Background
Masturbation is an act of self-pleasure whereby a person stimulates their genitals for sexual gratification. It is a common practice that occurs in both sexes throughout every stage of life. Throughout history and across different cultures, masturbation has varied in terms of its acceptability. In Christianity, it traditionally has been regarded as a sin, but this view is evolving in certain denominations, particularly among young people. It can be argued that looking at the Bible and early Christian thinkers provides a valuable perspective to understanding if masterbation is a sin in Christianity.
The Bible
There are several passages in the Bible which refer to sexual behaviours such as adultery and pre-marital sex as sinful. However, there is no explicit mention of masturbation being a sin in the Bible. Some bible teachers have drawn parallels between masturbation and lust, interpreting some verses to suggest that it is indeed wrong; however, these interpretations are contested. In the New Testament, Jesus confirms the importance of pure thoughts, saying “that which comes out of the man, that defiles the man,” this could be interpreted as a reference to masturbation. Interestingly, sexual intercourse between married couples is described as an appropriate act of pleasure in the patriarchal culture of Jewish tradition. The purpose of such an act was to bring joy to a marriage. Therefore, it follows that if masturbating can bring a person solitary pleasure and satisfy sexual urges, for some Christians it may not be a sin.
The Church Fathers
In the early years of Christianity, the views from Church Fathers such as Augustine and Jerome were strongly influential in determining the Church’s view on matters of sexuality. Both saw sexual pleasure or any form of contact between unmarried couples as forbidden, regardless of whether a physical or mental act was involved. This traditional view has been partly maintained by denominations such as the Catholic Church and the Southern Baptist Convention, whereby lust, including that which is involved with self-pleasure and masturbation, is seen as a sin as it falls in to a category of thoughts that are condemned in the Bible.
Modern Approach
In more recent years there has been a shift among different churches and denominations, towards a more liberal stance towards the subject of self-pleasure. This emerging viewpoint is largely due to the recognition that masturbation need not necessarily lead to the kinds of actions that the Bible condemns, such as adultery and promiscuity.
An example of this liberal approach is the United Church of Christ, which does not see self-pleasure as a sin, but rather as an act that should be welcomed and discussed openly. This progressive outlook is echoed in the statement by the Church of England “we want to affirm that it is God’s good gift and therefore in itself to be celebrated”.
Dissonance
There exists a dissonance between the traditional views of the Church and the current experiences of many Christians. Leading experts, such as Dr Pilar Calva, have suggested that for a large section of Christians, particularly young people, the issue of self-pleasure is something that needs further discussion.
There needs to be an acknowledgement that a dichotomous approach to pleasure and procreation is not indicative of the human experience and that a modern, holistic view of human sexuality should be adopted. This would enable the embracing of discussions about healthy sexual behaviour and the removal of feelings of guilt and shame associated with self-pleasure.
Contextualisation
It is essential to contextualise the issue of self-pleasure in Christianity and to bring it up to date with the current understanding of human sexuality. It is important to assess the impact that any outcome may have on people’s lives, particularly younger generations, in terms of mental health and wellbeing.
This is a difficult situation, which requires balance between upholding the revealed teaching of Scripture and demonstrating the compassion of Christ in a way which places such an act into a larger discussion about holiness and loving relationships.
Moral Complexity
The moral complex nature of this subject makes it difficult to offer fixed opinions. There is no simple answer as to whether masturbation is ultimately a sin or not in the eyes of Christianity. It seems that much of the argument comes down to personal interpretation and discretion.
What is clear is that there is a need for ongoing discussion about this issue among Christians. These conversations should be conducted with the goal of understanding how to pursue righteousness, holiness and authentic expressions of love for all.
The Role of Experience
Masturbation as an act is not unique to Christianity and has been endorsed, frowned upon or ignored in different faiths and cultures throughout history. The same is true for modern day Christian denominations. Some embrace the idea of self-pleasure as a normal part of life and report positive experiences whereas some condemn it.
There is no definitive answer as to whether masturbation is considered a sin in Christianity and opinions on the topic vary among denominations, theologians and generations. People are invited to assess their beliefs with the Scriptures and consider evidence provided by Church Fathers and by their peers in order to come to a personal opinion.
Negative Views
For some, masturbation might seem to be selfish, and this is often the reason why it is looked at in negative terms. There is a perception that it neither contributes to procreation nor to the loving relationships that Christianity champions. It can be argued that the feelings of guilt associated with an act of self-pleasure can be damaging to an individual, and this should be taken into consideration when assessing an act of pleasure.
The Church needs to respond to the issue in a compassionate, gracious, and realistic manner for those who are affected by it.
Benefits Of Masturbation
It is important to highlight the positives of self-pleasure. Instead of being judged as a form of indulgence, masturbation can be seen as a way of facilitating the natural process of sexual expression without the potential consequences of engaging in sexual activities with other people. It can be beneficial in terms of stress release, gratification, understanding one’s body, and learning how to experience pleasure.
Different Christian denominations have decided to take either an accepting or a more critical stance, depending on their interpretation of the Bible and their views on morality.
Cultural Norms
The consideration of personal morals also needs to take into account the culture in which an act takes place. In some provinces, masturbation is an accepted norm and addressed openly in sex education. In business, there are even companies that offer services to individuals aiming to increase self-pleasure.
It is important to address cultural norms related to masturbation and to consider the wider context of modern life when discussing the morality of self-pleasure.
Health Benefits
The debate surrounding masterbation often overlooks the potential medical benefits of self-pleasure. Experiences of pleasure can enhance one’s physical and mental wellbeing, both in adults and in adolescents. Studies show that it can also help to reduce stress and improve overall cardiovascular health.
In light of this evidence, it is possible to argue that, in certain contexts, self-pleasure can be seen as a utilitarian act that promotes human flourishing.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the discussion on whether masterbation is a sin in Christianity is complex and multifaceted. It requires consideration of the Bible, Church Fathers, modern-day experience and cultural context.
The answer varies among denominations and may be seen on a spectrum of acceptability among Christian information. People must assess their own beliefs and exercise their personal morals when exploring the topic. All consideration of the topic should remain respectful and compassionate, always taking into account the potential impact on people’s wellbeing and mental health.
