Sexual Relationships

• Sexual relationships refer to the intimate physical relationships between two individuals. They are often seen as a key aspect of a committed partnership such as marriage.

Understanding different beliefs:

• Christianity: teaches that sexual relationships should occur only within the sanctity of marriage for procreation and expression of love. Christian views may vary from conservative to liberal, but premarital and extramarital sex is generally seen as sinful.

• Islam: also promotes chastity and sees sexual relationships as permissible only within marriage, rejecting premarital and extramarital sex. Virginity at marriage, particularly for women, has traditionally been emphasised.

• Humanism: advocates for consensual and responsible sexual behaviour. Humanists believe that sex outside of marriage is not inherently wrong.

• Buddhism: views are varied depending on cultural context and personal interpretation. Some believe sexual desire should be conquered to reach Enlightenment, while others see controlled sexual activity as compatible with Buddhist path.

Concepts related to sexual relationships:

• Celibacy: the deliberate choice to abstain from sexual activity. Some religions, such as the Roman Catholic Church, require clergy to take a vow of celibacy.

• Adultery: voluntary sexual intercourse between a married person and a person who is not their spouse. It is seen as morally and religiously wrong across many faiths.

• Contraception: some religions, such as Roman Catholic Christianity, object to the use of contraception as they believe it interferes with God’s plan for procreation. Others, like Humanism and liberal Christianity, support the use of contraception to enable individuals to control their fertility and prevent unwanted pregnancies.

• Homosexuality: different religions have different responses. While some conservative religious individuals or denominations may see homosexuality as sinful, other faiths or individuals may be accepting or tolerant. Humanists and Liberal Protestant Christianities, for example, fully accept homosexuality.

• Marriage: In religious terms, it is often seen as the only permissible place for a sexual relationship. Different faiths have different understandings and rituals of marriage but have generally defined it as a heterosexual institution.

Reflect on these points:

• What impact do these different beliefs have on individuals and communities?
• How do these concepts related to sexual relationships manifest in different cultures and societies?
• Consider how these varied perspectives might intersect or conflict.

Remember: Always refer to specific teachings, principles, or scriptures where possible when discussing the views of a particular religion.