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| | [[Image:Hans-Memling-allegory-chastity.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Allegory of chastity by [[Hans Memling]].]] | | [[Image:Hans-Memling-allegory-chastity.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Allegory of chastity by [[Hans Memling]].]] |
| − | '''Chastity''', in many [[religion|religious]] and [[culture|cultural]] contexts, is a [[virtue]] concerning the state of purity of the [[mind]] and [[body]]. The term is most often associated with refraining from [[sexual intercourse|sexual intimacy]], especially outside of [[marriage]]. Chastity is often taken to be synonymous with [[virginity]] or abstention from all sexual activity. However, sexually active married couples are also considered to practice chastity if they remain faithful to their marital vows. | + | '''Chastity''' is a [[virtue]] concerning the state of purity of the [[mind]] and [[body]]. Chastity includes abstinence from [[human sexuality|sexual intimacy]] for the unmarried, and faithfulness to a [[marriage]] partner. Pre-marital virginity ([[sexual abstinence|abstinence]]) is the form of chastity expected of young people. Sexually active married couples are also considered to practice chastity if they remain faithful to their marital vows. Finally, chastity includes abstention from all sexual activity ([[celibacy]]). |
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| − | Due to the prohibitions of sexual intimacy outside of marriage in [[Abrahamic religions]], deriving from the [[Ten Commandments]] and [[Mosaic law]], the term has become closely associated with [[Pre-marital sex|premarital]] [[sexual abstinence]] in [[Western culture]]. however, in the context of religion, the term remains applicable to persons in all states, single or married, clerical or lay, and has implications beyond sexual temperance.
| + | Chastity is seen as undergirding [[marriage]]; sexual acts outside of marriage are considered [[sin|sinful]], both because they are spiritually damaging to the individual and because they undermine and destroy the [[family]]. (On the deleterious effects of premarital sex on subsequent marriage, see [[sexual abstinence]]). |
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| − | Chastity is one of the [[Seven virtues|Seven holy virtues]] of Catholic teaching, opposing the [[Seven deadly sins|deadly sin]] of [[lust]]. The [[Catechism]] of the Catholic Church states that "chastity" is the successful integration of sexuality within the person and thus the inner unity of a human person in his or her bodily and spiritual being.
| + | Traditional societies enforced the norms of premarital virginity and marital fidelity backed by strong community sanctions and even by force of law. These norms of chastity have been expected of the faithful of all the major religions, including [[Christian]]s, [[Muslim]]s, [[Buddhism|Buddhists]], [[Hinduism|Hindus]] and [[Confucianism|Confucianists]]. However, in the modern West, particularly since the [[sexual revolution]] of the 1960s, these norms have fallen by the wayside, replaced by widespread acceptance of casual sex before marriage, cohabitation in place of marriage, and extra-marital affairs even when they lead to divorce. In the current cultural climate, some see sexual restraint as unnatural, even unhealthy. |
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| | + | In attempting to combat the current permissive climate, social conservatives in the United States are advocating abstinence-based sex education, and municipalities and churches are promoting [[marriage education]] to prepare newlyweds for the challenges of maintaining faithful [[marriage]]s. These efforts aim at restoring a "marriage culture" where chastity is prized. Strong marriages, undergirded by the virtue of chastity, provide economic, psychological, and social benefits to both the married couple and their children. |
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| | ==Classical origin== | | ==Classical origin== |
| − | The word derives, via the French ''chasteté'', from the Latin ''castitas'', which is the abstract of ''castus'' (the root of ''chaste''), which originally meant a `pure' state of conformity with the Greco-Roman religion, rather the practical counterpart of a pious (Latin ''pius'') state of mind, in no way limited to the sexual sphere. As the etymological link suggests, [[castigation]] or chastisement is originally the use of (harsh) means to preserve or restore this state as a form of [[catharsis (disambiguation)|catharsis]]. This meaning is preserved fully in the parallel term "chastening." | + | The word derives from the [[Latin]] ''castitas,'' the abstract form of ''castus,'' which originally meant a pure state of conformity with the Greco-Roman religion. As the etymological link suggests, [[castigation]], chastisement, and in the extreme case, even [[castration]] originally relate to the use of harsh means to preserve or restore this state of purity. This meaning is preserved fully in the parallel term "chastening." |
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| − | In ancient times the value of chastity was highly debated in both the [[homosexuality|homosexual]] and [[heterosexuality|heterosexual]] spheres. In particular, [[Socrates]] was an advocate of chaste [[pederasty|pederastic relations]] between men and boys, in opposition to the sexually expressed [[pedagogy|pedagogic]] relationships prevalent in his time. [[Plato]], having transmitted many of these teachings, has become the eponym for this type of chastity, known today as [[Platonic love]] (as opposed to [[romantic love]], [[Parenting|parental love]], [[Sibling|sibling love]], etc.)
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| − | ==Abrahamic religions==
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| − | Traditionally, acts of sexual nature are prohibited outside of marriage in Islamic and Judeo-Christian ethical contexts and are considered [[sin|sinful]]. Since offenses against the [[virtue]] of chastity are most often perceived as fornication or [[adultery]], the term has become closely associated with [[sexual abstinence]] in common usage throughout most of the English-speaking world.
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| − | Not all ethical systems proscribe all of the following, but among those acts considered as offenses against chastity are: [[Adultery]], [[Anal sex]], [[Birth control]], [[Fornication]], [[Lust]], [[Masturbation]], [[Oral sex]], [[Pornography]], [[Prostitution]], [[Rape]], Sexual intimacy during or shortly after [[menstrual cycle|menstruation]], and Sexual intimacy for a period of time after the [[childbirth|birth of a child]]
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| − | The state of chastity may include not only [[sexual abstinence]] but also: [[Coitus]] within the context of [[marriage|marital fidelity]], [[Natural family planning]], and yet, as above, the particular ethical system may not prescribe each of these.
