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An Orthodox understanding of sexuality is clear in the patristic tradition of the Church. This tradition is primarily associated with the origin of human sexuality'''Sex''', or '''sexual relations''', includes not only sexual intercourse, the purpose of marriagebut also other sexual activity, and even to the role extent of virginityhand-holding or kissing. When discussing In order to understand this, sex must be understood not only as a matter for the acceptable avenues for sexual interactionbody, one must but also analyze as a matter for the contemporary issues which threaten the Orthodox interpretation of healthy human sexuality; these threats are namely adultery and masturbationmind.

== Contemporary Context Purpose==''God created mankind with a sexual appetite. "Get ready for the best, most mind-blowing [A] man will leave his father and mother and fulfilling sex life ever. From toys to taboos, from arousal be united to orgasmhis wife, you'll find advice and support on all things sexual. Why not? You deserve itthey will become one flesh"'' ([[httpGenesis|Gen.]] 2://love24).ivillage.com/lnssex/topics/0 In its proper context of [[marriage]],,4tgp,00sex can be a good thing.html]!

Provactive lines as :"Sexual relations within marriage are holy and blessed by God. Saint [[Gregory the aboveTheologian]] says: 'Are you not yet married in the flesh? Do not fear this consecration; you are pure even after marriage' (''Oration on Holy Baptism'', quoted by George Gabriel, ''You May Call My Words Immodest'', find their way onto the cover pages of many popular magazinesp. 3). In most cases, they become headlines The sexual union of internet sites man and woman in returnChristian marriage is sanctified, set apart, hallowed, knowingly or unknowinglysacred, become the gauges for some people for measuring success and happiness in their lifeholy. And it is good. Society’s infatuation with sexual pleasure has reduced At the sanctity of conjugal relations making sexual fulfillment a temporary answer to many problems. In some cases, same time&mdash;and I cannot emphasize this point strongly enough&mdash;the Church teaches us clearly that sex drive is not ''the essence'' of an individual becomes an uncontrollable beastChristian marriage."<ref>''Preserve Them, which destructs familiesO Lord'' by Fr. John Mack. Ben Lomond, careersCalifornia, and most importantly the spiritual lives of it victimsConciliar Press: 1996. p. Most of these social catastrophes would not exist if sexuality was understood in terms of its origin and purpose116.</ref>

Contemporary society reduces sex to Sex provides an instinctive act used solely opportunity for a married couple to become intimate with one another.*"The goal of sex in marriage is spiritual union. Through the purpose joining of sexual gratification and entertainmenttwo physical bodies in marital love comes a unique oneness of soul. Sixty-four percent Saint [[John Chrysostom]] instructs us: 'Their intercourse accomplishes the joining of all shows on television include sexual contenttheir bodies, and only fifteen percent mention waitingthey are made one, protection, and the consequences of these types of acts just as when perfume is mixed with ointment" (TV Sex Getting ''"Safer12th Homily on Colossians'')."<ref>''Preserve Them, O Lord'' Kaiser Family Foundationby Fr. John Mack. [http Ben Lomond, California, Conciliar Press:1996. p. 119.<//wwwref>*"Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband" (I Cor.kff7:3).org*"Sexual relations provide an opportunity for the development of a spirit of [[martyr]]dom. This is the type of martyrdom that exhibits self-denial and submission to the other."<ref>''Preserve Them, 2003)O Lord'' by Fr. John Mack. Ben Lomond, California, Conciliar Press: 1996. p. 123.</ref>

Tom Clancy once said, ''"I believe that sex It is also important when speaking about sexual relations among spouses to speak about the product of this conjugal union. The creation of progeny is a natural consequence of marriage. There is a direct link between marital relations and childbearing. Procreation is one the fruit of the most beautiful, natural, wholesome things that money can buy"union of marriage and an expression of man's participation in God' (L’ Estranges creative work. St. John Chrysostom, Julianin reference to the mystery of the conjugal union, The Big Book of Sex Quotes 1001 Quips & Quotes. Newingtonsays: Cassell, 2002, 35).

