Manichean religion was founded in Persia in the third century CE by Mani, who claimed to be a prophet sent by God. It taught that there are two eternal principles, Light and Darkness, which exist from all time and space. Manichaeism believed that evil is inherently real and must be fought against by mankind through asceticism, prayer, fasting, and charitable acts. This essay examines how Manicheans constructed sexual ethics by integrating pleasure, restraint, and spiritual discipline into communal and personal conduct.
The Manicheans saw the human body as a battleground between Light and Darkness. The soul was seen as good, but it could become tainted by physical desires such as lust. Sexual acts were considered sinful because they involved bodily fluids, which were associated with the demonic forces of darkness. Celibacy was highly valued for both men and women, as it allowed them to maintain purity and distance themselves from the material world.
Sex was permissible within marriage as long as it did not involve lust or excessive passion.
To achieve spiritual growth, Manicheans practiced various forms of abstinence, including dietary restrictions and ritual baths. They also engaged in regular confession and repentance to cleanse their souls of sin.
They might refuse meat, alcohol, and other sensory pleasures while seeking spiritual enlightenment. They would also refrain from touching certain objects or people, especially those connected to demons or other negative influences.
Manichean sexual morality emphasized self-control and moderation rather than complete abstinence. It taught that pleasure should be enjoyed within limits, such as within marriage and without indulgence. This included having children, which was viewed positively as procreating life.
Any form of masturbation or extramarital affairs was strictly forbidden.
Manichean religious ethics constructed sexual morality through integrating pleasure, restraint, and spiritual discipline into communal and personal conduct. They believed that sexual acts should be restricted and controlled for the sake of purifying the soul and avoiding temptations from dark forces. Through a combination of ascetic practices and communal support, Manichaeism sought to create a balanced approach to sexual morality that still allowed for intimacy and companionship between partners.
How did Manichean religious ethics construct sexual morality, integrating pleasure, restraint, and spiritual discipline into communal and personal conduct?
Manichean religion considered that there are two divine principles in the world - light and darkness. Light was pure and good, while darkness was evil. The believers needed to avoid both physical and moral pollution from the forces of darkness through abstaining from certain actions, such as eating pork and consuming alcohol. They also practiced fasting and prayer regularly for purification.