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| − | For example, within the scope of [[Christianity|Christian]] ethic, [[Roman Catholic Church|Roman Catholics]] view sex within marriage as chaste, but prohibit the use of artificial contraception as an offense against chastity, seeing contraception as contrary to God's will and design of human sexuality. Many [[Anglicanism|Anglican]] churches allow for artificial contraception, seeing the restriction of family size as possibly not contrary to God's will. A stricter view is held by the [[Shakers]], who prohibit marriage (and indeed sexual intercourse under any circumstances) as a violation of chastity.
| + | In ancient times, the value of chastity was highly debated in both the [[homosexuality|homosexual]] and [[heterosexuality|heterosexual]] spheres. In particular, [[Socrates]] was an advocate of chastity between male teachers and their students, in opposition to the sexually expressed [[pedagogy|pedagogic]] relationships prevalent in his time. [[Plato]], having transmitted many of these teachings, has become the eponym for this type of chastity, known today as [[Platonic love]] (as opposed to [[romantic love]]). |
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| − | ==Vocational expressions of chastity== | + | ==Inter-religious view of chastity== |
| | ===Marriage=== | | ===Marriage=== |
| − | In the context of traditional [[marriage]], the spouses commit to a lifelong relationship which excludes the possibility of sexual intimacy with other persons. The Roman Catholic Church also forbids masturbation, and non-procreative sexuality within the confines of marriage while most Protestant Christian denominations disagree. Some see prohibition of unitive, non-procreative marriage as a heretical position, similar to that of the [[Apotactite|Apostoloci]]. <ref>[http://reform-catholic.blogspot.com/ Typical reference for chastity reform with respect to Marriage]</ref> Many in the Catholic church seek to reform this position on Chastity, for example, see the [[Winnipeg Statement]].
| + | [[religion|Religious]] teachings maintain that fidelity within [[marriage]] is vital to the health of the marriage and ensuing [[family]]. Beliefs in the sacredness of marriage and human sexuality provide reasons for abstinence prior to marriage, fidelity to one's spouse after marriage, and lifelong abstinence if a person does not marry. |
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| − | Marriage may also carry the following rights and obligations, although no society has all, and none are universal: establishing the legal father of a woman's child; establishing the legal mother of a man's child; giving the husband or his family control over the wife's sexual services, labor, and/or property; giving the wife or her family control over the husband's sexual services, labor, and/or property; establishes a joint fund of property for the benefit of children; and establishing a relationship between the families of the husband and wife.
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| − | Marriage has traditionally been a prerequisite for starting a family, which usually serves as the building block of a community and society. Thus, marriage not only serves the interests of the two individuals, but also the interests of their children and the society of which they are a part.
| + | In the context of traditional [[marriage]], the spouses commit to a lifelong relationship which excludes the possibility of sexual intimacy with other persons. |
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| − | In most of the world's major religions, marriage is traditionally a prerequisite for sexual intercourse. Unmarried people are not supposed to have sex, which is then called fornication and is socially discouraged or even criminalized. Sex with a married person other than one's spouse, called adultery, is even less acceptable and has also often been considered a crime, especially in the case of a person who is a representative of the government (e.g. president, prime minister, political representative, school teacher, or military officer).
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| | ===Virginity=== | | ===Virginity=== |
| | + | [[Image:DomenichinounicornPalFarnese.jpg|thumb|250px|Virgin with a unicorn. In western mythology, the unicorn is a symbol of virginity.]] |
| | [[Virginity]], the physical state of innocent sexual purity, has often been a requirement for certain religious functions, especially as priests and priestesses. For example, [[Vestal Virgin]]s in [[Ancient Rome]] were required to be virgins, and remain so until they left office at about age 40. | | [[Virginity]], the physical state of innocent sexual purity, has often been a requirement for certain religious functions, especially as priests and priestesses. For example, [[Vestal Virgin]]s in [[Ancient Rome]] were required to be virgins, and remain so until they left office at about age 40. |
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| | The status of virginity is respected and valued in certain societies, particularly when there are religious views regarding sexual conduct before marriage. A woman who is a virgin is also sometimes referred to as a maiden. | | The status of virginity is respected and valued in certain societies, particularly when there are religious views regarding sexual conduct before marriage. A woman who is a virgin is also sometimes referred to as a maiden. |
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| − | Female virginity is closely interwoven with personal or even family honor in many cultures. Traditionally in some cultures, there has been a widespread belief that the loss of virginity before marriage is a matter of deep shame. In some cultures (for example the Bantu of South Africa), virginity testing or even surgical procedures guaranteeing premarital abstinence (infibulation) are commonplace. This would typically involve personal inspection by a female elder. | + | Female virginity is closely interwoven with personal or even family honor in many cultures. Traditionally in some [[culture]]s, there has been a widespread belief that the loss of virginity before marriage is a matter of deep shame. In some cultures (for example the Bantu of South Africa), virginity testing or even surgical procedures guaranteeing premarital abstinence (infibulation—The stitching together of the vulva, often after a clitoridectomy, leaving a small opening for the passage of urine and menstrual blood, or the similar stitching of the prepuce)<ref>Dictionary.com, [http://dictionary.com Homepage.] Retrieved December 30, 2007.</ref> are commonplace. This would typically involve personal inspection by a female elder. |
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| − | In Western marriage ceremonies, brides traditionally wear veils and white wedding dresses, which are inaccurately believed by many people to be symbols of virginity. In fact, wearing white is a comparatively recent custom among western brides, who previously wore whatever colors they wished or simply their "best dress." Wearing white became a matter first of trendy fashion and then of custom and tradition only over the course of the nineteenth century. | + | In Western marriage ceremonies, brides traditionally wear veils and white wedding dresses, which are believed by many to be symbols of virginity. In fact, wearing white is a comparatively recent custom among western brides, who previously wore whatever colors they wished or simply their best dress. Wearing white became a matter first of fashion and then of tradition over the course of the nineteenth century. |
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| − | ===Celebacy=== | + | ===Celibacy=== |
| − | [[Celibacy]] refers to an individual having decided to refrain from [[human sexuality|sexual]] activity (sexual abstinence), or to remain unmarried. Also known as "consecrated virginity," celebacy usually refers to ordained clergy or persons in religious orders, and is an avowed way of living in which the person forsakes all sexual gratification. | + | [[Celibacy]] refers to an individual having decided to refrain from [[human sexuality|sexual]] activity (sexual abstinence), or to remain unmarried. Also known as "consecrated virginity," celibacy usually refers to ordained clergy or persons in religious orders, and is an avowed way of living in which the person forsakes all sexual gratification. |
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| − | Common reasons to deliberately abstain from the physical expression of [[human sexuality|sexual]] desire include [[religion|religious]] or [[philosophy|philosophical]] reasons (such as chastity), material reasons (to prevent undesired [[pregnancy]] or [[Sexually Transmitted Disease]] (STD) transmission), or to conform to legal injunctions.
