It’s impossible to talk about evolving attitudes towards sexuality without considering one of its greatest opponents, religion. Religious doctrines set out several strict rules regarding sex and marriage for their members to adhere to, placing emphasis on purity, commitment, and the sanctity of marriage. Sexual liberation often does not enter the narrative.
The top five religions in the UK are Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Judaism. Here’s what each has to say about sex and marriage.
Pre-marital sex
In all five religions listed above, pre-marital sex is forbidden, but the consequences for it vary greatly depending on the country.
In Islam, this extends to non-sexual behaviours that are believed to have the potential to lead people into temptation, like dating.
The Jewish tradition “Kiddushin” emphasises that sexual intimacy should exist within the confines of marriage,
In Christianity, the bible commands its followers to “flee from sexual immorality,” but contemporary attitudes may vary among different denominations.
In Sikhism, the Rehat Maryada (code of conduct) views pre-marital sex as a moral transgression and in Hinduism, it is equally considered dishonourable if it is pursued for pleasurable purposes without the intention of commitment.
Post-Marital Sex
Some religions also have rules about having sex once you are married, regarding when it is appropriate and the purpose behind it.
In Judaism, marital sexual conduct is governed by Niddah laws, which prohibit sexual relations during menstruation and for seven days afterwards. There is then a ritual purification process known as Mikveh to restore intimacy.
Christianity, Sikhism and Islam believe that the purpose of sex should be procreative, but Islamic teachings also prioritise consent, pleasure and the development of emotional connection between couples more so.
This is also similar to Hinduism, as although they do not believe in sex solely for procreation, they do believe it should foster a strong partnership and sense of family unity.
Adultery
Depending on where you are located and which religion you follow, there can be severe spiritual and legal consequences for committing adultery.
In Islam, it was previously punishable by stoning, but this is no longer regularly enforced.
In Christianity, this previously could have seen you excommunicated, but today you are more likely to receive atonement through the rite of confession.
This is similar to Judaism, where the need for repentance is expressed through the ritual of Teshuvah, where individuals complete a spiritual journey to cleanse their relationship with God.
Hinduism considers adultery to be a breach of “Dharma” or “duty”, and in Sikhism, lust is considered an obstacle to realising one's personal relationship with God and thus a severe violation of their ethical code of conduct.
As we continue to see challenges to liberal attitudes towards sex and marriage, it’s important to remember that considering differing religious attitudes can help to create mutual understanding and unity.
Written by Leah Marie Cox
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