Lao culture has always been heavily influenced by Buddhist principles, including those related to sexual behavior. According to Buddhist teachings, all forms of sexual activity are considered illicit outside of marriage, regardless of gender identity or orientation.
This does not mean that Laos is a completely repressed society when it comes to sexual expression. In fact, there have been many historical accounts documenting Lao's vibrant sex lives both within and outside of marriage. This essay will explore how traditional religious beliefs have shaped Laotian attitudes towards premarital sexual behavior, as well as some of the more taboo aspects of sexuality in the region.
Premarital Sexual Behavior
The majority of Laotians follow Theravada Buddhism, which emphasizes self-control and restraint in all areas of life. The monastic code prohibits monks from engaging in any form of sexual contact whatsoever, even with their own wives, though this rule does not apply to lay people. For unmarried individuals, sexual activity prior to wedlock is frowned upon but not expressly forbidden. It is expected that young people will wait until they are married to engage in sexual intercourse, though the exact age varies depending on the individual family's values. Premarital sex is viewed as immoral because it violates the purity of the body and mind, and can lead to unwanted pregnancies, STIs, and other negative outcomes.
There is no formal punishment for having premarital sex; instead, families may choose to ostracize the couple or force them into an early marriage.
Erotic Norms
Laotian culture places a great deal of importance on modesty and discretion when it comes to eroticism. Public displays of affection are generally considered inappropriate, especially between members of different genders. Same-sex relationships are also discouraged, although same-gender couples do exist in private. The most common expression of sexual desire is through touching and kissing within the context of marriage. Many marriages begin with a traditional "marriage proposal" ceremony, where the groom asks his bride's father for her hand in marriage. This ceremony often involves an exchange of betel nuts, which symbolize fertility and abundance. Once the couple is married, they may engage in intimate behavior without shame or guilt.
Gender Roles and Sexual Behavior
Gender roles play a significant role in Lao attitudes towards sexuality. Men are expected to be assertive and active in bed, while women are supposed to be passive and submissive. Homosexuality is not tolerated in either gender, and bisexuality is rare. There are certain activities that are only acceptable for heterosexual couples (such as oral sex) and others that are forbidden altogether (such as anal sex). Adultery is a serious offense and can lead to divorce, shaming, or even physical violence. Prostitution is illegal but still exists in some areas of the country; many Laotians believe that prostitutes are evil and immoral, though some see them as necessary evils due to high levels of poverty.
Laotian religious teachings have had a profound influence on societal and personal attitudes toward premarital sexual behavior and erotic norms. While there is no explicit ban on premarital sex, it is generally viewed as immoral and discouraged by family members and society at large. Eroticism is highly regulated and often private, with public displays of affection frowned upon. Gender roles dictate who should take the lead in sexual encounters, and homosexuality is taboo. The impact of these cultural norms on individual lives cannot be overlooked, but they do allow for a degree of expression within marriage that might otherwise be unavailable.
How do Laotian religious teachings influence societal and personal attitudes toward premarital sexual behavior and erotic norms?
Religious belief systems play an important role in shaping cultural values and behaviors. In Laos, the major religion is Theravada Buddhism, which emphasizes abstinence from sexual activity outside of marriage as one of its core principles. According to this doctrine, sex before marriage is considered immoral and harmful to the individual's spiritual growth and well-being.