| + | [[Image:Heilig Bloed-Clerici-Monialen.jpg|thumb|200px|Chastity is a requirement for monks and some priests in many religious traditions.]] |
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| − | Some religions require celibacy of their [[priest]]s, regarding sexual purity as essential in order to perform the rites and rituals that connect the people to [[heaven]]. Others regard the priestly function more in terms of ministering to the people, and thus a healthy [[marriage]] is considered as good if not better than celibacy. In [[monasticism|monastic]] orders, a vow of sexual abstinence is often viewed as essential in order to align one's mind and spirit to the path of spiritual growth, renouncing cares of the physical world, which include sexual relationships. Philosophers, too, have taken this path. | + | Some [[religion]]s require celibacy of their [[priest]]s, regarding sexual purity as essential in order to perform the rites and rituals that connect the people to [[heaven]]. Others regard the priestly function more in terms of ministering to the people, and thus a healthy [[marriage]] is considered as good if not better than celibacy. In [[monasticism|monastic]] orders, a vow of sexual abstinence is often viewed as essential in order to align one's mind and spirit to the path of spiritual growth, renouncing cares of the physical world, which include sexual relationships. Philosophers, too, have taken this path. |
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| − | The [[Roman Catholic Church]] requires a promise of celibacy prior to ordination to the diaconate by both secular clerics and religious in perpetual vows. Married men can be ordained only by dispensation of the [[Holy See]]. Currently, this dispensation is given only to married men, ordained in another denomination, who convert. Widowers with children can be ordained. By contrast, marriage is accepted or even encouraged for priests in the [[Anglican]] and many Protestant churches. | + | The [[Roman Catholic Church]] requires a promise of celibacy prior to ordination to the ''[[deacon|diaconate]]'' by both secular clerics and "religious" in perpetual vows. Married men can be ordained only by dispensation of the [[Holy See]]. By contrast, marriage is accepted or even encouraged for priests in the [[Anglican]] and many Protestant churches. In the [[Eastern Orthodox Church]] traditions, celibacy is not required of secular priests but is required in monastic orders, from which bishops are selected. In virtually all Christian traditions, celibacy is usually required of monastics—[[monk]]s, [[nun]]s, and [[friar]]s. |
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| − | [[Vows of chastity]] can also be taken by laypersons, either as part of an organized religious life (such as Roman Catholic [[Beguines and Beghards]]s) or on an individual basis, as a voluntary act of devotion and/or as part of an ascetic lifestyle, often devoted to [[Christian contemplation|contemplation]]. The voluntary aspect has led it to being included among the [[counsels of perfection]].
| + | Vows of chastity (celibacy) can also be taken by laypersons, either as part of an organized religious life (such as Roman Catholic [[Beguines and Beghards]]) or on an individual basis, as a voluntary act of devotion and/or as part of an ascetic lifestyle, often devoted to [[Christian contemplation|contemplation]]. The voluntary aspect has led it to be included among the [[counsels of perfection]]. |
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| − | In the Eastern Orthodox Church traditions, celibacy is not required of secular priests but is required in monastic orders, from which bishops are selected. In all three traditions, celibacy is almost always required of monastics—monks, nuns, and friars—even in a rare system of [[double cloister]]s, in which husbands could enter the (men's) monastery while their wives entered a (women's) sister monastery.
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| − | Anglicanism does not require celibacy of its heterosexual clergy, and rather favors married clergy—the vicar's wife is considered part of a typical parish. Most Protestant traditions allow clergy to marry; the Mormons even used to encourage [[polygamy]], and certain subsects still do.
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| | In some religions, celibate monastic life is commonly practiced as a temporary phase, as by many men in [[Buddhism]]. | | In some religions, celibate monastic life is commonly practiced as a temporary phase, as by many men in [[Buddhism]]. |
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| − | For many, however, celibacy is seen as unnatural, even unhealthy. While debate persists on this issue, religious teachings maintain that fidelity within marriage is vital to the sacrament and to the health of the marriage and ensuing [[family]]. Beliefs in the sacredness of marriage and human sexuality provide reasons for abstinence prior to marriage, fidelity to one's spouse after marriage, and lifelong abstinence if a person does not marry.
| + | ===Abrahamic religions=== |
| | + | Traditionally, acts of a sexual nature are prohibited outside of marriage in [[Islam]]ic and [[Judeo-Christian]] ethical contexts, and are considered [[sin|sinful]]. Since offenses against the [[virtue]] of chastity are most often expressed as [[fornication]] or [[adultery]], the term has become closely associated with [[sexual abstinence]] in common usage throughout most of the English-speaking world. |
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| − | ==Chastity in contemporary culture==
| + | In Roman Catholic teaching, chastity is one of the [[Seven virtues|Seven holy virtues]], opposing the [[Seven deadly sins|deadly sin]] of [[lust]]. Everyone is called to chastity be they married, single, or in a religious order. Chastity is a function of one's respect for the dignity of another especially in a sexual context. Sex with one's spouse is not against chastity so long as both remain open to having children—using [[contraception|contraceptives]] violates true chastity. The [[Roman Catholic Church]] also regards as unchaste [[masturbation]] and use of [[contraceptive]]s, even within the confines of marriage, while most Protestant Christian denominations disagree. |
| − | A number of mainstream magazines have focused on the concerns of many parents about what is happening to young children in our increasingly sexualized culture. In October 2001, Good Housekeeping ran an article titled "Surviving Britney Spears"—with the subtitle: "What to do when your preteen worships this latter-day Lolita." Britney is a risquй role model for young girls, and "has created a persona about as virginal as Madonna’s" (p. 103). Parading through videos in cropped-tops and bikinis, she has incredible appeal to girls as young as eight or nine.
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| − | Popular culture in the Western world takes sexual activity outside of marriage as a given. Whether it is the steamy love scenes in the movie Titanic or the provocative images on the latest music videos, young teenagers are increasingly immersed in an erotic world. The results are quite evident if you just look around the campuses of most American middle schools. Many young girls, barely into their teens, look and act like prostitutes! While civil libertarians would be outraged at the idea of Bibles being given away to teenagers in such a venue, the fact that condoms and abortions should be made available without parental knowledge or consent seems normal to them!
