How Religious Communities Educate Sexuality Through Omission and Silence
The article discusses how religious communities teach about sexuality, and what lessons they emphasize to members. Religious education is often based on scriptures, which can be interpreted differently depending on one's own understanding of them.
Some interpretations focus on purity, chastity, and abstinence until marriage, while others encourage exploration and self-discovery within committed relationships. Some religious communities may also choose to not talk about sexuality openly at all, instead teaching that it should remain private between partners.
Many faiths have specific rules around touching, including handshakes and hugs, which could be seen as nonsexual but still promote physical contact. Other groups may focus on intimacy and connection, but without explicitly mentioning sex itself. It is important for individuals to consider their beliefs when deciding whether or not to participate in certain behaviors, as well as considering potential consequences such as pregnancy or disease.
There are numerous ways in which religious communities approach sexuality through omission and silence, each with its own merits and drawbacks.
Sex Education in Scripture
One common way religious communities educate about sexuality is through scripture. The Bible includes passages about love, intimacy, and procreation, but does not directly address every aspect of sex. Many Christian denominations follow the Song of Solomon, which describes a passionate relationship between two people, as an instructional guide.
Other parts of the Bible describe adultery, prostitution, rape, and incest, so individuals must read carefully to understand what is considered acceptable behavior. Similarly, Jewish law lays out boundaries around sexual relations, though rabbis may disagree on how strictly these should be followed. Muslim texts such as the Quran provide some guidance on marriage and reproduction, but do not include detailed information about sexual positions or frequency. Buddhist teachings emphasize moderation and avoidance of desire, but also acknowledge that humans have needs. Hinduism recognizes that sex can be enjoyable, but cautions against excessive indulgence.
Scriptures from different faiths offer varying perspectives on sexuality, but all encourage abstinence outside of marriage.
Purity Culture
Many evangelical Christians believe that sex belongs exclusively within heterosexual marriage and should only occur after vows are exchanged. This idea is known as purity culture, and it involves teaching children and teens about chastity, self-control, and abstinence until marriage. Some groups promote "courtship" rather than dating, encouraging couples to spend time together in public settings with others present, while others advocate for separate bedrooms at home. Purity culture places a heavy emphasis on virginity, sometimes leading to shame and stigma when someone does engage in premarital sex. It also tends to focus on male desires and pleasure, leaving women feeling uncomfortable and unable to assert their own needs.
Research suggests that those who grow up under this system may be more likely to experience lower levels of intimacy and satisfaction in their relationships later on.
Touch and Intimacy
Some religious communities place restrictions around touch, even going so far as to prohibit handshakes between men and women. This could stem from a belief that physical contact leads to temptation or arousal, or simply a cultural norm of modesty. In some cases, hugs and kisses are allowed, but only within certain parameters.
Mormons teach that any touching below the waist is forbidden unless both partners are married. This can make it difficult for singles to express affection without crossing boundaries, though they are expected to remain celibate outside of marriage. On the other hand, many Catholic priests are required to take vows of celibacy and not engage in sexual activity themselves, yet still provide spiritual guidance to parishioners.
There are numerous ways in which faiths approach physical closeness and intimacy, each with its own rules and implications.
There are many different approaches to teaching about sexuality within religious communities. Some groups emphasize abstinence until marriage, while others allow exploration within committed relationships. Still, others choose not to discuss sex at all. The consequences of these choices can vary greatly depending on one's individual beliefs and context. It is important for individuals to consider their own values when deciding whether or not to participate in certain behaviors, and to be aware of potential risks such as pregnancy or disease.
Everyone must navigate their own path toward healthy and fulfilling sexual experiences.