Kissing or expressing love physically is a controversial topic in Hinduism. On one hand, Hindu texts view sex as a critical part of marriage, while on the other hand, Hinduism is a strict religion that aspires to practice complete celibacy. Religious customs and values are also very important in determining whether kissing is allowed in Hinduism.
In the Hindu culture, premarital kissing is highly discouraged, and there is usually zero tolerance for anything that could even remotely lead to sexual climax. This is because of certain boundaries and ideas of morality that are deeply entrenched in Hindu society, which seeks to protect marriage from any acts of promiscuity. Hinduism promotes abstinence from premarital and extramarital sexual activity in order to safeguard marital fidelity and the sanctity of the marriage relationship.
Even so, traditional Hindu couples often have the habit of expressing their love by greeting each other with a kiss. Expressions of love between husband and wife can come in the form of hugs, embraces, and hand holding, as well as a peck on the lips. Such physical displays are generally restricted to the private domain, and considered as acceptable in public only when they remain within the limits of what is considered Hindu morality.
The picture of physical affection and expressions of love in Hinduism may vary, depending on the regional and ethnic backgrounds of couples. Some couples, who come from a conservative background, may choose to not indulge in physical expressions of love and affection at all. Others who live in large cities may choose to engage in private physical displays of affection, especially in the context of marriage.
Though, the issue of kissing is a complicated and personal one, the general rule remains: couples should be mindful of the moral and spiritual guidelines of the Hindu faith when exploring and expressing physical affection. Doing so, couples can freely and comfortably express their faith without compromising their beliefs in any way.
Kissing Symbols in Hindu Mythology
Kissing has a long history in Hinduism and it even has a presence in mythology. It is not uncommon to find couples in Hindu mythological stories embracing, kissing each other, or manifesting their love through intimate moments. This is particularly the case with married couples. We can find the examples of Ram and Sita and Krishna and his beloved Radha in Hindu scriptures.
Kissing between couples of the same gender is also not unusual in Hindu mythological stories. For example, in the Mahabharata, the Pandavas (the five great warriors) kiss each other as a sign of brotherly love. This serves as a reminder that physical expressions of love, even between those of the same gender, are not necessarily prohibited in Hinduism.
In modern Hindu wedding ceremonies, rituals and customs that involve expressions of love and physical affection reinforce the importance of love in marriage and how it can lead to a more fulfilling relationship. Apart from expressing love to each other, traditions such as the sharing of garlands, and the newlyweds joining their foreheads, are also quite common in Hindu weddings.
Hindu Religious Dilemma – Kissing Or Abstinence
The subject of kissing or physical expressions of love in Hinduism is a complicated one. Even though some couples choose to abstain completely from physical expressions of love, there are also many who indulge in them. Such decisions are often made according to personal principles and beliefs.
The debate between going for a conservative, abstinent approach or indulging in physical expressions of love, often comes down to matters of opinion and personal convictions. With regards to kissing or expressing love physically, the answer lies in the morality of each individual and their personal choices. Nevertheless, if done in a respectful and discreet way, expressing love physically can be a crucial part of the marriage relationship.
Modern Hindu Values – A New Take on Kissing in Hinduism
In the modern world, are changing and more couples are now choosing to engage in physical expressions of love and affection, even within the framework of the Hindu faith. Such couples often profess that the act of kissing is an expression of the love they share, and that it can lead to even more profound emotional connections.
The changing attitude of many young couples, indicates that kissing in certain circumstances has become more socially acceptable and is no longer taboo, especially when it is kept within the boundaries of Hindu faith and morality. This shows that many couples who still value the Hindu religion and its traditions, are open to exploring more positive and healthy forms of physical expression in their relationships.
Cultural and Family Influences – Does Kissing Go Against Hindu Values?
The question of whether expressing physical love is compatible with Hindu values and beliefs, often depends on a variety of cultural and family influences. Different families have different thresholds of morality and acceptability, so it’s hard to draw a clear line regarding what is or isn’t permissible in Hinduism.
Nevertheless, Hindu couples should remember to respect the traditions and moral values of their religion when expressing physical love, while being mindful of their own principles and personal boundaries. Such couples may choose to use the act of kissing as an opportunity to celebrate their relationship, through a loving and meaningful expression of their dedication and commitment.
Kissing: The Crux of the Debate
Ultimately, the debate over whether expressing physical love is allowed in Hinduism comes down to personal beliefs, convictions and values. Some couples may decide to abstain from any form of physical expressions of affection, while others may choose to engage in a certain level of physical intimacy. What is important is that couples stay within the boundaries of what is morally acceptable in Hinduism, when expressing physical love.
The act of kissing is an expression of feelings and emotions in a relationship and its importance should never be overlooked. It can be a way for a couple to express their mutual love and commitment in a positive and meaningful way. While the context of such acts must always be taken into consideration to ensure that they are respectful and in line with the values of Hinduism.
Conclusion
Kissing in Hinduism is a controversial topic and one that leads to a lot of debate. Couples should remember to respect the traditions and moral values of the Hindu faith when expressing physical love, while keeping within the boundaries of what is socially accepted through kisses. For some couples, engaging in physical expressions of love and affection can often be an act of celebrating the strength of their relationship and the deeper connection they share.