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| − | Teenage promiscuity still causes some concerns in our society, but adult promiscuity, on the other hand, hardly raises an eyebrow anymore. As late as the 1950s and 1960s, it was called "living in sin" and was actually illegal in virtually every state of the Union. Today, according to American Demographics magazine, the most common household composition in the United States (32 percent) consists of an unmarried couple without children (December 2000, p. 59). U.S. News & World Report called unmarried co-habitation a "shadow issue" in the family values debate. "Unlike divorce or unwed childbearing, the trend toward cohabitation has inspired virtually no public comment or criticism" (March 13, 2000, p. 48). In an earlier article on the same subject, USN&WR made the observation that premarital sexual activity was something that even most churches were loathe to talk about anymore. "Condemnation of adult premarital sex has virtually vanished from religious preaching" (May 19, 1997, p. 57).
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| − | What are the consequences of these attitudes and behaviors? Jennifer Grossman, an MSNBC-TV contributor, succinctly observed in an interview with U.S. News & World Report that "people are surfeited with sex—and yet we’re starved for love" (May 19, 1997, p. 58). All of the hippie-era talk of "free love" has proven to be quite a misnomer. It was not real love, and it has been anything but free! Many social ills have resulted, including growing numbers of illegitimate births, single-parent households, abortions, and sexually transmitted diseases. But that is not all. Both domestic violence and child abuse occur with far greater frequency in households where the partners are not married to one another, but are merely "shacking up."
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| − | In a speech given at Hillsdale College on November 15, 2000, a recent university graduate and author made some very telling observations. Wendy Shalit titled her address "Modesty Revisited." In introducing her topic to an audience of college students and faculty members, she observed that "the vocabulary of modesty has largely dropped from our cultural consciousness." She went on to explain that modesty’s loss had been social pathology’s gain. "Many of the problems we hear about today—sexual harassment, date rape, young women who suffer from eating disorders and report feeling a lack of control over their bodies—are all connected, I believe, to our culture’s attack on modesty. Listen, first, to the words we use to describe intimacy: what once was called ‘making love,’ and then ‘having sex,’ is now ‘hooking up’—like airplanes refueling in flight" (reprinted in Imprimis, March 2001).
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| − | Be the Primary Influence in Your Children’s Lives
| + | According to [[Judaism|Jewish]] [[law]], sex and acts that are likely to lead to sex are only allowed within the context of a marriage. Sex is not merely a means of physical gratification, but an important act that requires commitment and responsibility. The requirement of [[marriage]] before [[sex]] ensures that sense of commitment and [[responsibility]]. Out of respect for a woman's body, Jewish law also forbids sexual relations among married persons during or shortly after [[menstrual cycle|menstruation]], and for a period of time after the [[childbirth|birth of a child]]. |
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| − | The point is that this world does not offer a very healthy set of values and attitudes to your children. Some parents, when looking at the influence of school, media, and peer groups, are ready to give up and conclude that it is a lost cause. Many "baby boomers," looking back on the excesses of their own youth, have lacked both the moral certainty and the courage to give their own children strong values. Without moral certainty, it is impossible to even have firm values to convey. As the twentieth century progressed, the Bible was increasingly ignored and shunted aside as an absolute guide and authority for life. Belief in a sovereign Creator God gave way to belief in evolution. Moral ambiguity replaced moral certainty.
| + | The [[Qur'an]] states, "the believers are… those who protect their sexual organs except from their spouses… Therefore, whosoever seeks more beyond that… are the transgressors" (23:5-6). [[Muslim]] [[scholars]] say this statement makes it very clear that any sexual gratification outside marriage is considered a transgression of the law of God. |
| − | However, even many religious parents have been shocked and disappointed by their children’s moral choices. In some cases this has been because they naively assumed that if they tried to live by biblical standards of morality in their own life, their children would just automatically copy. This is not necessarily the case, because there are many other influences at work on your children than just your personal example. What, then, can be done?
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| − | Parents cannot be the only influence in their children’s lives, but if they have the will to do so, they can certainly be the dominant influence. Those who recognize the value of chastity, and want their children to recognize its value, are involved in a culture war with the world around. How can you effectively combat the influence of contemporary society? How can you ensure that you are the dominant influence in your children’s lives?
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| − | First, you must seek to make your home a godly oasis in the midst of a corrupt world. One simple starting point is to greatly restrict (or even eliminate) television. Do not allow children to isolate themselves from the family, holed up in their rooms, tuned into their own music and surfing the web on their own computers. When my sons were growing up, for instance, we never had fights about the music they were listening to. The reason was very simple. We had only one source of music in our home—a stereo in the living room, which we listened to together as a family! By choosing the appropriate music, my wife and I helped set the mood and the atmosphere we wanted in our home.
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| − | Second, you must set careful limits in the amount of association you allow your children with neighbors and schoolmates. Children must be guided and restricted in their choice of friends and playmates. Do not naively assume that others will not improperly influence your child. Know those with whom your children spend time, and ensure proper supervision of their play and activities.
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| − | Finally, spend time with your children. Seek to make family and church the focus of your children’s social life. If your children spend most of their time in settings where people with differing values are their primary influence, why would you expect your child to embrace your values? Have family meals around the dining table, take family trips, go camping and hiking. Do things! Worship God together as a family. This not only includes going to church services as a family, it also includes having family prayer and Bible study. It is important to regularly spend time together with your children—talking, listening, visiting and teaching. While you certainly cannot control all of the future choices your children will make, never lose sight of the fact that you can greatly influence those choices if you are willing to make the effort.
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| − | Fostering Attitudes of Purity
| + | ===Eastern religions=== |
| | + | ''Hinduism:'' [[Hinduism]]'s view on premarital sex is rooted in its concept of the stages of [[life]]. The first of these stages, known as ''brahmacharya,'' roughly translates as chastity. Celibacy is considered to be the appropriate behavior for both [[male]] and [[female]] [[students]] during this stage, which precedes the stage of the married householder. Many [[Sadhus]] (Hindu monks) are also celibate as part of their [[asceticism|ascetic]] discipline. At the same time, it should be noted that prior to the arrival and spread of [[Islam]] in [[India]], Hinduism was, by and large, a religion that celebrated the practice of sexuality within the context of marriage, producing famous manuals on the art of lovemaking such as the [[Kama Sutra]]. In classical Hinduism, sexual intercourse was seen as a sacred act. |
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| − | We have all heard the adage, "you are what you eat." While this is true nutritionally, it is just as true mentally. Our mental diet has much to do with shaping the kind of person that we become. The Apostle Paul emphasized: "Finally brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things" (Philippians 4:8). We cannot foster attitudes of purity in our children if we allow them to constantly feed their minds on trash. Violent, sexually explicit television shows, movies, and video games make for a destructive mental diet.
| + | ''Jainism:'' Although the [[Digambara]] followers of [[Jainism]] are celibate monks, most Jains belong to the [[Shevtambara]] sect, which allows spouses and children. The general Jain code of [[ethics]] requires that one do no harm to any living being in thought, action, or word. Adultery is clearly a violation of a moral agreement with one's spouse, and therefore forbidden, and fornication too is seen as a violation of the state of chastity. |
| − | From lullabies to stirring martial tunes, music can create or enhance virtually any mood. In addition to the atmosphere created by a song’s mood, we must also consider its words and message. Lyrics that are angry, rebellious and vulgar, or that celebrate fornication or adultery, convey an inappropriate message. With music videos, the effect of the message is multiplied, as the impression received through the ears is reinforced by what is received through the eyes.