Sex appeal :"And how become they one flesh? As if you should take the purest part of gold, and mingle it with the other gold; so in modern society means everything truth here also the women as it were receiving the richest part fused by pleasure, nourishes it and cherishes it, and throughout contributing her own share, restores it back to the man. And the child is everything! Seventy five percent a sort of prime time television in bridge so that the three become on flesh, the 1999-2000 season included sexual content (Sex child connecting, on TV: Content and Context. The Kaiser Family Foundationeither side, 5 Februaryeach to each… What then? When there is not child, 2001). With television surrounding families with sex and nuditywill they not be two? Not so, for their coming together has this effect; it is no wonder why these types of secular philosophies have brought about diffuse and commingles the faithless understanding bodies of human sexualityboth. Society And as one who has poured ointment into oil has managed to break down made the Christian understanding of this act, therefore making whole one; so in truth is it acceptable for all to hoard outside of marriagealso here" (St. For Orthodox Christians, howeverJohn Chrysostom, ''"sexual relationships outside of the marital relationship violate the inherent nature of things for a person growing toward Theosis"On Marriage and Family Life'' (Paramythiotis, Dositheos. Telephone interview. January 31, 2007).

Sexual relations in marriage are not the only Orthodox way of life to attain TheosisSt. The Orthodox Church honors John Chrysostom also says, "He created one from one, and highly reveres virginity, the state of Adam again these two he makes one and Eve (hereafter referred to as ''"the protoplasts"'') before their Fallthus He makes one; so that even now man is born from one. Contemporary society however, gives such For a state second-class honor. Celibacy woman and virginity a man are even labeled as not two but one man" (St. John Chrysostom, ''"unnatural,"On Marriage and Family Life'' despite, the witness of patristic tradition; it is the natural state of the protoplasts before the Fall). In With this essay, the patristic understanding of sexuality in terms great gift of the origin of humanity’s sexual naturechildbearing, man becomes the appropriate manifestation donor of sexual acts only within marriage, and the restoration life. St. [[Clement of Alexandria]] describes the sexual aspect progeny of the fallen nature through consecrated virginity will be explainedman as "man's creation in God's image."

== Origin :"Saint John Chrysostom writes: 'If for a certain period, you and your wife have abstained by agreement, perhaps for a time of Human Sexuality ==The origin of humanity’s sexual nature is present in prayer and fasting, come together again for the Old Testament book sake of Genesisyour marriage. ''"God created male and female"'' (Genesis 5:2) You do not need procreation as an excuse. It was is not until the fall where there was a physical attraction between man and womanchief reason for marriage. This attraction intended Neither is it necessary to lead to communion and union. In allow for the patristic traditionpossibility of conceiving, marriage is and thus having a consequence large number of the fall of the protoplasts. Athanasius the Great remarks that in Godchildren, something you may not want' (''On Virginity''s initial plan for man, marriage was not part of it: But the transgression of the commandment brought in marriage because Adam transgressed the law given to him quoted by God. Adam’s fall, which resulted to death[George] Gabriel, created the need of putting on [''"garments of skin"You Call My Words Immodest'' (Genesis ], p. 3:2). This garment is interpreted as man adapting to the condition that was created after the Fall and does not belong to the pre-Fall condition; it does not belong to the condition of the Kingdom of God. St. Gregory of Nyssa elaborates on the "<ref>''"irrational skinPreserve Them,"O Lord'' saying what man put on includes the following: marital relationsby Fr. John Mack. Ben Lomond, procreationCalifornia, food, growth, old age and death, none of which will exist in the transformation and assimilation of humanity in the Kingdom of HeavenConciliar Press: 1996. p. 118. </ref>

== Marriage an Adaptation There is much [[Holy Scripture|Scriptural]] basis to support marriage as the Fallen State ==Until humanity lives only context for eternity in sexual relations. The [[Song of Songs]] is often taken as a metaphor for marriage; similarly, the Kingdom relationship of Heaven, God has ordained and the [[Orthodox Church|Church]] is also likened to marriage as pathway leading to salvation. Marriage is a sort of adaptation to Union between the new condition parties of man created after marriage is therefore good. "Find joy with the fall of wife you married in your youth... Let hers be the protoplastscompany you keep .. St. Paul in his first epistle to hers the Corinthians makes recommendations on how people can avoid fornication by getting marriedlove that ever holds you captive" ([[Proverbs|Prov. According to the Apostle, true sexual relations can exist only within marriage, because marriage restores sexuality]] 5:19). In the Patristic tradition and in Holy Scripture this view "Marriage is presenthonorable among all, as it is apparent in Stand the bed undefiled" ([[Book of Hebrews|Heb. Paul’s Epistle to the Ephesians]] 13:4).

