Sexuality is an integral part of human experience. It's hard to imagine a life without it. Yet, many people have different opinions on how one should approach this subject. Some consider sex purely physical while others view it as spiritual. This article explores how contemporary Orthodox Christians reconcile their faith with personal erotic experiences and marital satisfaction.
The Bible has a lot to say about marriage and sex. According to Christian beliefs, the purpose of marriage is to create unity between a man and woman, which can be achieved through procreation. In Genesis 2:18-25, God blesses Adam and Eve by creating them in his image and commanding them to "Be fruitful and multiply." The idea is that couples should enjoy each other physically but also spiritually within the confines of monogamy and fidelity.
Some Orthodox Christians believe that sexual pleasure is forbidden outside of marriage.
In Orthodoxy, there are three degrees of purity: virginity, chastity, and holiness. Virginity means abstaining from all forms of sexual activity before marriage. Chastity implies faithfulness during marriage. Holiness entails renouncing carnal desire entirely. While Orthodox teachings support the first two degrees, they do not explicitly discuss the third. Still, some people embrace asceticism or celibacy by abstaining from sexual activity altogether.
Some Orthodox Christians argue that sex is sacred and intimate but not inherently sinful. They encourage married couples to engage in sexual intercourse for pleasure as long as it remains consensual, mutual, and monogamous. This approach allows individuals to explore their sexuality without compromising religious values. Others disagree, arguing that sexual pleasure is selfish and indulgent. They advise couples to focus on spiritual growth rather than physical gratification.
Many contemporary Orthodox Christians struggle with these conflicting beliefs and desires. Some seek counseling or attend workshops on sexual health to find balance between faith and eroticism. Others turn to books or online resources for guidance. Some choose to follow a more conservative approach while others adopt a liberal one. In any case, reconciling religion with personal experiences requires introspection, communication, and compromise.
How do contemporary Orthodox Christians reconcile religious sexual teachings with personal erotic experiences and marital satisfaction?
The contemporary Orthodox Christianity emphasizes on marriage as one of the core elements of life that requires faithfulness and fidelity between two persons. It believes that sex is an act of intimacy that should be practiced within the bounds of marriage only. Hence, any kind of premarital sex, extra-marital sex, adultery, pornography, etc. , are forbidden under this religion.