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| − | Purity involves a way of thinking, and is not merely a matter of avoiding certain prurient behavior. Entertainment and the arts should elevate the human spirit by celebrating what is good and noble, and what is pure and lovely. Parents who wish to foster purity in their children will be very careful in the music, movies and books that they allow.
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| − | The Apostle Paul explained to the young minister Titus that he should encourage the older women to teach the younger women principles of modesty and chastity. It is important for parents and older friends and family members to help provide guidance for young girls in this area. Skirts that are too short and tight, plunging necklines, high slits and other similar styles are designed to send a sexually seductive message to men. While many young women would deny this is their intention and say that it is just "the style," their parents need to help them grasp that, regardless of their motive for doing so, they are projecting an image that is seductive and sexually arousing to men. No godly young woman would ever want to dress or behave in a way that would make it harder for a young man to keep his thoughts pure. Unless girls are actively taught, they just do not understand the difference between the male and female mind. An inner attitude of purity and modesty should be conveyed through dress and grooming as well as behavior.
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| − | In the context of teaching young people to avoid styles that wrongly emphasize sexuality, parents have a duty to explain in a positive way about God’s approach to sex. God made us male and female and He said that it was very good! Teaching about sex should be presented by explaining that it is a precious gift that God has given. If it is used properly, it plays a vital part in what was designed by God to be the most wonderfully happy of human relationships, marriage. When sex is misused, it produces hurt and pain that can wreck entire lives. Young people should be taught that much of their future happiness will depend upon learning to cherish purity. Purity is a necessary attitude in every happy, healthy marriage.
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| − | Not only must there be proper teaching and explanation, but young people also need to be given proper boundaries that will safeguard purity. For teenagers to be allowed to pair off and date in the modern sense is to encourage intimacy without commitment. The Apostle Paul commanded, "flee youthful lusts" (2 Timothy 2:22). Those who are not married should avoid being alone in intimate situations. Proper boundaries that are set early on, and drilled into young people from the beginning, can help them avoid dangerous situations later on. Young people have lots of hormones and little experience with life. They need guidance and supervision.
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| − | Purity can be cultivated and fostered in your family, even though we live in the midst of a corrupt and impure world. Go to God for His help and blessing. Realize that parents can encourage a mental diet of what is wholesome and uplifting. This must be coupled with teaching young people to value and cultivate an image that reflects purity. Taken together with positive teaching and establishing safe and healthy boundaries, parents have at their disposal tactics that make a difficult battle very much winnable.
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| − | Protecting and Encouraging Chastity
| + | ''Buddhism:'' The teachings of [[Buddhism]] include the noble eightfold path, involving a prohibition against sexual misconduct. All Theravada and most Mahayana Buddhist orders of monks and nuns are expected to be celibate, and the violation of this state is considered to produce very negative [[karma|karmic]] consequences. The [[Vajrayana]] orders allow exceptions to this rule as an ''[[upaya]]'' (skill in means) in achieving higher stages of enlightenment. These orders may permit monks and nuns to marry and practice [[Tantra|Tantric]] sex between them. Promiscuous and unskillful relations tainted by lust would be against the dharma. Hence, almost all Buddhist societies hold to traditional views about marriage and family life, considering both adultery and fornication to be unchaste acts. |
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| − | During childhood and adolescence, we lay the foundation for marriage and family. The values promoted by contemporary society undermine chastity and purity among young people. They do this in everything from clothing styles to entertainment. In addition, contemporary dating practices further advance the immorality agenda. Make no mistake about it: there is nothing more destructive to building a happy, loving marriage than immorality!
| + | ''Paganism:'' [[Pagans]] have no set rules against [[premarital sex]], [[homosexuality]], [[masturbation]], or [[nudity]]. However, sex is viewed as the generative force in [[nature]] and is seen by most pagans as something utterly sacred. The physical act of love is to be approached with great respect and responsibility. While pre-marital sex is not forbidden, adultery may violate a sacred trust between man and woman, unless both parties stipulate otherwise. |
| − | It is vital for young people to understand that commitment is intended to precede intimacy. In contemporary western society young people pair off at an early age. They "go steady" even in middle school, much less high school and college. It is taken for granted that teenagers will have their girlfriends or boyfriends. Of course, these so-called steady relationships are anything but steady! Breaking up regularly, these young people quickly begin to cast about for another "steady." They are not really prepared—either emotionally or financially—to marry for years to come. However, contemporary dating practices ensure that—long before the commitment of marriage—opportunities come early for greater and greater intimacy. When children are engaging in "necking" and "petting" as early teens, how long will it be before they have full intercourse?
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| − | The intimate behavior of prolonged kissing and caressing is sexually stimulating and was intended by the Creator to be the arousal portion of the sexual act. As such it belongs only in marriage and should not be engaged in by those who are unmarried. With the dating practices that are generally taken for granted in our culture, however, intimate practices are fostered and encouraged. Movies, television, books and magazines all promote this sort of behavior as acceptable and normal.
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| − | The Bible clearly teaches that all sexual activity outside of marriage is sin (1 Corinthians 6:9–10)! If virginity is to be maintained until marriage, then chastity and purity must be nurtured and protected. This helps lay a foundation for future faithfulness in marriage. With both younger children and teenagers, parents have responsibility to teach and to guide. They are also responsible for protecting their children from situations that they may not be able to handle. Young people should not simply be left to themselves or allowed to pair off. It is a recipe for disaster.
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| − | It is natural that young people want to spend time together—and there is nothing wrong with that. Social activities can be very enjoyable, and are important to young people. Such activities are best, however, when held in the context of entire families getting together. Picnics, outings to the bowling alley or the skating rink, or trips to sports, musical and cultural events need not involve each teenager pairing off with someone of the opposite sex. These should be group activities involving friends of both sexes. After all, youth is a time to develop a wide variety of friendships. Learning to have healthy friendships with members of the opposite sex is very important preparation for future courtship and marriage.