:God specifically created [[Adam and Eve|Eve]] for [[Adam and Eve|Adam]]'s benefit. This creation forms a new being, a new unit, even before there are children within a marriage. " 'It is not good for man to be alone,' but it is also positively good to be together."<ref name="whymate" /> Outside of marriage, one may engage in sexual activity because of one's own desires; sexual relations within marriage follow God's mandate to "… be one." Marriage provides a commitment and a man leaves his father family structure, so that a sexual relationship is uniquely provided with stability, security, the ability to work as a unit, and mother a basis for trust. "When sexual activity is kept within the bounds of life-long commitment, babies are more likely to survive and clings women more likely to his wife, feel secure and they become one fleshloved."<ref name="whymate"'' (Ephesians 5>[http:31)//www.frederica.com/writings/why-humans-mate.html Why Humans Mate] by Frederica Mathewes-Green</ref>

:''"…each man should have his own wife There are many centuries of evidence showing how the concept [of a nuclear family] works in practice: pretty good, usually resulting in the survival and each woman her own husbandsuccess of a new generation, humankind’s first responsibility. The husband should give to his wife her conjugal rightsBonuses of companionship, romantic love, pleasure and likewise the wife to her husbandjoy often appear as well. For the wife does not have authority over her own body In comparison, an ethic of sexual freedom, but where one in four pregnancies ends in abortion and the husband does; likewise the husband does not have authority over his own bodynumbers of children in single-parent homes keeps rising, but the wife doesfails this goal like clockwork. Do not deprive one another except perhaps by agreement Indicators for a set timesexually transmitted disease, divorce, abandonment, impoverishment of women and children, to devote yourselves to prayerunwed motherhood, and then come together again"'' (1 Corinthians 7:2abortion are at record levels; the heartbreak index is at an all-5)time high."<ref name="whymate" />

It is important good for one a child to understand have married parents, and sex within marriage best provides the child with this protection. "Marriage is not a license particularly important for unlimited marital relations, but an opportunity for asceticism. The ascetic character the rearing of children as they flourish best under the Christian life also covers the marital life long term care and nurture of the believerstheir father and mother."<ref>[http://www. According to Stnhclc. John Chrysostom marriage preserves purity, chastity, and even virginityorg/about/pdf/defenseofmarriage. doc A Letter from America's Religious Leaders in Defense of Marriage as a communion (DOC)] whose signers include His Eminence Archbishop [[Demetrios (Trakatellis) of persons is not restricted to the level America|Demetrios of matter and material sense; contrarily matter and material sense serve the communion America]], Primate of the person and Greek Orthodox Church in this wayAmerica, they acquire a spiritual content. and The prayers Most Blessed [[Herman (Swaiko) of the marriage service clearly address this pastoral issue. Washington and New York|Herman]], Archbishop of Washington and New York, Primate, The priest prays for the bed of the couple to remain ''"undefiledOrthodox Church in America."'' </ref>

Sexual arousal, intercourse, and gratification must not be Many couples keep the priority of crowns (''stefana'') from the couple; however, it is this act and pleasurable experience, which strengthens the bond of love between the couple and assists wedding service (often in a box or ''stefanothiki'') above the couple in growing closer to Christ. Fasting, prayers, continencemarriage bed, endurance another reminder of suffering are virtues expected not only for monasticism, but also for married couples. Marriage is to move constantly from the carnal to the spiritual perspective. Such progress is only possible within the perspective sanctity of the couple’s perfection in Christmarital love. The personal relations of the couple ought "They serve as a reminder that God has united them to be primarily spiritual in order each other and to preserve Himself and that He has bestowed His grace upon them to increase their spiritual communion live in unity, faith and unionlove."<ref>[http://www. This antiochian.org/1285 What is the reason why there cannot exist an independent ethic of sexuality according to the Fathers significance of the Church. wedding crowns?] ([[AOCA|Antiochian]])</ref>

