Religious doctrines are a set of beliefs that dictate how people should live their lives according to their faith. These doctrines vary from one religion to another but have similarities regarding the role of the body and its desires. In most religions, the body is seen as a vessel for the spirit, and therefore, it is important to keep it under control.
There is often a conflict between physical pleasures and spiritual aspirations. How does religion mediate this tension? This article explores different religious perspectives on sexual pleasure, intimacy, marriage, and celibacy.
Sexual Pleasure
Most religions see sex as a way of procreation and not just for pleasure. Therefore, they encourage monogamy within marriage and abstinence outside of it. They view sex as sacred and reserved for married couples who are devoted to each other exclusively.
Islam permits sex only within marriage and discourages masturbation because it leads to corruption. Catholicism also prohibits premarital sex and believes in the sanctity of marriage as a union between man and woman. Buddhism encourages self-control, including controlling sexual urges, and advocates celibacy.
There are exceptions such as Judaism that supports polygamy and Hinduism that accepts polyandry (a woman having multiple husbands) or polygyny (a man having multiple wives).
Intimacy
Many religions consider intimacy as a vital part of marriage and encourage it.
They limit physical intimacy to certain acts such as kissing and touching.
Christianity teaches that intimacy should be limited to marital vows and avoids any form of arousal before or outside of marriage. Hinduism considers physical intimacy an integral part of married life but advises against excessive passion. Islam sees sex as necessary for procreation but requires spouses to cover their bodies while making love. Buddhism promotes loving kindness without eroticism or sensual pleasures. In contrast, Taoism celebrates intimacy by incorporating it into spiritual practices like yoga and meditation.
Celibacy
Some religious doctrines require celibacy as a way of spiritual purification.
Catholic priests must take vows of chastity and abstain from all forms of sex. Orthodox Christians believe that those who practice abstinence will have eternal bliss with God. Shintoism recognizes sexual desire as a force within the human body but stresses its transience. The Bahai Faith values celibate relationships, which can occur in marriage or not. Some sects of Sikhism also advocate for celibacy, especially among those who are devoted to religion.
Religious doctrines mediate the tension between bodily pleasure and spiritual aspiration through various rules and guidelines. While some religions permit physical desires within marriage, others encourage self-control. Celibacy is seen as a way of achieving spiritual enlightenment, and intimacy is often restricted to specific acts and contexts.
These doctrines aim to balance the physical and spiritual aspects of life to create harmony and fulfillment.
How do religious doctrines mediate the tension between bodily pleasure and spiritual aspiration?
Religious doctrines are often used as a means of regulating human behavior by promoting certain ethical values and norms that guide individuals towards a desired way of living. These doctrines often emphasize the importance of restraint and self-control, encouraging individuals to prioritize their spiritual wellbeing over physical desires and pleasures.