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| − | In Western culture, dating has become confused with courtship, and distinctions between the two have been lost. Single dating is really what used to be called courtship, and should be reserved for those who are old enough to pursue marriage seriously. Until that time comes, developing a variety of friends, and participating in group activities, is the best social outlet for young people.
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| − | If chastity and purity have great value, then it stands to reason that this value must be explained and taught to our young people. They certainly will not receive this message at school or from the movies, so if they are going to hear it at all, it must be at home and at church. Immorality is not glamorous and romantic; rather, it produces serious and potentially life-wrecking consequences. It not only frequently leads to disease and unwanted pregnancy, but also to hurt, confusion, and guilt. Casual sex cheapens and degrades what the Creator designed to be shared by two married people in a special relationship that they do not have with any other human being. To protect purity, not only must the value of it be understood and appreciated, but also potentially tempting or compromising situations must be avoided. Strong emotions are at work and many young people have kidded themselves that they could "handle" the situation, only to find out to their future regret that they could not. If you plan to avoid engaging in intimate behavior before you are married, then you should start by avoiding being in intimate settings that are located away from the eyes of others (Proverbs 15:3)!
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| − | Chastity and purity are guardians of the sanctity of marriage and the family. The family is the basic building block of society. No nation can be stronger than its homes. Chastity and purity are qualities that can only be passed on to the next generation if they are not only deeply valued and cherished, but also actively taught and encouraged. Difficult? You bet! But never lose sight of the fact that it is possible to teach chastity in an unchaste world.
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| − | ===Abstinence education===
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| − | Sexual abstinence is the practice of voluntarily refraining from some or all aspects of sexual activity. Common reasons to deliberately abstain from the physical expression of sexual desire include religious or philosophical reasons (e.g. chastity), material reasons (to prevent conception (undesired pregnancy) or STD transmission), psycho-sociological reasons (e.g. clinical depression, social anxiety disorder), negative past experiences, or to conform to legal injunctions.
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| − | Federal funding for abstinence education is on the rise: a proposed $191 million dollars for 2008, up $28 million from 2007. But recent studies are raising questions, finding no difference in sexual activity between kids with abstinence education and those without.
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| − | Proponents of abstinence say the studies are not reflective of the nearly 700 abstinence programs out there. And muddying the waters further is the fact that before the big push for abstinence and since 1991, teenage pregnancy and birth rates have been falling.
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| − | Abstinence advocates recommend it as a way to avoid pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Without sexual contact, it is virtually impossible to conceive a child (other than through artificial insemination). By avoiding exposure of the sexual organs to other people, one will also avoid the sexual transmission of many diseases (STDs). Note, however, that many STDs can also be transmitted non-sexually. Some STDs (including genital warts due to human papillomavirus) are passed through skin-to-skin contact and are either not prevented by using a condom or only partially effective. Further, some have noted that many do not consider oral sex or similar acts to violate abstinence. One study states that 55 percent of college students claiming abstinence had indeed performed oral sex. Many of these acts can transmit STDs.
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| − | However, critics note that many abstinence education programs include information that although true, is misleading. For example, many programs exaggerate the risks of oral sex; the risk of exposure to HIV through saliva is significantly less than through exposure to semen. Furthermore, HIV is far more likely to be transmitted through saliva when the recipient is already infected with another sexually transmitted infection, such as syphilis. Epidemiological studies from sub-Saharan Africa, Europe and North America have suggested that there is approximately a four times greater risk of becoming infected with HIV in the presence of a genital ulcer such as those caused by syphilis and/or chancroid.
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| − | Advocates also claim other benefits, such as the freedom from teenage pregnancy and resulting ability to focus on education and preparing for their future.
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| − | Many critics of abstinence promotion programs claim that these programs are not an effective way to decrease the occurrence of diseases and unwanted pregnancies. While supporters claim that abstinence is the only 100% successful birth control method, detractors point out that abstinence is 100% effective only with perfect use. Detractors further claim that human nature leads to a high failure rate in practice.
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| − | While some teens may have weak sexual desire or few sexual opportunities and thus be able to maintain it successfully, others will have stronger desires, more opportunities or act under the influence of drugs, and will in these situations not be prepared to take precautions (using condoms or other contraceptives). Worse, they may consider the independent acquisition of information about precautionary measures shameful and avoid it altogether.
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| − | Pregnancy can also be avoided through selective sexual abstinence. This method is generally known as fertility awareness or natural family planning. In order to be effective, the partners must abstain from coitus for a time sufficient to ensure that no spermatazoa (lifespan up to 5-6 days) are able to fertilize an ovum (lifespan up to 48 hours). There are a variety of types of fertility awareness. Observational systems such as the sympto-thermo method can have correct use failure rates as low as one percent per year under perfect use with a two-week abstinence period (According to the WHO, this method has an estimated 25 percent failure rate under ordinary use.) Statistical methods such as the Standard Days Method have higher correct-use failure rates.
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| − | Organizations such as SIECUS have called abstinence-only programs "fear-based", "designed to control young people’s sexual behavior by instilling fear, shame, and guilt." Author Judith Levine has argued that there might be a natural tendency of abstinence educators to escalate their messages: "Like advertising, which must continually jack up its seduction just to stay visible as other advertising proliferates, abstinence education had to make sex scarier and scarier and, at the same time, chastity sweeter." (Harmful to Minors, p.108)
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| − | In spite of these criticisms, abstinence has become the de facto focus of sex education in the United States, so that opponents frequently adopt the line that abstinence education is acceptable only if it is combined with other methods, such as instruction in the use of condoms and easy availability thereof. Most nations of Western Europe use more comprehensive measures, and in sharp contrast to the heated discussion in the US, abstinence is hardly discussed as an educational measure.
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| − | U.S. federal government promoted abstinence-only program aimed at teens from the 1981 in order to discourage premarital sexual behavior and unwanted pregnancies. However, recent studies showed ineffectiveness of this program. Responsible Education About Life Act, that was introduced by Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) and Representatives Barbara Lee (D-CA) and Christopher Shays (R-CT) to support age-appropriate sexual education. This program is focused to provide teenagers with science-based information on sexual health so that they could make a sound decision regarding their sex life.
