Turkmen people are known for their conservative and traditional views on gender roles, family structures, and social norms. They believe that marriage is a sacred union between a man and a woman, and sex is reserved exclusively for married couples within this union. This belief is rooted in their Islamic faith, which prohibits all forms of extramarital sexual activity.
Despite these strict guidelines, premarital sexual conduct among young Turkmen men and women is becoming increasingly commonplace. In fact, research suggests that up to half of all Turkmen youth have engaged in some form of premarital sex before they get married.
This trend has been attributed to various factors, including urbanization, increased exposure to Western media and cultural influences, and changing economic conditions. While many young Turkmen continue to adhere to their religious teachings regarding sexuality, others may be less inclined to do so due to peer pressure or personal desires. As such, it is important to examine how Turkmen religious teachings regulate premarital sexual conduct, relational ethics, and sexual self-concept.
Religious Teachings
According to Islamic law, sex outside of marriage is forbidden and considered a sin. The Quran states that "forbidden to you (for marriage) are your mothers, your daughters, your sisters, your father's sisters, your mother's sisters, your brother's daughters, your sister's daughters, your foster-mothers who bore you, your foster-sisters, the wives of your own brothers, your adopted-mothers, your step-daughters under your guardianship who took refuge with you, your wives' mothers, your step-sons under your guardianship who were born from your wife to another man - but there is no blame on you if you marry them, provided you give them their dowry according to what is proper."
The Hadith (Prophetic traditions) emphasize the importance of chastity and modesty in one's behavior towards members of the opposite sex. These teachings stress the need for men and women to maintain a distance between themselves, both physically and emotionally, until they are married.
Some scholars argue that these religious laws can be interpreted in different ways depending on the context.
Some Muslim clerics have argued that sexual relations within arranged marriages before the wedding ceremony do not constitute adultery or fornication, as long as the couple remains virgins. This interpretation allows for premarital sex as part of a cultural tradition known as 'sufleh'. In other cases, Islamic scholars may consider any type of premarital sex to be forbidden, regardless of whether it occurs within an arranged marriage.
Relational Ethics
In Turkmen society, relationships outside of marriage are generally discouraged and frowned upon. Marriage is seen as the only acceptable form of intimacy, and dating or courtship rituals are considered unacceptable and even immoral. As such, many young people may find it difficult to express their romantic feelings without fear of social stigma or repercussions.
However, there has been a growing trend towards more open and liberal attitudes towards relationships among younger generations. Some couples choose to live together before marriage, while others engage in casual sex with no intention of committing to a serious relationship. This trend may reflect the changing nature of family structures, wherein extended families are less common and individuals must navigate complex negotiations around love, desire, and sexuality.
Sexual Self-Concept
The way in which Turkmen view themselves as sexual beings is influenced by both personal experiences and religious teachings. Some individuals may feel ashamed or guilty about engaging in premarital sex, while others may see it as a natural expression of their desires.
For those who do not adhere to conservative norms, these issues can be particularly challenging. They may face social pressure from friends, family members, and community leaders who believe that they should abide by traditional values. In some cases, this could lead to harassment, violence, or even honor killings if they are perceived to have brought shame upon their families.
Research suggests that young men and women are increasingly questioning traditional gender roles and sexual mores, leading to greater acceptance of nontraditional relationships and behaviors. This shift highlights the importance of understanding how individual identities intersect with broader cultural and religious beliefs when it comes to sexuality and intimacy.
While Turkmen religious teachings place strict restrictions on premarital sexual conduct, relational ethics, and sexual self-concept, many young people are choosing to challenge these conventions. It remains to be seen whether this trend will continue or whether traditional values will prevail over modern attitudes towards sexuality.
Whatever the outcome, it is clear that there are significant social and cultural implications for how Turkmen view and express their sexuality.
How do Turkmen religious teachings regulate premarital sexual conduct, relational ethics, and sexual self-concept?
Turkmen religious teachings generally consider sex as a natural phenomenon and an important part of life, but they also emphasize its proper limits and boundaries that should be respected by all believers. According to Islamic laws, premarital sex is forbidden unless both partners are married to each other, and even then it can only occur within marriage. Any form of adultery is considered a serious sin punishable by God and society.