Marriage is seen as a sacred union between two people who are committed to each other for life. It is a way for couples to show their love and devotion to one another through various activities such as spending time together, going out, and expressing their feelings verbally. Sexual intimacy is an important aspect of this relationship that can enhance the bond between husband and wife and bring them closer together. For many religions, it is considered a divine obligation that married partners must fulfill regularly in order to maintain their union.
In Christianity, marriage is viewed as a sacrament, which means that it has been set apart from all others because of its importance to God's creation. The Bible teaches that husbands should "love your wives as Christ loved the church," while wives are told to submit themselves to their husbands. This includes loving their bodies and accepting them just as they are. Sexual intercourse within marriage is seen as a physical expression of this love and submission, and it is often referred to as "the conjugal act." According to Catholicism, sex between married couples should be open to life and occur exclusively within the context of marriage. Muslims believe that sexual intimacy is a gift from Allah and should be enjoyed with moderation and restraint, but also without shame or guilt. In Islam, both men and women have equal rights over each other's body, so mutual consent and respect are required before engaging in any form of sexual activity. Hinduism teaches that sexual pleasure is essential for spiritual growth and that married couples should enjoy sex without feeling guilty about it. They encourage couples to explore different positions and techniques to ensure mutual satisfaction.
For Orthodox Jews, sexual intimacy is seen as a way for couples to strengthen their connection and create new life. It is an act that requires patience, communication, and understanding, allowing both partners to experience pleasure without judgement or shame. Mormons view sex as a sacred act that must be saved only for marriage and done in private. Homosexuals are not allowed to marry in the Church, meaning they cannot participate in sexual intimacy with their partner. Buddhists emphasize non-attachment and celibacy, but some sects allow sex within marriage when it does not lead to emotional dependence or addiction. Baha'is believe that sex should be used responsibly and sparingly, but there is no prescribed number of times per week or month.
In addition to religion, cultural factors can also influence how people view sexual intimacy within marriage. Some cultures may see it as a way to satisfy physical desires while others may view it as a means to procreate. Some may believe that sex should always occur after the woman has had her period or during certain days of the lunar cycle. Others may feel that only missionary position is acceptable, while others may have more liberal views on what constitutes appropriate positions. It is important for couples to discuss these issues openly before getting married so that each person understands what is expected and comfortable with in terms of frequency, positions, and other aspects of intimacy.
Sexual intimacy is a complex topic that intersects with various religious beliefs and cultural norms. While every faith will approach it differently, most agree that sexual activity between husband and wife is an essential part of marriage. As such, couples should prioritize this aspect of their relationship and strive to make it fulfilling and enjoyable for both partners.