The concept of "religious text" refers to a collection of documents that form part of an established religion's canon, scripture, or doctrine. Religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, Taoism, etc., have their own set of religious writings. These writings include stories about God, teachings about moral behavior, rules for worship, prayers, hymns, etc.
Some of these texts also discuss gender roles and expectations around sexual morality. In this regard, many religions consider men and women to be fundamentally different from one another regarding their sexual desires, needs, and behaviors.
The Bible says, "Women are to submit themselves to their husbands," while the Quran states, "Men have authority over women because Allah has made the one superior to the other." The Tanakh says that "a woman should remain silent in church" or "not speak too much." Such beliefs have shaped societies' erotic expectations and conduct.
First paragraph
Sexuality is a natural human urge, but it is often suppressed by society due to cultural norms and religious beliefs. Religion teaches people how to control their sexual feelings and express them appropriately within marriage. As a result, the erotic experience between partners must follow specific guidelines. While sex is considered sinful outside marriage, it is essential inside it.
The Song of Songs in the Old Testament describes love-making in vivid detail, saying, "Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth!" and "I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine." This erotic poem shows that married couples can enjoy intimacy without guilt. Similarly, Islamic law encourages sexual pleasure within marriage as long as both parties consent. It even suggests ways for spouses to achieve satisfaction through various positions and techniques.
Adultery and homosexual acts are strictly prohibited.
Second paragraph
Religious texts also portray gender roles around sexual desire. Men are seen as stronger and more aggressive than women when it comes to sex.
The Bible says that men have physical needs and should satisfy those needs with their wives. On the contrary, women are considered weaker and need protection. Thus, men must respect their partner's wishes while initiating sex.
The Quran instructs men not to force themselves on women if they reject them. These gendered ideas shape sexual expectations in different cultures. In some parts of Asia, women are expected to be submissive during intercourse because they view it as a duty towards their husbands. In other places, men take advantage of their dominant role by having extramarital affairs or abusing women.
Third paragraph
The religious views on sexuality have influenced people's erotic experiences beyond marriage. They have created an image of masculinity and femininity that dictates how men and women should behave during sex.
Islamic teachings state that a man must always initiate sex and be confident about his desires. Women, on the other hand, should be passive and obedient. Such attitudes lead to problems like rape culture, where men feel entitled to satisfy their urges regardless of whether the woman agrees or not.
These beliefs discourage open communication between partners regarding their needs and preferences. Many couples struggle to talk about their wants outside what is accepted socially or morally. This lack of dialogue can cause frustration and resentment within the relationship.
Fourth paragraph
Religion plays an essential role in shaping people's sexual behaviors, expectations, and conduct. It provides guidelines for intimacy and encourages spouses to express their desires within marriage.
It also creates misogynistic stereotypes that limit women's freedom of choice. As a result, many women suffer from emotional and physical abuse due to unhealthy gender norms. To break free from this cycle, society needs to re-examine its views on sex and gender roles. Both men and women need to learn to communicate honestly and respectfully with each other without fear of judgment or retribution.
How does gendered representation of sexual morality in religious texts shape erotic expectations and conduct?
Sexual morality is often defined by specific guidelines set forth by religious traditions, which may vary across different cultures and religions. In some cases, these guidelines are based on specific scripture passages that outline what types of sexual behaviors are acceptable and unacceptable according to divine will. These guidelines can shape how individuals understand their own sexuality and sexual desires, as well as how they interact with others sexually.