Religious ethical systems have been a source of moral guidance for people throughout history, influencing their views on various aspects of life including sexual behavior. These systems have often condemned sexual pleasure and desire as sinful or immoral, emphasizing abstinence and fidelity instead.
Recent research suggests that these attitudes may be changing, with some religions embracing a more positive view of sexuality.
One example is Islam, which has traditionally had strict rules regarding sex and marriage. According to Islamic law, a woman must marry before she reaches puberty, and her husband must be able to provide for her financially. In addition, extramarital sex is forbidden and adultery is punishable by death.
There are also teachings within Islam that suggest that pleasure is not necessarily bad, and that married couples should enjoy each other without shame or guilt. This can be seen in the Quran's verse about "lawful and good," where Allah says, "Let them women also draw near to you with desire and fear, but do not consume their intimate parts until they give themselves to you voluntarily." This verse suggests that intimacy between a man and his wife can be pleasurable and healthy, so long as it is done consensually and within the confines of marriage.
Another example is Christianity, which places an emphasis on chastity and celibacy outside of marriage. The Bible states that "the body is not meant for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord cares for the body." While this passage may seem to condemn all forms of sexual pleasure, many Christians interpret it to mean that sex within marriage is acceptable and even desirable. Some Christian denominations have gone further, encouraging members to use sex as a way to deepen their relationship with God.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) teaches that sexual intimacy between a married couple strengthens their bond and helps them grow spiritually.
Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism also have complex views on sex and sexuality. These religions tend to view sexual pleasure as something that must be controlled and regulated, but some branches allow limited amounts of pleasure within marriage.
Hinduism holds that sexuality is necessary for procreation, but excessive or perverted sexual behavior should be avoided. In addition, some Buddhist sects believe that celibacy leads to enlightenment and encourage monks and nuns to abstain from sex entirely.
Tantric traditions within these religions embrace sexual pleasure and see it as a pathway to spiritual awakening.
Religious ethical systems have historically viewed sexual pleasures and desires as negative or sinful, but recent research suggests that attitudes are changing towards a more positive view of sex. While each religion has its own unique beliefs about sexual morality, there is increasing recognition that sexual pleasure can be enjoyed in moderation and within the confines of marriage.
How are sexual pleasures and desires morally evaluated within religious ethical systems?
Sexual pleasure is an aspect of human life that has been historically and culturally associated with sinfulness, shame, and embarrassment, yet it remains a natural part of our biology. Religious ethical systems have varied widely on how they evaluate sexual pleasures and desires, ranging from total prohibition to permissiveness and beyond.