Christianity
Islam
Judaism
Hinduism
Buddhism
Sexual Ethics
Every major religion provides moral guidance on sexuality, seeking to channel one of the most powerful human drives within a framework of holiness, responsibility, and relational fidelity. While the specifics vary, the conviction that sexuality has a sacred dimension is universal.
Across the World's Religions
Christianity
- Practice
- Sexual ethics — marriage as proper context; chastity
- Key Text
- 1 Corinthians 6:18-20; Hebrews 13:4; Matthew 5:28
Islam
- Practice
- Zina (adultery/fornication) prohibited; marriage encouraged
- Key Text
- Quran 17:32, 24:2-3
Judaism
- Practice
- Arayot (sexual prohibitions); sanctity of marriage
- Key Text
- Leviticus 18; Exodus 20:14; Proverbs 5:18-19
Hinduism
- Practice
- Brahmacharya (celibacy/chastity) as a spiritual discipline
- Key Text
- Bhagavad Gita 8:11; Yoga Sutra 2.38
Buddhism
- Practice
- Kamesu micchacara — abstaining from sexual misconduct (3rd precept)
- Key Text
- AN 10.176; Dhammapada 246-247