In most cultures, there are different belief systems that influence how people view and approach sexual activity. In Japan, one such system is Shintoism, which has had a significant impact on sexual norms in the country. Shintoism emphasizes purity and respect towards nature, but it also recognizes the need to maintain balance between the physical and spiritual realms. This means that while strict sexual asceticism is uncommon, there is still a sense of restraint when it comes to sexual behavior.
Shintoists believe that sex should be approached with care and consideration for others. They understand that sex can lead to physical pleasure, but they see it more as something sacred than just a way to satisfy desires. Sex is viewed as an act of kami, or divine power, and should be treated as such. This means that it is important to avoid acting impulsively and thoughtlessly when engaging in sexual activity.
The idea of "sei" is central to Shintoism's understanding of sex. Sei refers to the energy or spirit behind all things, including human beings. It is believed that through sex, this energy can be transferred from one person to another. When two people have sex, they become joined together physically and emotionally, creating a strong bond. This bond can last even after the sexual encounter ends, making it difficult to disentangle oneself from a partner.
Because of this, many Japanese couples practice abstinence before marriage. In some cases, couples may not even kiss until they are engaged or married. This is seen as a way to preserve the sanctity of the relationship and ensure that it does not become too physical too soon.
Once married, couples are expected to be open and honest about their needs and desires in order to maintain intimacy.
While strict sexual asceticism is rare in Japan, this doesn't mean that sex has no place in society. In fact, many traditional festivals celebrate fertility and sexuality as part of nature's cycles. The Doll Festival and Cherry Blossom Festivals are two examples where sex is celebrated in a positive light. These events emphasize the importance of procreation and the beauty of sexual attraction.
Shintoism's approach to sex also influences how Japanese culture views gender roles. Men and women are often expected to act according to their assigned genders when it comes to dating and romance. Women are expected to be submissive and passive while men should take on a more active role in pursuing relationships. While these gender norms are changing, there is still pressure for both men and women to conform to certain expectations.
Shintoism's approach to sex highlights the need to respect others and ourselves. It recognizes that sex can be pleasurable but emphasizes caution and responsibility when engaging in it. As such, it offers an interesting contrast to Western ideas about sex and provides insight into how different cultures view intimacy and relationships.
Why is strict sexual asceticism uncommon in Shinto practice, and what implications does this have for cultural and religious understandings of sexuality?
Shintoism is an ancient religion that originated in Japan. It has no formal doctrines or creeds and does not have strict guidelines regarding sexual behavior. The practice of celibacy is highly regarded as a spiritual discipline but is rarely seen as an ideal state of being. Sexual asceticism is generally considered a personal choice and may not be viewed as a necessary component of religious devotion.