Polyamorous relationships are becoming increasingly more commonplace in modern society, but there is still much social stigma surrounding them. Many people believe that this stigma can be attributed to the fact that polyamory goes against traditional values. Specifically, they point to the Judeo-Christian belief system, which has historically held that monogamy is ideal.
This viewpoint fails to consider how other religions may view polyamory, and whether or not these views are rooted in symbolic ideals. In this article, I will explore the potential connection between religious rejection of polyamory and symbolic ideals of unity, purity, and singular devotion.
The Christian perspective on polyamory
In Christianity, marriage is considered a sacred covenant between a man and woman, and adultery is strictly forbidden. This implies that marriage should be monogamous.
Christians often emphasize the importance of remaining pure until marriage, and maintaining chastity once married. Polyamory would seemingly conflict with both of these values.
It's important to note that different denominations have varying perspectives on sexuality and marriage. Some Protestant sects, for example, allow polygamy in certain circumstances. While most Christians do not condone polyamory, there are some who advocate for it as an alternative lifestyle choice.
Hinduism and polyamory
Hinduism has no specific doctrine regarding sexual ethics, so it does not forbid polyamorous relationships. Instead, it encourages practitioners to find their own path to enlightenment, which may include any number of partnerships. Hindus also believe that all living things are interconnected, meaning that they see human relationships within a larger context of interdependence. This perspective can lead to greater tolerance for multiple relationships, as long as each partner is treated with respect and compassion.
Buddhist views on polyamory
Buddhism similarly does not have strict rules regarding sex or relationships. It teaches that attachment to any one thing or person leads to suffering, and promotes detachment from worldly desires. For this reason, some Buddhists may view polyamory as an opportunity to cultivate non-attachment and mindfulness.
Others may argue that polyamory would only increase attachment to multiple people, thus counteracting the goal of detachment.
Islamic beliefs about polyamory
Islam condemns adultery and considers it a sin punishable by death. As such, many Muslims consider polyamory to be wrong.
Some scholars argue that monogamy is not necessarily a requirement of Islamic law, but rather an ideal. They cite verses in the Quran that allow men to marry up to four wives at once, and suggest that this could be interpreted to mean polygyny is acceptable. Others point out that these verses were specific to certain situations during the time of Muhammad, and do not apply universally.
To what extent is the religious rejection of polyamory rooted in symbolic ideals of unity, purity, and singular devotion?
Polyamory is the practice of having multiple romantic relationships at once with the consent of all parties involved. The term "poly" means many and "amorous" means loving or having sexual relations, so polyamory literally translates as having many loves.