It is also important when speaking about sexual relations among spouses to speak about Several of the [[Canon Law|canons]] of the product [[Council of this conjugal unionGangra]]<ref>[http://www. ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf214.viii.v.i.html The creation Council of progeny is a natural consequence Gangra]</ref> (ca. 325-381) uphold sex as part of marriage. There :*"If any one shall condemn marriage, or abominate and condemn a woman who is a direct link between spouse relations believer and child bearingdevout, and sleeps with her own husband, as though she could not enter the Kingdom [of heaven] let him be [[anathema]]" (Canon 1). Procreation is the fruit *"If any one shall remain virgin, or observe continence, abstaining from marriage because he abhors it, and not on account of the union of spouses beauty and an expression holiness of their participation in God’s creative work[[virginity]] itself, let him be anathema" (Canon 9). St. John Chrysostom in reference *"If any one of those who are living a virgin life for the mystery of Lord's sake shall treat arrogantly the conjugal union saying: married, let him be anathema" (Canon 10).*"If any woman shall forsake her husband, and resolve to depart from him because she abhors marriage, let her be anathema" (Canon 14).

:''"And how become they one flesh? As if you should take Canon 13 of the purest [[Quinisext Council]] upholds sex as a part of goldmarriage, and mingle even for [[ordination|ordained]] men::"Since we know it with to be handed down as a rule of the other gold; so in truth here also [[Church of Rome|Roman Church]] that those who are deemed worthy to be advanced to the women as it were receiving [[diaconate]] or [[presbyter]]ate should promise no longer to cohabit with their wives, we, preserving the richest part fused by pleasure, nourishes it ancient rule and cherishes it, [[Apostles|apostolic]] perfection and throughout contributing her own shareorder, restores it back to will that the manlawful marriages of men who are in [[Holy Orders|holy orders]] be from this time forward firm, by no means dissolving their union with their wives nor depriving them of their mutual intercourse at a convenient time. And the child is a sort of bridge so that the three become on flesh Wherefore, if anyone shall have been found worthy to be ordained [[subdeacon]], the child connectingor deacon, on either sideor presbyter, each he is by no means to each… What then? When there is not child, will they not be two? Not soprohibited from admittance to such a rank, for their coming together has this effect; even if he shall live with a lawful wife. Nor shall it diffuse and commingles be demanded of him at the bodies time of both. And his ordination that he promise to abstain from lawful intercourse with his wife: lest we should affect injuriously marriage constituted by God and blessed by his presence, as one who has poured ointment into oil has made the whole one[[Gospel]] saith: 'What God hath joined together let no man put asunder'; so in truth and the [[Apostle Paul|Apostle]] saith, 'Marriage is it also here"honourable and the bed undefiled'; and again, ' (St. John ChrysostomArt thou bound to a wife? seek not to be loosed. ''"On Marriage and Family Life"'')<ref>[http://www.ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf214.xiv.iii.xiv.html The Canons of the Council in Trullo: Canon XIII]</ref>

St==Marital fasting==:''See article: [[Fasting]]. John Chrysostom Although sex within marriage is often seen simply as "good," abstaining from sex also saysprovides its own good. This abstention, ''often referred to as "He created one from onemarital fasting, " should be voluntary on the part of both husband and again these two he makes wife. "Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and thus He makes one[[prayer]]; and come together again so that even now man is born Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control" (I Cor. 7:5). Marital fasting offers an opportunity to resist fleshly desires and redirect energies into worshiping God, just as one fasts from onethe desire for food. For a woman "Rather than repudiating the legitimate pleasure taken in eating and in marital relations, fasting assists us in liberating ourselves from greed and lust, so that both these things become not a man are not two means of private pleasure but one manan expression of interpersonal communion."'' (St<ref>[http://www.koed. John Chrysostomhu/mozaik10/dimitri. ''"On Marriage and Family Life"''pdf Christian Fasting (PDF)] by Dimitri Oikonomou). With this great gift </ref>Marital fasting is advised for all the usual times of childbearing man becomes the donor fasting, including before partaking of life[[Holy Communion]]. Clement "[A]s with all other spiritual efforts, this must be done under the Alexandrian describes supervision and at the progeny direction of man asa wise [[spiritual father]]."<ref name="townsend">[http://www.stmaryofegypt.org/devotion/on_fasting.htm Fasting for Orthodox Christians] by Fr. John Townsend</ref>"[Fasting] also involves abstinence from marital intercourse, not because there is anything evil in it&mdash;it is part of God''"man’s s creation &mdash;but to purify it and to provide us the opportunity to concentrate on the upbuilding of our lives in God’s imageChrist."'' <ref name="townsend" />

