In many religious traditions, there is a strong emphasis on the idea that physical pleasure must be subordinated to spiritual goals. This can manifest in various ways, from the promotion of celibacy and abstinence to the elevation of asceticism and self-denial. In this essay, I will explore how some religions view bodily pleasure as something to be avoided or minimized, and why they do so.
One way in which religion devalues bodily pleasure is through its teachings about sexuality. Many religions condemn sexual activity outside of marriage, and even within marriage, it may be seen as a necessary evil rather than a positive experience.
The Bible says that "the wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does" (1 Corinthians 7:4), implying that women's bodies are not their own but belong to their husbands. Similarly, Islamic law prohibits all forms of premarital sex, while Judaism mandates strict rules governing intercourse between married partners.
Another way in which religion devalues bodily pleasure is through its emphasis on asceticism. Monks and nuns in Catholic and Buddhist monasteries, for instance, often take vows of chastity, rejecting any kind of physical gratification in favor of devotion to God or enlightenment. In Hinduism, some practitioners follow a path of renunciation called sannyasa, where they abandon worldly pleasures and live a life of poverty and solitude. These practices aim to free one from attachment to the material world and focus entirely on spiritual pursuits.
Religion also teaches that earthly desires should be subordinated to higher goals, such as the desire for salvation or divine union. This can lead to a sense of guilt or shame when engaging in activities like eating or sleeping, which are viewed as distractions from more important pursuits. Some Christian denominations, for example, believe that food should only be consumed out of necessity and without enjoyment. Similarly, many Eastern religions, including Hinduism and Buddhism, emphasize the importance of meditation and contemplation over sensual indulgence.
There are also arguments against this viewpoint. Critics argue that religious teachings about sexuality and pleasure can contribute to repression and harmful attitudes towards sex. They point to high rates of sexual abuse within certain religious communities, as well as cases where abusers use religious language to justify their actions.
Some scholars argue that denying physical pleasure can actually hinder spiritual growth by making it harder to connect with the body and emotions.
While religion does place a strong emphasis on spiritual aims over bodily pleasure, it is not always clear whether this approach is beneficial or harmful. It depends on the individual's perspective and how they interpret these teachings in practice.
In what ways does religion devalue bodily pleasure in favor of spiritual aims?
Religion often promotes a sense of abstinence from physical pleasures and focuses on spiritual pursuits instead. This can be seen through various practices such as fasting during religious festivals, avoidance of certain foods or activities that are considered sinful, and emphasis on celibacy or marriage within one's faith community.