Religious beliefs about sex have shaped identities for centuries, from the ancient Greeks to modern times. Religions such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam prescribe specific behaviors that may influence how people view themselves and others sexually. These beliefs can impact everything from dating to marriage to family life. This is especially true in countries where religion is deeply embedded in society, like Iran, India, Saudi Arabia, and Nigeria.
Some religious groups frown upon premarital sex, while others promote it within marriage. Some religions encourage polygamy, polyandry, or incest. But even those who support monogamous marriages often emphasize male dominance or female submission. In conservative cultures, women's bodies are treated differently than men's bodies. Dress codes, public behavior, and attitudes towards homosexuality may be governed by strict rules. Religious teachings also shape ideas about gender roles and sexual pleasure. Some faiths deny the existence of same-sex relationships altogether; others permit them but stigmatize them as unnatural or immoral. The Catholic Church has long condemned contraception, abortion, and LGBTQ rights. Meanwhile, Hinduism accepts all forms of sexual orientation and believes that everyone deserves a fulfilling relationship.
Because sex is integral to human nature, religious control over it shapes our collective identity through group norms. It affects how we view ourselves and others, including the way we communicate with each other. It impacts social institutions such as marriage and education. It influences laws and policies that govern morality, healthcare, workplace relations, and family planning. While many people question traditional values, they still seek guidance from clerics on issues related to love and intimacy. As a result, religious views can drive political debates, social trends, cultural customs, and individual choices. This article will explore how religious beliefs have shaped societies across time and place.