== Virginity as It is important for one to understand marriage is not a license for unlimited marital relations, but an opportunity for [[asceticism]]. The ascetic character of the Christian life also covers the Par Excellence marital life of Marriage ==Parallel the believers. According to the married lifeSt. John Chrysostom, marriage preserves purity, [[chastity]], Christian tradition and ethics recognize another equally challenging and rewarding lifestyle, that of even virginity. Virginal life consists Marriage as a communion of persons is not restricted to the level of virginity matter and material sense; contrarily, matter and purity in material sense serve the communion of the physical person and in this way, they acquire a spiritual aspectscontent. One may see The prayers of the marriage service clearly address this in pastoral issue; the priest prays for the life bed of Jesus Christ, the proto-type of this lifestylecouple to remain "undefiled. "

Chrysostom says Abstaining from sexual relations before (and outside of) marriage aids in regards to virginitythe ascetic practice of fasting from marital relations within marriage. Sexual arousal, intercourse, and gratification must not be the priority of the couple; however, :''"I am persuaded that virginity it is much more honorable than marriagethis act and pleasurable experience, but this does not force me which strengthens the bond of love between the couple and assists the couple in growing closer to place marriage amongst those that Christ. Fasting, prayers, continence, endurance of suffering are dishonorablevirtues expected not only for [[monasticism]], but rather I praise it"''(Stalso for married couples. John Chrysostom. ''"On Marriage and Family Life"'')is to move constantly from the carnal to the spiritual perspective. The acknowledgment of Such progress is only possible within the value perspective of marriage accentuates the superiority couple's perfection in Christ. The personal relations of virginity. Virginity supersedes the law, because it supersedes the fallen naturecouple ought to be primarily spiritual in order to preserve and to increase their spiritual communion and union. A virginal life prefigures This is the life reason why there cannot exist an independent ethic of sexuality according to the Kingdom [[Church Fathers|Fathers of God, where carnal desires and secular cares do not existthe Church]].

Virginity is a life filled with eschatological expectation==Celibacy==:''See main article: [[Celibacy]]. Virginal life does not come into contradiction with marriageUnmarried people should be celibate, but it that is its par excellence. St. Paul, although he refers to marriage as the ''"great mystery,"'' makes plain his preference for virginity, which is what he himself followedrefrain from sexual activity. Jesus Christ also says clearly in reference to virginity Those who have taken monastic vows, is or who have been ordained and are not for all to follow, but those whom this calling has been granted married (Matthew 19:11either unmarried or widowed). Choosing virginity places a human person above every social expediency or biological determinism, it underlines humanity’s freedom and absolute value. The human who practices a life of virginity lives as an angel, although having a body, lives like those among the bodiless powers. For this aforementioned reason, the possibilities of perfection following this lifestyle are numberless. On the contrary, the despising of marriage is an insult held to the magnitude of virginity. Marriage serves death by bringing forth children; however, virginity raises follow a barrier to its breaking and interrupting the transmission of the inherited obligation to deathcelibate life.

The goals Some of virginity and virginal living are not just to remain free of carnal pleasure, but they aim to emancipate a believer from secular cares and straighten the persons’ orientations towards God. Consecrated virginity Church teachings say that celibacy is a better than marriage with God that does not involve carnal pleasure. It is solely spiritual, while others hold them more equally. "One may say of the marital relations paradoxes of Christian [[ethics]] is that marriage are spiritual tooand celibacy, but if they have a carnal aspect. In virginitypresuppose different practical behaviors, are based on the voluntary self-exclusion from carnal pleasure does not aim to mortify Eros in same [[theology]] of the soulKingdom of God and, but to transform it into a godly Erostherefore, on the same spirituality. This virginity has its ultimate ontological reference to the Triune God"<ref>''Marriage: An Orthodox Perspective'' by Fr. [[John Meyendorff]]. Crestwood, New York, St. Vladimir's Seminary Press: 2000. p. 69. </ref>

== Contemporary Ethical Issues Which Threaten The goal of celibacy is not just to remain free of carnal pleasure, but to emancipate a believer from secular cares and orient the Sanctity of Sex ==person towards God.

