In many religions, such as Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, etc., teachings are given to guide people's behavior and conduct towards certain situations. These teachings can be applied to all aspects of life, including emotional and physical matters. Religious texts often have passages that discuss how to behave in social situations, how to interact with others, and even how to express love and affection. When it comes to bodily sensations, religious teaching is used to moralize them and regulate human behavior. This article will explore some ways in which religious teachings moralize bodily sensations themselves.
Let's start with the concept of "intention." In Islam, for example, intention plays an important role in morality. It means that one should act with pure intentions when engaging in sexual activities. The Quran says, "And those who guard their private parts except from their wives or their rightful spouses - for indeed, they are not blameworthy - but whosoever seeks beyond that, then they are the transgressors" 23:5-7. This verse implies that if a person has good intentions while having sex with his/her partner, it is permissible.
If someone desires other partners outside of marriage, he/she is committing a sin.
There is also the idea of chastity, which refers to the virtue of refraining from sexual immorality before marriage. Religions like Christianity, Judaism, and Islam consider premarital sex as unlawful because it violates the sanctity of the marriage bond. The Bible says, "Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge" Hebrews 13:4. This verse implies that marriage is sacred and that sex should only be shared between two married people.
There is modesty, which emphasizes on covering up body parts. In Islam, men and women must dress modestly so that they do not arouse sexual desire in others. The Quran says, "O Children of Adam! We have bestowed raiment upon you to cover your shame, as well as to be an adornment to you. But the raiment of righteousness, that is the best." 7:26. This means that one should avoid exposing their bodies unnecessarily and instead wear clothes that cover them adequately.
Fourth, some religions teach about self-control when it comes to bodily sensations.
Buddhism promotes celibacy or monastic life as a way to achieve enlightenment. It encourages followers to resist physical desires by practicing abstinence and meditation. The Buddha said, "The disciple of the noble ones considers this rule to be foremost: 'I will control my senses. I will abandon any sensual misconduct.'" Pali Canon.
Religious teaching moralizes bodily sensations themselves through concepts such as intention, chastity, modesty, and self-control. These principles help regulate human behavior and conduct towards sexual activities, whether within or outside of marriage. While these teachings may seem restrictive, they are meant to safeguard individuals from immoral actions and protect society's morality.
In what ways does religious teaching moralize bodily sensations themselves?
According to some religious traditions such as Hinduism, Judaism and Islam, there is an inherent link between body and soul. The body is seen as a vehicle for the spirit, which can be purified through various practices such as fasting and meditation. This way, the physical senses are not only viewed as sources of pleasure but also potential dangers that may lead to addictions and other vices.