I will discuss how Surinamese religious institutions help to shape the attitudes and behaviors of young people around sexuality, trust, and self-control. Specifically, I will explore the role that Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Taoism, Zoroastrianism, and animistic belief systems play in guiding adolescent behavior in these areas. Through an analysis of the texts, practices, and teachings of various faiths, I aim to provide insight into how Surinamese religions promote healthy sexual development and emotional maturity among youth.
Let's examine the influence of Christianity on adolescents' sexual ethics. The Bible is one of the primary sources of guidance for many Christians in Suriname, and it contains numerous verses concerning sex and intimacy.
Leviticus 18:6-23 warns against incestuous relationships, while Romans 1:24-27 condemns homosexual acts as sinful.
Matthew 5:27-30 states that looking lustfully upon another person is immoral. These passages may discourage youth from engaging in risky or immoral sexual activity.
Other biblical verses suggest that marriage is a sacred institution and should not be taken lightly. Proverbs 5:18-19 encourages young men to respect their wives by treating them with kindness and honesty. Ephesians 5:22-33 suggests that husbands should treat their wives with honor and love. In this way, religious institutions can promote monogamy and fidelity within marriages.
Islam also has strict guidelines regarding sexual conduct. The Quran states that women must dress modestly and be covered in public (Quran 24:31), while men are expected to refrain from gazing at women who are not their wives (Quran 24:30). This emphasis on propriety may help to prevent teenage pregnancy and STIs among Muslim youth.
Islam prohibits adultery and promiscuous behavior outside of marriage (Quran 20:90), which helps to reinforce the importance of commitment and loyalty between partners.
Suriname's government requires all couples seeking legal marriage to complete a course on relationship skills before tying the knot. This includes instruction on communication, conflict resolution, and intimacy building. As a result, many Surinamese Muslims feel confident and secure in their relationships, knowing they have a solid foundation of shared values and beliefs.
Hinduism similarly emphasizes chastity and fidelity. The Bhagavad Gita teaches that sex is a sacred act and should only occur within a committed relationship (Bhagavad Gita 2.69). It also encourages self-control and restraint when it comes to desire (Bhagavad Gita 5.17-18). Thus, Hindus often delay sexual activity until marriage and maintain strong bonds with their spouses once married.
Many Hindu communities have strict rules regarding dating and courtship, such as arranged marriages or restrictions on premarital touching. These customs can help young people develop healthy attitudes about love and romance while minimizing risky behaviors like hookups or casual flings.
Judaism also emphasizes monogamy and faithfulness. The Torah states that men must respect their wives and not take multiple lovers (Deuteronomy 5:18), while women are expected to be obedient and submissive (Ephesians 5:22). In addition, Jewish law requires couples to abstain from sexual contact during menstruation and for several weeks after childbirth (Leviticus 12:1-5). This period allows time for the woman's body to heal and reduces the risk of complications during labor.
Rabbis may counsel young Jews on matters related to intimacy and relationships, providing guidance and support throughout adolescence.
Buddhist teachings promote mindfulness and nonattachment in all areas of life, including sex.
Buddhists believe that lust is a form of suffering and should be avoided (Dhammapada 306). As a result, many youth in Suriname choose to wait until marriage before engaging in sexual activity, and even then, they strive to maintain self-control and discipline. Monks and nuns are often sought out for advice on controlling desire and finding contentment within themselves rather than through others.
Sikhism similarly encourages moderation and balance when it comes to sex. The Guru Granth Sahib states that sex should only occur between married partners who share mutual love and respect (GGS 7794-779). It also warns against excessive physical pleasure (GGS 7760) and cautions against unfaithfulness (GGS 957). These teachings help Sikh teens develop healthy attitudes about love and romance while reducing the likelihood of promiscuity or cheating.
Sikhs place great emphasis on community service and helping others, which can provide an alternative source of satisfaction and fulfillment outside of personal relationships.
Taoism values harmony and balance in all aspects of life, including sexual behavior. The Tao Te Ching recommends avoiding extreme emotions and focusing on self-discipline and restraint (TTC 12). This approach may encourage young people to delay gratification and seek deeper forms of intimacy, such as
In what ways do Surinamese religious institutions guide sexual ethics, relational trust, and emotional self-regulation in adolescents?
Suriname's most prevalent religions are Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Buddhism. Religious institutions such as churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples play an essential role in shaping the sexual ethics, relational trust, and emotional regulation of adolescents. These institutions often emphasize abstaining from premarital sex until marriage and fidelity within marriage.