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| | ==Notes== | | ==Notes== |
| − | <div class="references-small" style="-moz-column-count:2; column-count:2;"> | + | <references /> |
| − | <references /> </div>
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| | ==References== | | ==References== |
| − | *Evert, Jason. ''If You Really Love Me: 100 Questions on Dating, Relationships, and Sexual Purity'', Catholic Answers, 2003. ISBN 978-1569553695 | + | *Evert, Jason. ''If You Really Love Me: 100 Questions on Dating, Relationships, and Sexual Purity''. Catholic Answers, 2003. ISBN 978-1569553695. |
| − | *Krishnamurti, J. ''The Mirror of Relationship: Love, Sex, and Chastity'', Krishnamurti Publications of America, 2007. ISBN 978-1888004908 | + | *Krishnamurti, J. ''The Mirror of Relationship: Love, Sex, and Chastity''. Krishnamurti Publications of America, 2007. ISBN 978-1888004908. |
| − | *Padgett, Chris, & Padgett, Linda. ''Not Ready for Marriage, Not Ready for Sex: One Couple's Return to Chastity'', Servant Publications, 2006. ISBN 978-0867167450 | + | * Levine, Judith. ''Harmful to Minors: The Perils of Protecting Children from Sex''. Thunder's Mouth Press, 2003. ISBN 978-1560255161. |
| − | *Panzer, Richard. ''Relationship Training: A Course in Character and Relationships'', Center For Educational Media, 2000. ISBN 978-1888933130 | + | *Padgett, Chris, and Linda Padgett. ''Not Ready for Marriage, Not Ready for Sex: One Couple's Return to Chastity''. Servant Publications, 2006. ISBN 978-0867167450. |
| − | *Suell, Tamara A. ''The Single Man's Guide to Chastity'', PublishAmerica, 2006. ISBN 978-1424104840 | + | *Panzer, Richard. ''Relationship Training: A Course in Character and Relationships''. Center For Educational Media, 2000. ISBN 978-1888933130. |
| | + | *Suell, Tamara A. ''The Single Man's Guide to Chastity''. PublishAmerica, 2006. ISBN 978-1424104840. |
| | | | |
| | ==External links== | | ==External links== |
| − | *[http://www.vatican.va/archive/catechism/p3s2c2a6.htm Catechism of the Catholic Church (III.2.I)]
| + | All links retrieved December 4, 2023. |
| − | *[http://www.passtheword.org/SHAKER-MANUSCRIPTS/Abstinence/shaker-abst-x1.htm Early Shaker Writings Relating to Sexual Abstinence] | + | |
| | + | *[http://www.passtheword.org/SHAKER-MANUSCRIPTS/Abstinence/shaker-abst-x1.htm Early Shaker Writings Relating to Sexual Abstinence] ''www.passtheword.org''. |
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| | [[Category:philosophy and religion]] | | [[Category:philosophy and religion]] |
| | {{Credit|150961591}} | | {{Credit|150961591}} |
Allegory of chastity by Hans Memling.
Chastity is a virtue concerning the state of purity of the mind and body. Chastity includes abstinence from sexual intimacy for the unmarried, and faithfulness to a marriage partner. Pre-marital virginity (abstinence) is the form of chastity expected of young people. Sexually active married couples are also considered to practice chastity if they remain faithful to their marital vows. Finally, chastity includes abstention from all sexual activity (celibacy).
Chastity is seen as undergirding marriage; sexual acts outside of marriage are considered sinful, both because they are spiritually damaging to the individual and because they undermine and destroy the family. (On the deleterious effects of premarital sex on subsequent marriage, see sexual abstinence).
Traditional societies enforced the norms of premarital virginity and marital fidelity backed by strong community sanctions and even by force of law. These norms of chastity have been expected of the faithful of all the major religions, including Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus and Confucianists. However, in the modern West, particularly since the sexual revolution of the 1960s, these norms have fallen by the wayside, replaced by widespread acceptance of casual sex before marriage, cohabitation in place of marriage, and extra-marital affairs even when they lead to divorce. In the current cultural climate, some see sexual restraint as unnatural, even unhealthy.
In attempting to combat the current permissive climate, social conservatives in the United States are advocating abstinence-based sex education, and municipalities and churches are promoting marriage education to prepare newlyweds for the challenges of maintaining faithful marriages. These efforts aim at restoring a "marriage culture" where chastity is prized. Strong marriages, undergirded by the virtue of chastity, provide economic, psychological, and social benefits to both the married couple and their children.
Classical origin
The word derives from the Latin castitas, the abstract form of castus, which originally meant a pure state of conformity with the Greco-Roman religion. As the etymological link suggests, castigation, chastisement, and in the extreme case, even castration originally relate to the use of harsh means to preserve or restore this state of purity. This meaning is preserved fully in the parallel term "chastening."
In ancient times, the value of chastity was highly debated in both the homosexual and heterosexual spheres. In particular, Socrates was an advocate of chastity between male teachers and their students, in opposition to the sexually expressed pedagogic relationships prevalent in his time. Plato, having transmitted many of these teachings, has become the eponym for this type of chastity, known today as Platonic love (as opposed to romantic love).
Inter-religious view of chastity
Marriage
Religious teachings maintain that fidelity within marriage is vital to the health of the marriage and ensuing family. Beliefs in the sacredness of marriage and human sexuality provide reasons for abstinence prior to marriage, fidelity to one's spouse after marriage, and lifelong abstinence if a person does not marry.
In the context of traditional marriage, the spouses commit to a lifelong relationship which excludes the possibility of sexual intimacy with other persons.
Virginity
Virgin with a unicorn. In western mythology, the unicorn is a symbol of virginity.
Virginity, the physical state of innocent sexual purity, has often been a requirement for certain religious functions, especially as priests and priestesses. For example, Vestal Virgins in Ancient Rome were required to be virgins, and remain so until they left office at about age 40.
The status of virginity is respected and valued in certain societies, particularly when there are religious views regarding sexual conduct before marriage. A woman who is a virgin is also sometimes referred to as a maiden.
Female virginity is closely interwoven with personal or even family honor in many cultures. Traditionally in some cultures, there has been a widespread belief that the loss of virginity before marriage is a matter of deep shame. In some cultures (for example the Bantu of South Africa), virginity testing or even surgical procedures guaranteeing premarital abstinence (infibulation—The stitching together of the vulva, often after a clitoridectomy, leaving a small opening for the passage of urine and menstrual blood, or the similar stitching of the prepuce)[1] are commonplace. This would typically involve personal inspection by a female elder.
