Sex is an integral part of marriage, which often forms the basis for procreation.
It can also be seen as an act of love, a way to express emotions and desires, and a source of physical pleasure. Religious beliefs often place restrictions on when, where, how frequently, and with whom people can have sex in order to maintain chastity, purity, fidelity, faithfulness, morality, integrity, modesty, decency, and virtue. These rules regulate marital sex as a moral obligation rather than mutual pleasure. Marriage, which traditionally involves a lifelong commitment between a man and a woman, typically involves some degree of monogamy and exclusivity, although there are exceptions. The Bible describes this commitment as a covenant, which requires loyalty, devotion, honor, obedience, faithfulness, trust, and respect towards one's spouse. In Islam, polygyny is allowed but requires consent from all wives, who must give equal treatment. This means that men cannot abandon or neglect their responsibilities to any wife without justification.
In Judaism, sexual activity between married partners is encouraged within certain parameters to ensure fertility and intimacy. But extramarital relationships (including adultery) are forbidden because they undermine the sanctity of marriage.
Homosexual behavior is considered a sin in both Christianity and Judaism, while Islam condemns all same-sex acts.
These religious rules emphasize the importance of abstaining from premarital sex (fornication), pornography, masturbation, adultery, incest, rape, bestiality, voyeurism, exhibitionism, prostitution, and other forms of non-traditional sexual behavior. They also teach that sexual desire should be controlled through self-discipline, avoiding lustful thoughts, and limiting physical contact with members of the opposite sex outside of marriage. These expectations shape attitudes towards sex and relationships, making them less open and uninhibited.
In Hinduism, marriages are seen as sacraments and require rituals such as garlands, fire, and water. Partners should not touch each other before marriage and remain separate for several days after consummating the union. Muslim brides may cover themselves with a hijab during intercourse, which promotes modesty and respect for each other's bodies. Buddhists believe in celibacy and monasticism but acknowledge that some individuals must marry due to attachment or desires. They advocate moderation and restraint in sexual activity, including abstaining during menstruation and certain times of day. Some Hindus practice tantra yoga, which combines meditation, breathwork, and sexual techniques to enhance spiritual awareness.
Marriage is more than just a legal contract; it requires emotional intimacy, communication, mutual understanding, trust, empathy, compassion, forgiveness, and acceptance. Sex can create and strengthen these bonds by building trust, intimacy, and vulnerability.
It can also lead to guilt, shame, fear, jealousy, resentment, insecurity, frustration, anger, and conflict if not done correctly. Therefore, religious beliefs encourage couples to prioritize their partner's needs over personal gratification. Couples should be patient, tolerant, willing to compromise, and avoid hurting one another through words or actions. Marital sex is a moral obligation rather than a selfish pleasure, and its meaning depends on how partners choose to use it.