Laotian religions have been known to play an important role in shaping social norms and values, including those related to sexual behavior and morality. In fact, many traditional beliefs and customs surrounding sex have their roots in Buddhist and animistic practices that date back centuries. While there is no one set of rules governing premarital sexual activity in Laos, certain taboos exist that are grounded in religious teachings and can influence individual attitudes towards sexual ethics.
The Laotian language lacks a direct translation for "premarital" or "sexual," so the term used here is "peng sai phon." It refers to physical intimacy between people who are not married to each other. Laotians may refer to this as "khokeu thao" or "khao khuen," which literally means "before marriage" but also carries connotations of purity and virginity. The idea of sexual purity prior to marriage has long been valued in Laotian culture, particularly among women. In some communities, girls are expected to remain chaste until their wedding night, when they become members of their husbands' families through consummation of the marriage. This emphasis on virginity reflects the importance placed on maintaining a woman's reputation within her community.
There are exceptions to these expectations.
In rural areas where young people must work together on farms, it was common for couples to engage in peng sai phon before marrying. In urban centers like Vientiane and Luang Prabang, young people today may be more open to casual relationships and flirting without necessarily seeking marriage. As globalization brings new ideas about sexuality into the country, attitudes are shifting, but traditional values continue to hold sway for many Laotians.
Buddhism plays an important role in many aspects of Laotian life, including morality and sexual ethics. Buddhist teachings stress the need for restraint and abstinence from all forms of sensual pleasure, including sex.
Some branches of Buddhism also recognize that human desires cannot always be controlled, so sexual activity between married partners is permitted if it occurs within the context of love and commitment. Many Laotians who practice Buddhism may follow this approach, which allows for sex as part of a loving relationship but requires discipline and moderation.
Animistic beliefs also influence attitudes towards premarital sex. The concept of "khwan" or spirits permeates every aspect of daily life in Laos, and it is believed that actions have consequences beyond the physical realm. If one has sex with someone outside of marriage, it can lead to bad luck or illness in the future. Similarly, if a woman becomes pregnant out of wedlock, she may face social stigma and difficulty finding a husband. This fear of supernatural retribution serves as a deterrent against premarital sex for many Laotians, particularly those living in rural areas where the power of khwan is still strong.
Despite these taboos and religious teachings, there is growing awareness among young people about the importance of safe sex and contraception. Laos has one of the highest HIV/AIDS rates in Southeast Asia, and government efforts are underway to educate the public on prevention methods. Still, many Laotians remain hesitant to discuss sexual health openly or seek out medical advice. As technology brings new information into their lives, they may become more informed about sexual health issues, but traditional values will likely continue to play a role in shaping individual attitudes towards premarital sex and sexual ethics.
How do Laotian religious teachings influence societal and personal attitudes toward premarital sexual activity and sexual ethics?
According to the religious beliefs of Laos, sex is considered as sacred and pure only within the bounds of marriage between a man and a woman. Premarital sex, extramarital affairs, and homosexuality are all prohibited by Lao culture and religion.