In Western marriage ceremonies, brides traditionally wear veils and white wedding dresses, which are believed by many to be symbols of virginity. In fact, wearing white is a comparatively recent custom among western brides, who previously wore whatever colors they wished or simply their best dress. Wearing white became a matter first of fashion and then of tradition over the course of the nineteenth century.
Celibacy
Celibacy refers to an individual having decided to refrain from sexual activity (sexual abstinence), or to remain unmarried. Also known as "consecrated virginity," celibacy usually refers to ordained clergy or persons in religious orders, and is an avowed way of living in which the person forsakes all sexual gratification.
Chastity is a requirement for monks and some priests in many religious traditions.
Some religions require celibacy of their priests, regarding sexual purity as essential in order to perform the rites and rituals that connect the people to heaven. Others regard the priestly function more in terms of ministering to the people, and thus a healthy marriage is considered as good if not better than celibacy. In monastic orders, a vow of sexual abstinence is often viewed as essential in order to align one's mind and spirit to the path of spiritual growth, renouncing cares of the physical world, which include sexual relationships. Philosophers, too, have taken this path.
The Roman Catholic Church requires a promise of celibacy prior to ordination to the diaconate by both secular clerics and "religious" in perpetual vows. Married men can be ordained only by dispensation of the Holy See. By contrast, marriage is accepted or even encouraged for priests in the Anglican and many Protestant churches. In the Eastern Orthodox Church traditions, celibacy is not required of secular priests but is required in monastic orders, from which bishops are selected. In virtually all Christian traditions, celibacy is usually required of monastics—monks, nuns, and friars.
Vows of chastity (celibacy) can also be taken by laypersons, either as part of an organized religious life (such as Roman Catholic Beguines and Beghards) or on an individual basis, as a voluntary act of devotion and/or as part of an ascetic lifestyle, often devoted to contemplation. The voluntary aspect has led it to be included among the counsels of perfection.
In some religions, celibate monastic life is commonly practiced as a temporary phase, as by many men in Buddhism.
Abrahamic religions
Traditionally, acts of a sexual nature are prohibited outside of marriage in Islamic and Judeo-Christian ethical contexts, and are considered sinful. Since offenses against the virtue of chastity are most often expressed as fornication or adultery, the term has become closely associated with sexual abstinence in common usage throughout most of the English-speaking world.
In Roman Catholic teaching, chastity is one of the Seven holy virtues, opposing the deadly sin of lust. Everyone is called to chastity be they married, single, or in a religious order. Chastity is a function of one's respect for the dignity of another especially in a sexual context. Sex with one's spouse is not against chastity so long as both remain open to having children—using contraceptives violates true chastity. The Roman Catholic Church also regards as unchaste masturbation and use of contraceptives, even within the confines of marriage, while most Protestant Christian denominations disagree.
According to Jewish law, sex and acts that are likely to lead to sex are only allowed within the context of a marriage. Sex is not merely a means of physical gratification, but an important act that requires commitment and responsibility. The requirement of marriage before sex ensures that sense of commitment and responsibility. Out of respect for a woman's body, Jewish law also forbids sexual relations among married persons during or shortly after menstruation, and for a period of time after the birth of a child.
The Qur'an states, "the believers are… those who protect their sexual organs except from their spouses… Therefore, whosoever seeks more beyond that… are the transgressors" (23:5-6). Muslim scholars say this statement makes it very clear that any sexual gratification outside marriage is considered a transgression of the law of God.
Eastern religions
Hinduism: Hinduism's view on premarital sex is rooted in its concept of the stages of life. The first of these stages, known as brahmacharya, roughly translates as chastity. Celibacy is considered to be the appropriate behavior for both male and female students during this stage, which precedes the stage of the married householder. Many Sadhus (Hindu monks) are also celibate as part of their ascetic discipline. At the same time, it should be noted that prior to the arrival and spread of Islam in India, Hinduism was, by and large, a religion that celebrated the practice of sexuality within the context of marriage, producing famous manuals on the art of lovemaking such as the Kama Sutra. In classical Hinduism, sexual intercourse was seen as a sacred act.
Jainism: Although the Digambara followers of Jainism are celibate monks, most Jains belong to the Shevtambara sect, which allows spouses and children. The general Jain code of ethics requires that one do no harm to any living being in thought, action, or word. Adultery is clearly a violation of a moral agreement with one's spouse, and therefore forbidden, and fornication too is seen as a violation of the state of chastity.
Buddhism: The teachings of Buddhism include the noble eightfold path, involving a prohibition against sexual misconduct. All Theravada and most Mahayana Buddhist orders of monks and nuns are expected to be celibate, and the violation of this state is considered to produce very negative karmic consequences. The Vajrayana orders allow exceptions to this rule as an upaya (skill in means) in achieving higher stages of enlightenment. These orders may permit monks and nuns to marry and practice Tantric sex between them. Promiscuous and unskillful relations tainted by lust would be against the dharma. Hence, almost all Buddhist societies hold to traditional views about marriage and family life, considering both adultery and fornication to be unchaste acts.
Paganism: Pagans have no set rules against premarital sex, homosexuality, masturbation, or nudity. However, sex is viewed as the generative force in nature and is seen by most pagans as something utterly sacred. The physical act of love is to be approached with great respect and responsibility. While pre-marital sex is not forbidden, adultery may violate a sacred trust between man and woman, unless both parties stipulate otherwise.
Notes
- ↑ Dictionary.com, Homepage. Retrieved December 30, 2007.
References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees
- Evert, Jason. If You Really Love Me: 100 Questions on Dating, Relationships, and Sexual Purity. Catholic Answers, 2003. ISBN 978-1569553695.
- Krishnamurti, J. The Mirror of Relationship: Love, Sex, and Chastity. Krishnamurti Publications of America, 2007. ISBN 978-1888004908.
- Levine, Judith. Harmful to Minors: The Perils of Protecting Children from Sex. Thunder's Mouth Press, 2003. ISBN 978-1560255161.
- Padgett, Chris, and Linda Padgett. Not Ready for Marriage, Not Ready for Sex: One Couple's Return to Chastity. Servant Publications, 2006. ISBN 978-0867167450.
- Panzer, Richard. Relationship Training: A Course in Character and Relationships. Center For Educational Media, 2000. ISBN 978-1888933130.
- Suell, Tamara A. The Single Man's Guide to Chastity. PublishAmerica, 2006. ISBN 978-1424104840.
External links
All links retrieved December 4, 2023.
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