The word "ethics" in the title refers to moral principles governing human conduct. Sexual expression means physical acts that people do with their bodies. Mediation means acting as an intermediary between two things or parties. Reconstruction means restoring something that has been lost or damaged. Contexts refer to situations or environments where the issue being discussed takes place. Religious ethics are moral codes derived from religion.
Sexual expression is mediated through reconstructed Roman religious ethics in several ritual contexts in Nova Roma. In these contexts, sexual expression is considered sacred and must be treated with reverence and respect.
In the Ceremony of Consummation, couples are joined together through a marriage ceremony that involves vows and sexual intercourse. The couple is then blessed by the gods for a happy and successful marriage. This ceremony is based on historical Roman customs and includes the exchange of rings and other traditional symbols of commitment. Another example is the Vestal Virgin rite, which requires virginity and chastity until marriage. The Vestals serve as priestesses who perform sacred duties and can only engage in sex after they have completed their term of service. In this context, sexual expression is restricted but also highly valued for its spiritual significance.
In addition to formal rituals like the ones mentioned above, there are informal settings where sexual expression may occur during Nova Roman events such as games, festivals, and feasts. These activities might include dancing, flirting, kissing, hugging, and more intimate encounters.
These actions should still follow the principles of reconstructed Roman religious ethics, including modesty, respect, and consent. Any acts that violate these principles could result in social consequences within the community.
Nova Romans believe that sexual expression has significant meaning beyond just physical pleasure or gratification and should be approached thoughtfully and responsibly within the framework of reconstructed Roman religious ethics.
In Nova Roma ritual contexts, how is sexual expression mediated through reconstructed Roman religious ethics?
Sexuality and eroticism have been part of human life since ancient times, including in the Roman world. The Romans had elaborate festivals and rites dedicated to love, fertility, and sexuality that were intertwined with their religion, beliefs, and cultural practices. As such, sexual expression was not only an individual experience but also a communal one mediated by these religious and cultural frameworks.