Chilean society has strict rules regarding premarital sex, but different religions offer unique guidelines to help navigate this taboo subject. Catholicism condemns it entirely while Protestantism allows it within marriage. Pentecostal groups are divided, some emphasizing abstinence until marriage, others allowing premarital sex if the couple is engaged. Jehovah's Witnesses discourage it outside of marriage, but Mormons allow it for unmarried members who follow their church's laws. Buddhists teach that sex should be practiced responsibly. Islamic law forbids it before marriage, except under certain circumstances like rape. Judaism requires chastity before marriage, but Orthodox Jews may engage in "halachically permitted" sexual acts. Hinduism views sex as an act of creation, but Brahmins must marry. Shinto practices celibacy, but other Japanese religions permit it outside of marriage. Indigenous communities have varying beliefs, from complete prohibition to encouraging ritual sex before marriage. The Catholic Church teaches that all sex must remain within marriage, between one man and one woman, and open to procreation. This viewpoint holds that sex is a sacrament and a gift from God.
Protestant churches believe that sex is not sinful, as long as it occurs within marriage. Pentecostals, including Assemblies of God and Seventh-Day Adventists, encourage abstinence until marriage, citing the Bible verse 'Flee youthful lust.' Some Jehovah's Witnesses accept premarital sex within their faith community, though they frown upon dating or kissing. Other branches condemn any sex outside of marriage. Mormons believe sex should only occur between married partners, but exceptions are made for engaged couples if they attend church regularly. They also require chastity and modesty, avoiding pornography and masturbation. Buddhism teaches that sex can bring pleasure, but it should only occur within marriage and with respect for others. Islam permits sex within marriage, but forbids adultery, incest, rape, and bestiality. Jewish law requires marriage before sex, but Orthodox Jews may engage in "halachically permitted" acts like oral sex or touching. Hinduism views sex as part of life and accepts its role in creation. Brahmins may marry once they reach spiritual maturity, and other castes practice arranged marriages. Shinto believes sex is sacred, but Japanese religions vary widely on attitudes towards premarital sex. Indigenous communities have varied rules about sexual behavior, from total celibacy to ritual sex before marriage.
Chilean religious groups offer various perspectives on premarital sex, emphasizing morality, tradition, and intimacy while also acknowledging individual needs and preferences.
What moral and emotional guidance do Chilean religious communities provide for young adults navigating premarital sexual experiences?
In Chilean society, there is no public discussion about premarital sex but rather private discussions between individuals within their families. As such, most people rely on their upbringing to determine what they should do regarding relationships and sexuality. Catholicism dominates religion in Chile, which has strict norms regarding premarital sex, including abstinence until marriage.