Free Essay: Sikhism Views on Marriage, Love and Sexuality
Sikhism views on marriage, love and sexuality are based on the fact that chastity is an important aspect in the teachings of Sikh. This is because divine spark of God or Waheguru is considered present in the body of human beings. As such, the human body should always be kept perfect and clean.
Sikhs are expected to avoid things that can harm their human body. For this reason, indulgence in sexual activities should be limited to the married couple. Extra-marital and pre-marital sex in Sikhism is forbidden. Marriage is viewed as a sacrament in Sikhism. It is a sacred bond that enables Sikhs to attain worldly and spiritual joy.
Marriage ceremony on Sikhism is known as Anand Kaaraj. Literally, this means a bliss ceremony. It is given this name because it brings two souls together in a union where they strive to achieve perfect harmony by living together. It is important to note that Sikhism does not provide for divorce although divorces occur.
Sexuality is viewed as an innate sexual drive or nature in humans. However, Sikhism does not subscribe to the notion of a free-for-all sex. Laxity in the sexual behaviors is viewed as a wrong and lustful action. As such, marriage is recommended as the path that can help in managing sexual drive. Sikhism views lust as one of five main vices that should be desisted by any Sikh. The other four vices are pride, materialism, anger and greed.
Love is used in describing the attachment that one Sikh has for the other. Sex implies a sexual intercourse that a male and a female have in the Sikhism community. Sex should only be between married couples. Monogamy, cleanliness and chastity are highly encouraged in Sikhism.
Sikhs are encouraged to love one another and to treat each other justly. A female that is older than a male Sikh is considered as a mother while an age mate female is considered a sister and one that is younger a daughter.
Marriage is viewed as a serious commitment before God whose purpose is to provide companionship. It also helps in the spiritual path of the couples instead of just sexual enjoyment. Marriage is seen as a union of two bodies into one soul. Therefore, wife and husband are expected to be faithful to each other.
Sex life can be regulated by a couple in the marriage. There are Sikhs who believe that avoiding sexual intercourse can help in the achievement of divine love. Although homosexuality is not mentioned by Guru Granth Sahib, some Sikhs do not consider it wrong but Sikhs are encouraged to marry and contribute in the creation of Waheguru.
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Online Sources:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/rs/relationships/sikhloveandsexrev1.shtml
http://www.sikhchic.com/resource_library/marriage_in_sikhism_part_ii_anand_kaaraj
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhism_and_sexual_orientation