Many religions include specific guidelines for how people are supposed to behave sexually. Some religious traditions forbid all forms of sexual activity outside of marriage. Others allow sex between married couples but require that it take place within certain boundaries.
Some Christian faiths teach that sex is acceptable only if both spouses are fertile and procreation may result. In such cases, any form of birth control would be considered sinful. Other religions allow for limited expressions of intimacy but prohibit certain practices, like foreplay. Religious beliefs about sexual behavior can have significant effects on long-term partnerships. In some situations, they cause stress and conflict because one partner wishes to follow them while the other does not.
Let's say one member of a couple is Muslim and follows Islamic law, which requires that she cover her body when out in public, never touch another man, and remain unmarried until age 18. Her partner is nonreligious and does not agree with these restrictions, and he wants to engage in sexual activities that violate them. As time goes on, their differences grow more difficult to bridge. The relationship becomes tense and eventually ends, though both partners still care deeply for each other. Similarly, many couples who practice Judaism believe that sex must occur exclusively within the context of marriage. If one spouse has an affair or engages in premarital sex, this might constitute grounds for divorce according to Jewish tradition. Such rules can lead to feelings of shame and guilt, even among people who otherwise enjoy healthy relationships.
In addition to having clear rules about what is permissible, many religious traditions also include detailed instructions for how married couples should behave during intercourse.
Christianity encourages wives to submit themselves fully to their husbands during physical intimacy. Some Orthodox Jews hold that women may only experience orgasm through heterosexual penetrative intercourse and therefore forbid all other kinds of stimulation. These strictures can make it challenging for couples to achieve mutual satisfaction or explore new forms of pleasure. They can also cause resentment and jealousy between partners.
Some religions encourage open communication and experimentation around sexuality, allowing couples to discover new ways to express themselves physically while keeping faith-based principles in mind. In such cases, there are fewer rules but a greater emphasis on respectful communication. Couples can set boundaries together as they learn about each other's desires and needs. This approach helps to build trust and intimacy, even when those involved have differing belief systems. It allows them to continue exploring their spiritual journeys without fear of judgment or rejection.
How does religion affect intimacy in long-term partnerships?
Religion can have both positive and negative effects on intimacy in long-term partnerships. On one hand, it provides couples with a common ground for communication and a sense of shared purpose that can strengthen their relationship. Religious beliefs and practices may also help people build trust and respect each other, as they involve mutual commitments and sacrifices.