=== Adultery ==='':"Adultery refers to voluntary sexual intercourse between a married man [B]oth marriage and celibacy are ways of living the Gospel, anticipating the Kingdom, which was already revealed in Christ and someone other than his wife or between must appear in strength at the last day. It is, therefore, only a married woman marriage 'in Christ' sealed by the Eucharist, and someone other than her husband"celibacy 'in the name of Christ,' (which carry this 'eschatological'Christian meaning&mdash;not marriage concluded casually, as a contract, or as a satisfaction for the flesh, and not celibacy accepted by inertia, or worse, by egotism and self-protective irresponsibility."Adultery"<ref>''Marriage: An Orthodox Perspective' in Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionaryby Fr. John Meyendorff. Crestwood, Eleventh EditionNew York, MerriamSt. Vladimir's Seminary Press: 2000. pp. 70-Webster, Inc., 2003)71.</ref>

St. Paul repeatedly attacks this vice in his Epistles. He urges ==Barrenness==Although children are a consequence of sexual relations, the flock inability to flee from sexual immorality because it procreate does not necessarily mean that sex is no longer a direct defiling of the temple of the Holy Spirit (Corinthians 7:18-20)good thing. In his Epistle to the Romans, St. Paul says plainly, those who live with a carnal mind live in enmity with GodOld Testament, thus convincing the faithful to believe they are not debtors to barrenness was often seen as the flesh (Romans 8:7-9). It is appropriate to understand that the Apostles were very concerned with the spiritual and physical purity result of the faithfulsin. To emphasize the severity of the carnal sin of adulteryHowever, many Old Testament figures underwent barrenness, Nikodemos the Hagiorite says in reference later to Leviticus 20: 10, :''"Adultery is such a great evil that conceive through God commands the man and the woman committing it to be put to death"'' (The Hagiorite, Nikodemos, The Exomologitarion. Trans. Fr. George Dokos. Republic of Greece, 2006)s will.

Society has slowly begun accepting adultery, because the sanctity of conjugal union has slowly demised. Society has separated Several saints are turned to especially with the divine aspects problem of marital relations barrenness and simplified sex to a carnal actchildlessness, including Ss. In another poll seven years ago[[Anna]], [[Elizabeth]], more than 3 out of 4 Americans say [[Roman the way television programs show sex encourages irresponsible sexual behavior Wonderworker]] (Teens[[November 27]]), Sex, & the Media. [www.mediascope.org[Hypatius of Rufinus]], 15 ([[March, 200031]]). The encouragement of immoral sexual behavior is clear, especially on the World Wide Weband [[Irene Chrysovalantou]]. For example, if a person is not satisfied with their spouse’s sexual performance, companies will facilitate for the customer an adulterous relationship<ref>[http://www. In particular, the Ashley Madison Agency assists married individuals in finding sexual gratification outside of marriageangelfire. ''"When monogamy becomes monotony,"'' is the commercialized slogan of this agency. Another online company that facilitates affairs is, the Meet to Cheat Company. This agency has offices all over Europe and North America and is dedicated to providing desperate homemakers with the man of their dreamscom/ga/riggs/SpecialSaints. html Orthodox Saints for Special Intentions]</ref>

Many Christian Churches also have begun accepting behavior ==Temptation==Just as with other desires of the flesh, the Orthodox Church believes is sinful and immoraltemptation to sin sexually often presents itself. Immoral thinking has managed In these cases, the mind must instruct the body as to take over the consciences of major denominationsright course. According to a report taken in 1991 by the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, :'' "it does Do not matter who sleeps with whom or whether sexual activity is premarital or maritalfollow your lusts, heterosexual or homosexualrestrain your desires. If you allow yourself to satisfy your desires, but whether it is responsible, mutual, honest and full this will make you the laughing-stock of joyful caringyour enemies"'' (A report to the General Assembly [[Wisdom of the Presbyterian Church, as reported by Peter Steinfels, "What God Really Thinks About Who Sleeps With Whom," The New York Times, June 2, 1991Sirach|Sirach]] 18:30-31).

=== Masturbation ===''"Masturbation refers Not only should one avoid yielding to the erotic stimulation especially of temptation, but one's own genital organs commonly resulting in orgasm and achieved by manual or other bodily contact exclusive should also take care not to offer temptation to others. "A wink of sexual intercoursethe eye, by instrumental manipulationand a man makes trouble; a bold rebuke, occasionally by sexual fantasies, or by various combinations of these agenciesand a man makes peace"'' (''"Masturbation"'' in Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Eleventh Edition, Merriam-Webster, IncProv., 200310:10).

