The idea that women are expected to be virgins before marriage has been prevalent in many cultures throughout history. This is due to the belief that men are supposed to have their way with them prior to marriage.
This ideology can also be interpreted as an expression of male domination and control over women's bodies. In Hindu culture, for example, the concept of "virgin" refers to a woman who hasn't had sex outside her husband, but it doesn't mean she hasn't enjoyed herself elsewhere. As such, some may argue that this notion contributes to rape culture wherein men believe they have the right to take advantage of women's bodies without consent.
In some religions, there are stories about goddesses being forced into sexual encounters against their will and then punished for having desires.
In the Greek myth of Persephone and Demeter, Zeus kidnaps Persephone and brings her to the underworld where he forces himself on her. This story reflects how patriarchal societies view women's bodies as objects of possession rather than individuals who should enjoy themselves freely. The same holds true for Biblical narratives like Lot's wife or David's adultery with Bathsheba, which suggests that women must always obey their husbands even if it means denying their own needs and pleasures.
Some religious traditions recognize that human beings need sexual satisfaction to stay mentally healthy and spiritually well-rounded. Buddhism teaches that desire is natural, and one shouldn't suppress it by following strict rules about celibacy. Similarly, Islam encourages married couples to engage in intercourse regularly because it helps them bond emotionally. Moreover, Judaism believes that marriage involves physical pleasure, not just procreation; thus, spouses should strive to please each other both physically and spiritually.
The idea that sex is a holy act between two people has been prevalent throughout history, but it hasn't always been interpreted this way. In many cultures, religious texts emphasize that women must submit to men sexually while remaining virginal until marriage.
These beliefs can lead to shame when someone doesn't conform to these expectations, such as those who identify as queer or nonbinary. It also suggests that any type of pleasure outside heteronormative relationships is wrong or sinful, which contributes to discrimination against LGBTQ+ communities.
How religious traditions interpret sexuality shapes societal attitudes towards intimacy and romantic relationships. By promoting myths of purity and punishment for violating them, religions reinforce patriarchal values wherein women are expected to serve men without selfish desires. On the other hand, accepting diversity in sexual orientation could open up conversations on what constitutes consensual, safe, pleasurable sex for all involved parties regardless of their gender identity or relationship status.