Religious teachings have played an important role in regulating human sexual behavior since ancient times, especially in matters related to ejaculation, orgasm, and sexual performance. Religions around the world emphasize different aspects of these topics, depending on their cultural context and belief systems. Some religions forbid all forms of sexual activity outside marriage, while others promote sexual activity within certain constraints. In this article, we will explore how religious teachings regulate these three aspects of sexuality, as well as the moral, psychological, and relational consequences of following or violating these guidelines.
Let's start with ejaculation. Many religions consider semen to be sacred and precious, and believe that it should only be released during procreative intercourse between a husband and wife. Masturbation, pornography, and other forms of non-procreative sexual activity are often discouraged or even prohibited. The Quran states, "And those who guard against the faults of sex except from their wives or those whom their right hands possess, for indeed, they are not to blame – but whoever seeks beyond that, then they are the transgressors" Surah Al-Mu'minun (23):5–7. This verse suggests that men should only release sperm during sex with their spouse or slaves, and that any other form of sexual gratification is wrong. Similarly, Hinduism teaches that men should avoid masturbation and save their semen for conception with their wife. The Bible also condemns masturbation, stating that "You shall not commit adultery; you shall not commit sodomy… For in the multitude of dreams there are vanities, and multiplicity of words there is no end. But fear thou God." Ecclesiastes 5:6 These examples demonstrate how religious teachings emphasize the importance of conserving semen for procreative purposes.
Orgasm is another aspect of sexuality regulated by religion. While some religions encourage orgasm as part of procreative sex, others view it as sinful outside of marriage. In Islam, for example, a man must refrain from ejaculating before his wife has reached climax, as this would be considered selfish behavior. Similarly, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS) discourages masturbation and encourages couples to engage in sex only when the woman is ready for orgasm. According to LDS doctrine, "The husband and wife should seek to satisfy each other's needs and desires in order to strengthen their relationship" Doctrine and Covenants 49:15. These guidelines suggest that orgasm is an important part of marital intimacy, but must be balanced with consideration for one's spouse's needs and emotional wellbeing.
Religious teachings often influence sexual performance in terms of foreplay, positioning, and duration. Many religions recommend certain positions or techniques to optimize conception, such as missionary style or coitus reservatus (withdrawal). Catholicism, for instance, promotes the missionary position because it allows for deep penetration and maximizes the chance of fertilization. Similarly, Judaism recommends coitus reservatus during the ovulation period to ensure conception. Some Christian denominations also promote coitus reservatus as a way to prevent pregnancy outside of marriage. These teachings demonstrate how religion can impact sexual practices beyond intercourse itself.
Religious teachings have played a significant role in shaping human sexuality over time by regulating ejaculation, orgasm, and sexual performance. While these guidelines vary between cultures and belief systems, they all emphasize the importance of procreative intercourse within marriage.
Following these rules may come at a cost - some studies show that individuals who follow strict religious guidelines on sex may experience higher rates of depression and anxiety, while others report lower levels of satisfaction in their relationships.
The moral, psychological, and relational consequences of adhering to or violating religious teachings on sex are complex and multi-faceted.
How do religious teachings regulate ejaculation, orgasm, and sexual performance, and what are the moral, psychological, and relational consequences?
Religious teachings on ejaculation, orgasm, and sexual performance vary across different religions and cultures. Some religions promote abstinence until marriage, while others encourage monogamy and fidelity within marriage. Some believe that sex is a natural part of life and should be enjoyed with one's partner, but also require that it takes place only within the bounds of marriage.