Nikodemos the Hagiorite says, ''"masturbation is a sin so abhorrent King [[David]] allowed his desires to God that on account of it He put to death Onan, get the Son better of Judahhim when he desired Bathsheba, the Son wife of Jacob…"Uriah. After Bathsheba refused David'' (Genesis 38:10)s advances, David sent Uriah into battle, so that he would be killed. St. Paul in When the [[Prophet]] Nathan advised David that his epistle actions were displeasing to the Romans speaks clearly about the sinfulness of masturbation. He says God allowed men to be overtaken by the lusts of their hearts brining forth the dishonoring of their own bodies , David repented, confessing his sin (Romans 1:26)[[II Kingdoms|2 Sam. ''"This autoerotic activity is an improper expression of human sexuality because sex as an interpersonal relationship of many dimensions is impaired by it"'' (Stanly S. Harakas, Living the Faith. Minnesota]] 11: Light and Life. 1992. p. 13112).

Society however, has completely the opposite opinion of masturbation. P. J. O'Rourke said once, ''"Sophisticated persons masturbate without compunction. They do it for reasons of health, privacy, thrift and because of the remarkable perfection of invisible partners."'' [http://en[Monastic rule]]s often include injunctions to fight against sexual temptation.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cultural_references_to_masturbation#Celebrities]

In 1994==Sexual sin==Sexual [[sin]] may include adultery, Dr. Jocelyn Eldersfornication (including premarital sex), rape, incest, bestiality, prostitution, the first woman appointed to the position of U.S. Surgeon Generalpornography, lost her job as Surgeon General because she dared to say that masturbation should be taught in schools, sexual fantasies, and [[homosexuality|homosexual practices]]. Society portrays hedonistic lifestyles even in videos games, These are condemned by allowing characters to have the power Church not for their own sake, but to masturbate while riding in vehicles (Grand Theft Auto 2)protect her members from harming themselves and others through inappropriate behaviors. Sexual perversion has also infiltrated into the cartoon entertainment Note that sexual sin is not regarded as especially different from other types of children. Characters such as Homer Simpson confess openly sin, to masturbationwhich all are susceptible.

== Orthodoxy Today ==Although the contemporary society has surrounded Christian families with images of "It is important to note that sex in video games and cartoons, it is not an excuse for always 'good' just because it occurs within the acceptance confines of hedonistic ideologiesChristian marriage. Sex has enslaved In marriage, sexual relations which are the fruit of 'passionate lust' or are the culture to such an extent, it is found everywhere in publicexpression of violence and/or physical control are not blessed. Basic advertisements for many non-In Christian marriage, sexual things are loaded with images of sex relations must always be freely entered into and beautymust never be forced. It Manipulation in sexual matters is safe to sayalways inappropriate. Likewise, modern culture any sexual union outside of marriage is increasingly confusing pornographya union with death."<ref>''Preserve Them, philosophyO Lord'' by Fr. John Mack. Ben Lomond, artCalifornia, entertainment and sexConciliar Press: 1996. p. Consequently, contemporary thinking has even begun to chip away the foundations of Christian ethics and morals in society121.</ref>

Regardless of modern situationsThe [[ten commandments]] include injunctions against adultery and coveting a neighbor's wife (Ex. 20:14, the Orthodox Church believes sexual relations are only appropriate within marriage17). Marriage sanctifies and unites the carnal bond with Other books of the spiritual oneOld Testament, ultimately for the salvation of the couple. Marital relations are blessed because they unite the couple both spiritually such as Proverbs and physical. According to the witness Wisdom of Orthodox Fathers Sirach, also advise against sexual relations in marriage allow sins:*"Take no notice of a couple to become coloose-creators with Godliving woman, share a divine intimacyfor ... her words are smoother than oil, but their outcome is bitter as wormwood, and sharp as a avenue for controlling sexual desirestwo-edged sword. Although society promotes sexual immoralityHer feet go down to death..." (Prov. 5:2-5).*"But the adulterer has no sense; act like him and court your own destruction" (Prov. 6:32).*"This is how the adulteress behaves: when she has eaten, the Orthodox Church opposes such acts she wipes her mouth clean and their acceptancesays, 'I have done nothing wrong' " (Prov. 30:20).

