure. This essay will explore how these ancient Chinese schools of thought continue to shape modern attitudes towards sex and relationships.
Confucianism
Confucianism is one of China's most influential religions. It emphasizes moral behavior, social order, filial piety, and rituals. According to Confucius, sexual desire was essential for human existence but should be controlled through self-discipline and respect for others. Confucian teachings were based on the idea that sexual relations should occur within marriage between a man and woman.
It also accepted same-sex relationships if they served noble purposes like reproduction or educating young men. The Book of Rites states that "a woman who has intercourse with a female slave" was considered immoral because she would not give birth to children.
Some scholars argue that this passage referred to prostitution rather than homosexuality.
Daoism
Daoism, founded by Laozi, focused on harmony, balance, and living in accordance with nature. It taught that all things should be free and unrestricted. In terms of sexuality, this meant allowing sexual desire to flow without restrictions or guilt. Followers believed that sexual pleasure could be a pathway to enlightenment if done mindfully and responsibly. They advocated naturalness, spontaneity, sensuality, and freedom from societal norms. While there were no explicit rules about marriage or monogamy, many followers lived communally and practiced celibacy. Sexual activity was seen as part of nature's cycle, with women often portrayed as more spiritual and creative than men. This attitude is reflected in literature such as Zhuangzi, where a woman transforms into a giant snake during sex.
Buddhism
Buddhism arrived in China around 500 AD and became a popular religion among nobles and commoners alike. It emphasized selflessness, detachment, and non-attachment to material possessions. Monks and nuns were expected to remain chaste but some laypeople engaged in sexual relationships within marriage. Buddha said that sexual desire was like fire: it must be controlled before it becomes destructive. Buddhist teachings encouraged abstinence from sex outside of marriage while also recognizing its place in life. The Lotus Sutra states that "sexual intercourse may occur between husband and wife for the purpose of producing children."
Tantric Buddhism developed later and focused on using sexual energy for meditation and spiritual growth.
Legalism
Legalism emerged during China's Warring States period and promoted strict laws and punishments to maintain social order. It emphasized hierarchy, authority, and obedience to law. Aspects of legalism influenced government policies regarding sex, including bans on adultery, prostitution, and homosexuality. These views shaped Chinese attitudes towards sexuality until the Qing dynasty (1644-1912) when they were challenged by Western ideas.
Mohism
Mohism was founded by Mozi who believed in universal love, fairness, and equality. He advocated celibacy and rejected traditional gender roles. This philosophy had a significant impact on ancient China's medical practice because of its focus on health and prevention of disease. Doctors were trained to view sex as a potentially harmful activity that could spread illnesses like syphilis or gonorrhea. Sex education was necessary to educate people about these risks, but only through scientific methods rather than erotic literature.
Ancient Chinese philosophies played a crucial role in shaping sexual norms and practices. Confucianism, Daoism, Buddhism, Legalism, and Mohism all offered different perspectives on sex and relationships, influencing attitudes towards marriage, monogamy, and sex outside of marriage. While some views have endured, others have been challenged over time.
These schools of thought continue to shape modern attitudes towards sexuality by promoting self-control, balance, respect for others, and individual expression.
How did sexual philosophy in ancient China influence ethical, medical, and spiritual practices?
Sexual philosophy in ancient China had a profound impact on ethical, medical, and spiritual practices. According to Confucianism, sex was not seen as purely physical but also emotional and moral. Sex was believed to be a way of expressing love between two people and was considered an essential part of marriage. In Taoism, sex was seen as a way of achieving harmony with nature, and the goal was to achieve a balance between male and female energies.