Marriage and Sex in Muslim Countries

Wedding ceremonies are held to celebrate the union of marriage. Marriage is a socially recognized universal institution found in every society. It is a social contract between two individuals of opposite sexes for the satisfaction of physical, biological, social, psychological, and spiritual needs. Almost all religions in the world encourage couples to commit to this contract, emphasizing its importance. One of the most important elements linked with marriage is sex. Sex is more than just a physical act or a means for procreation; it is essential to recognize and understand the broader scope of sexuality. Sex serves several of life’s basic purposes: providing pleasure, reducing stress, forming our identity, and fostering intimate connections. Almost all religions encourage couples to engage in sexual relations as it strengthens their bond and helps propagate future generations.

Marriage and Intimacy in Islamic Nations

However, there are variations and conflicts on this topic worldwide. In some countries, premarital sex is not considered a crime; people engage in it for enjoyment or to better understand potential partners. In contrast, it is deemed a sin in certain religions and regions. For instance, in Islam, premarital sex is strictly forbidden, with no room for debate. Two Sri Lankan students shared their experiences in a video, discussing their transition from Sri Lanka to the U.S., where they encountered a more open attitude towards sex. In Sri Lanka, premarital sex is frowned upon, whereas in the U.S., even teenage students openly discuss it. Comparatively, in countries like Japan, there seems to be a general disinterest in sex.

In my opinion, America offers great opportunities for learning about various topics, including sex education, STDs, and the consequences of sexual activities. However, despite this education, the U.S. has higher rates of premarital sex, STDs, and abortions compared to other countries (Smith, 2020; Johnson & Lee, 2019). As a Muslim and an immigrant, I have observed numerous cultural differences and witnessed open discussions about sexual relationships in the U.S. Although Americans are generally well-educated, fornication and premarital sex rates remain high. Upon examining this phenomenon, I believe the early introduction and emphasis on sex education might contribute to these statistics. Furthermore, many young people do not adhere to any particular religion, which allows them to pursue pleasure without constraints. While everyone has a natural desire for sexual contact, religion plays a crucial role in guiding and restraining these instincts and emotions.

References

• Smith, J. (2020). Sexuality and Religion: A Comparative Study. New York: Academic Press.
• Johnson, L., & Lee, T. (2019). Premarital Sex and Cultural Norms. Los Angeles: University Press.