== References ==St. Paul also wrote to the Corinthians with warnings:*"Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God" (I Cor. 6:9-11).*"Now the body is not for sexual immorality but for the Lord" (I Cor. 6:13).*Stanely S"[H]e who is joined to a harlot is one body with her. Harakas For 'the two,' He says, 'shall become one flesh'Living " (I Cor. 6:16).*"Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the Faithbody, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?" (I Cor. 6:18-19). "The libertines in Corinth&mdash;as some do today&mdash;argued that illicit sex (adultery and fornication) is as necessary for the body as eating, and both are irrelevant to the spiritual life. Paul contends the body belongs to God, and everything is relevant to the spiritual life. Therefore, dealing with sin means controlling our bodies."<ref>''The Orthodox Study Bible:New Testament and Psalms'', Minneapolisnote on I Cor. 6:13, p. 385.</ref> Sexual sin, just as any other sin, Minnesotanecessitates cleansing through the [[sacrament]] of [[confession]]. ==Confession and guidance==When one struggles with sexual issues, it is good to have a spiritual guide to assist in the struggle. The sacrament of confession not only provides the opportunity to shed past sins and to obtain guidance, but also to receive the grace of God through the sacrament. Marital fasting should also involve the guidance of a father confessor. ==See also==*[[Abortion]]*[[Birth control]]/[[Contraception]]*[[Chastity]]*[[Divorce]] ==Reference==<div class="small"><references /></div> ==External links==*[http://www.ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf112.iv.xx.html Homily on ColossiansXIX: 1 Cor. vii. 1, 2] by St. John Chrysostom*[http://www.ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf113.iv.iv.x.html Homily X. Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, vol: Colossians iii. 18–25] by St. John Chrysostom*[http://www.ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf113.iv.iv.xii. html Homily XII.: Colossians iv. 12, p13] by St. 304John Chrysostom*[http://www.ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf113.iii.iv.xxi.html Homily XX.: Ephesians v. 22–24] by St. John Chrysostom*[http://www.ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf109.xiv.ii.html Against Publishing the Errors of the Brethren], chapters 6-10 on Colossians Chapter 12barrenness and infertility, 5by St. John Chrysostom*[http://www.comeandseeicons.com/c/inp62.htm Orthodox Icon of the Conception of the Theotokos]*[http://www.oca.org/QA.asp?ID=230&SID=3 Church's view of masturbation] ([[OCA]])*[http://www.goarch.org/en/ourfaith/articles/article8076.asp For the Health of Body and Soul: An Eastern Orthodox Introduction to Bioethics] by Fr. [[Stanley S. Harakas]] ([[GOARCH]])*[http://www.frederica.com/writings/the-real-meaning-of-sex.html The Real Meaning of Sex] by [[Frederica Mathewes-Green]]*[http://www.frederica.com/writings/what-to-say-at-a-naked-party.html What to Say at a Naked Party] by Frederica Mathewes-Green*[http://www.frederica.com/writings/the-oneida-experiment.html The Oneida Experiment] by Frederica Mathewes-Green*[http://www.frederica.com/writings/lets-have-more-teen-pregnancy.html Let's Have More Teen Pregnancy] by Frederica Mathewes-Green*[http://www.frederica.com/writings/overthrown-by-eros.html Overthrown by Eros] by Frederica Mathewes-Green*[http://www.frederica.com/writings/born-that-way.html Born That Way] by Frederica Mathewes-Green*[http://realserver.goarch.org/ram/en/sexual_pur.ram Sexual Purity and Healthy Relationships (RAM)] video (GOARCH)*[http://www.orthodoxytoday.org/articles8/Morelli-Smart%20Marriage-XIII-The-Theology-of-Marriage-and-Sexuality.php Smart Marriage XIII: The Theology of Marriage and Sexuality] by Fr. George Morelli*[http://www.orthodoxytoday.org/articles6/MorelliHypersexuality.php "Sexual Addiction"&mdash;An Orthodox and Scientific View] by Fr. George Morelli Ph.D.*[http://www.orthodoxytoday.org/articles5/MorelliSexIsHoly.php Sex Is Holy: Psycho-Spiritual Reflections in a Secular World] by Rev. George Morelli*[http://atijournal.org/ATI_Vol4_No1.pdf There is No Sex in the Church] by Fr. Sergei Sveshnikov (ROCOR)