The Guajajara people live in Brazil's northwestern region. They believe that their culture has existed since ancient times and originated from the indigenous cultures of South America. Their religious beliefs are based on animism and shamanism. Animism is the belief that everything in nature possesses a spirit or soul, including animals, plants, rivers, mountains, and rocks. Shamanism involves a person who communicates between humans and spirits for healing and divination purposes. These beliefs influence many aspects of daily life, including social relations, family structures, politics, and economic activities. Sexuality plays an important role in Guajajara society because it affects procreation and reproduction. The Guajajara religion places great emphasis on sexual rules to ensure the continuity of their community.
Rules regarding marriage
Guajaras have strict rules about marriage. In traditional Guajara society, marriages were arranged through negotiations between families. Men would pay dowries to the bride's family in exchange for her hand in marriage. Marriage was seen as a sacred union that united two families instead of just two individuals. To break up this arrangement was considered shameful. Today, love marriages are more common than arranged marriages, but divorce remains taboo and can be very difficult to obtain.
Rules regarding premarital sex
In Guajara society, premarital sex is not encouraged. Young men must prove themselves to their future wives by displaying physical strength and hunting skills. Premarital sex is seen as a sign of weakness and lack of manhood. The couple is expected to wait until marriage before having sex. Once married, they may engage in intercourse to demonstrate their commitment and loyalty to each other.
Any form of sexual activity outside of marriage is forbidden. Adultery is punishable by public humiliation and possibly death.
Polygamy
Polygamous relationships are allowed in Guajara society. A man can marry multiple women if he has the resources to support them all.
Polygamy is controversial and criticized by some. Some say it promotes inequality and puts undue pressure on the first wife. It also raises questions about the treatment of children from different mothers. Women may choose to live with their husbands or return home to their parents after giving birth.
Incest
Incest is prohibited in Guajara society. Brothers and sisters cannot marry. This rule ensures genetic diversity within the community and avoids inbreeding. Children born from incestuous unions are often shunned because they have a high risk of suffering from birth defects or mental illnesses.
Rituals associated with sex
Guajara culture places great emphasis on ritual. Rituals surround every aspect of life, including sex. Before having sex for the first time, the couple performs a ritual to bless the union. Afterward, they must follow strict rules regarding physical contact and clothing.
Men must wear loincloths while women must cover themselves with cloth wraps. Sex is considered sacred and should be performed only when necessary. The couple must also abstain from eating certain foods before and during intercourse. Any misconduct can lead to divine retribution.
What theological, ethical, and ritual principles underlie sexual rules in Guajajara religion, and how are they applied?
In Guajajara religion, sexual activity is considered a sacred act that requires respect for one's partner and the community. The principles of reciprocity and mutual consent guide sexual behavior. Both partners must agree to engage in sexual activity, and it should be done with love and care. Sexual activity is seen as a way of expressing affection and intimacy between two people who have formed a bond based on trust and mutual respect.