The Talmud, a collection of rabbinic teachings compiled between the third and fifth centuries AD, has much to say about masturbation, but its position is not entirely clear. Some scholars interpret it as permissible under certain circumstances, while others see it as forbidden.
There are no specific laws governing this act, which means that different communities may have differing views on the matter. This essay will explore the philosophical, religious, and psychological dilemmas that arise from masturbation according to Jewish texts and how they are ethically addressed.
In the Talmud, masturbation is referred to as 'onanism' after Onan, the son of Judah who spilled his seed rather than marry his brother's widow as commanded by God (Genesis 38:8-10). The sages considered it a sin and compared it to murder because it deprived another person of life. They also believed it was selfish and wasteful because it did not serve procreative purposes.
Other rabbis saw masturbation as an acceptable way to relieve sexual tension when one could not find a partner or for medical reasons. Maimonides, a medieval Jewish philosopher, argued that it was morally neutral unless done excessively or with intent to harm others. He reasoned that masturbation does not violate any commandments and should only be avoided if it causes physical or emotional harm.
Some later commentators interpreted masturbation as a natural urge that should be suppressed or redirected through spiritual practices. Rabbi Moses ben Maimon, known as Maimonides, wrote in his Guide for the Perplexed that masturbation was a sign of weakness and should be overcome through contemplation of the divine. He believed that the body should be subordinate to the soul, which required self-control and discipline.
Modern-day Jews may view masturbation differently depending on their personal beliefs, but many still follow the principle of modesty and chastity. Some believe that it can lead to addiction and loss of self-control, while others see it as a healthy way to express sexual desire without engaging in intercourse outside marriage.
Masturnation is a complex issue that has been debated within Judaism for centuries. While some scholars see it as permissible under certain circumstances, others believe it is forbidden due to its potential negative effects. The ethical dilemmas surrounding this act are philosophical, religious, and psychological, making it difficult to reach a clear consensus.
Each individual must decide what is right for themselves based on their values and beliefs.
What philosophical, religious, and psychological dilemmas arise from masturbation according to Jewish texts, and how are they ethically addressed?
Masturbation is a topic that has been debated and discussed by various cultures throughout history. In Judaism, it is considered a sin and an act of selfishness. The Torah forbids it because it involves lustful thoughts and desires that are contrary to God's will. According to Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto, "the act of masturbation is not only wrong but also dangerous to one's health.