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Human Sexuality and Sexual Relationships
Human Sexuality and Sexual Relationships
This is one of the most debated topics in religious ethics. Christian and Islamic teachings on sexuality have shaped moral attitudes for centuries, but these teachings are now being challenged and reinterpreted in light of changing social attitudes. This lesson explores religious and ethical perspectives on human sexuality.
Key Terms
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Heterosexuality | Sexual attraction to people of the opposite sex |
| Homosexuality | Sexual attraction to people of the same sex |
| Bisexuality | Sexual attraction to people of both sexes |
| Celibacy | Choosing not to have sexual relationships |
| Chastity | Not having sex before marriage; or the virtuous use of sexuality |
| Contraception | Methods used to prevent pregnancy |
| Promiscuity | Having many sexual partners without commitment |
| Adultery | Having a sexual relationship with someone other than your spouse |
Christian Views on Sexual Relationships
Traditional Christian Teaching
- Sex should take place only within marriage between a man and a woman
- Sex has two purposes: procreation (having children) and uniting a married couple
- Adultery is forbidden (Seventh Commandment: "You shall not commit adultery")
- Sex before marriage (fornication) is considered sinful by most traditional Christians
"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit?" (1 Corinthians 6:19)
Liberal Christian Views
- Some Christians argue that loving, committed relationships (including same-sex relationships) are acceptable
- The quality of the relationship (love, commitment, faithfulness) matters more than its form
- The Bible's teachings should be interpreted in their historical context
Christian Views on Homosexuality
| View | Position | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Conservative/Traditional | Homosexual acts are sinful | "You shall not lie with a male as with a woman" (Leviticus 18:22); the Bible consistently presents marriage as between a man and a woman |
| Moderate | Homosexual orientation is not sinful, but homosexual acts are | The Catholic Church teaches "respect, compassion, and sensitivity" towards gay people but considers homosexual acts "intrinsically disordered" |
| Liberal/Progressive | Homosexuality is natural and not sinful; same-sex relationships should be celebrated | Jesus said nothing about homosexuality; the greatest commandment is love; biblical passages must be read in historical context |
Exam Tip: You must be able to present BOTH traditional and liberal views on homosexuality and explain the reasoning behind each. Avoid expressing your own opinion — present the arguments on each side.
Islamic Views on Sexual Relationships
Islamic Teaching on Sex
- Sex is a gift from Allah to be enjoyed within marriage
- Sex before marriage (zina) is forbidden (haram) and is considered a major sin
- Adultery is one of the gravest sins in Islam
"And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way." (Surah Al-Isra 17:32)
Islamic Views on Homosexuality
- Traditional Islamic teaching considers homosexual acts to be haram (forbidden)
- The Qur'an refers to the story of Lut (Lot) as a condemnation of homosexual behaviour
- Most Muslim scholars maintain that homosexual acts are sinful, while recognising that having same-sex feelings is not itself a sin if not acted upon
- A small number of progressive Muslim groups argue for greater acceptance
Comparing Christian and Islamic Views
| Issue | Christianity | Islam |
|---|---|---|
| Sex before marriage | Traditional: forbidden / Liberal: acceptable in committed relationships | Forbidden (haram) |
| Adultery | Sinful | One of the gravest sins |
| Homosexuality | Views range from sinful to fully accepted, depending on denomination | Traditional teaching: haram; progressive voices are emerging |
| Purpose of sex | Procreation and unity within marriage | A blessing within marriage; part of Allah's plan |
Contraception
Christian Views
| Denomination | Position |
|---|---|
| Roman Catholic | Artificial contraception is forbidden; only natural family planning is permitted (Humanae Vitae, 1968) |
| Church of England | Contraception is acceptable within marriage as a responsible choice |
| Other Protestants | Generally accept contraception as a matter of personal conscience |
Islamic Views
- Most Muslim scholars permit contraception within marriage if both partners agree
- Some methods are preferred over others (barrier methods are generally accepted)
- Permanent sterilisation is generally discouraged unless medically necessary
- The intention should not be to reject children entirely — large families are encouraged
Exam Tip: The Catholic prohibition on artificial contraception is a distinctive teaching. Be sure you can explain it and contrast it with other Christian and Islamic views.
Summary
Religious teachings on sexuality vary considerably, even within the same faith tradition. While traditional Christian and Islamic views share a common emphasis on sex within marriage and a cautious approach to homosexuality, liberal and progressive voices within both religions are calling for greater acceptance and inclusion. Understanding these diverse perspectives is essential for the GCSE exam.