KOSHER SEX

Abstract

It is important to understand the religion of our patients to make better interventions in sex therapy. Therefore, the specialized courses teach the Judeo-Christian influences on sexuality. This article seeks to understand the particularities of the Jewish conception of sexuality, which seems to differ in some points from the Christian. The Jewish attitude toward sexuality is influenced by how Judaism encourages questioning. The rules serve to guide and can be questioned and adjusted according to each situation. Sexuality is not dealt with guilt or shame. Sex is seen as an ultimate form of knowledge of the other and is valued and encouraged. The great purpose is precisely the intimacy of the couple and procreation. Not sex itself, simply, but the resulting marital intimacy. Consequently, almost all attitudes that lead to greater intimacy of the couple is allowed. Even sperm spill. However pleasure without intimacy is not encouraged. The article discusses how masturbation, oral sex and the use of erotic material are covered by Judaism. Although sex is only valued in heterosexual marriages, yet pleasure is estimated as part of love. It is important to bear in mind the difference of the Jewish proposal regarding guilt, pleasure incentive and the main purpose in intimacy. This perspective is not a result of modern times. It is the foundation of an ancient religion that always evoked the importance of pleasure for the welfare of the faithful.