The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS) has strict sexual rules for its members, which are referred to as "Mormons." These regulations include no premarital sex and only within marriage. Many non-Mormon people may find these norms difficult to comprehend, but they have deep roots in the religion's origins. Joseph Smith founded the faith in the early nineteenth century and declared that God had given him new instructions through revelations recorded in the Book of Mormon. The book states that God intended for man and woman to become one flesh in holy matrimony, a ritual symbolized by sexual intercourse between a husband and wife.
This union is reserved for those who enter into it legitimately, following proper religious ceremonies, including baptism and confirmation. As such, sexual relations outside of marriage are seen as sinful and must be avoided.
This belief system is reinforced through various rites and rituals performed during worship services.
Men hold the priesthood, giving them authority over women and children, while women serve in auxiliary roles as mothers, wives, and sisters. This hierarchy reflects the idea that men should take charge in sexual relationships, and women submit to their husbands and follow the church's teachings. Women also wear modest clothing that covers most of their bodies, emphasizing chastity and purity. Similarly, temple garments worn underneath all clothing remind Mormons of their covenant with God. All of these customs help shape sexual morality, influencing how members view themselves and others in relation to intimacy.
LDS scripture speaks about the body as a gift from God and instructs couples to treat it respectfully. Sexuality within marriage is sacred, a means of procreation and expressing love between spouses. This perspective contrasts with secular culture's focus on pleasure and personal gratification. Instead, Mormons believe that sex should be used exclusively for procreative purposes and within the context of marriage.
The article discusses how the LDS Church uses its traditions and beliefs to control members' behavior and promote their version of sexual morality. Through religious authority, relational hierarchies, and other norms, Mormon communities construct a specific understanding of what constitutes appropriate sexual conduct.
How do sexual rituals in Mormon communities reflect religious authority, relational control, and the shaping of sexual morality?
In Mormon communities, sexual rituals are an integral part of both marriage ceremonies and temple worship. Marriage is considered sacred and a covenant between husband and wife, with sex being seen as a way to express love and commitment within this relationship. The church teaches that sex should only occur within a monogamous marriage, and any deviation from this rule can lead to excommunication from the faith.