The idea that human life will come to an end during an apocalypse has been present throughout history. This can have significant effects on how people view pleasure, desire, and bodily attachments. In this essay, I discuss three ways in which apocalyptic expectations shape religious interpretations of these topics.
1. Apocalyptic beliefs often encourage asceticism and abstinence from physical pleasures. Believers may see indulging in sensual pleasures like food, drink, or sexual intimacy as distracting from spiritual pursuits and likely to lead to sin. They may also believe that the world is about to end soon, so there is no point in investing in anything material. This can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and disconnect from one's body.
Some early Christian sects saw marriage as dangerous because it could lead to sexual temptation and distract from God. This can have lasting impacts on individuals' relationships and self-esteem.
2. Apocalyptic thinking can create a sense of urgency around having children. Many religions teach that the end times will be marked by increased violence and chaos, making survival difficult for humans. Therefore, having children can be seen as ensuring the continuation of one's lineage and preserving important cultural traditions. This can lead to pressures to have multiple children quickly or marry at a young age, with negative consequences for women's health and wellbeing. It can also make parents feel responsible for their children's safety and future.
Apocalyptic beliefs can change attitudes towards death and dying. If believers think they are going to heaven shortly, they may view death more positively, seeing it as an escape from suffering. This can affect how they approach end-of-life care and decisions, such as withdrawing treatment or refusing medical intervention.
This can also cause anxiety and fear about what happens after death, leading to extreme actions like suicide.
Apocalyptic expectations shape religious interpretations of pleasure, desire, and bodily attachment by encouraging asceticism, promoting childbearing, and changing views on death. These effects can be significant and long-lasting for individuals and communities.