Masturbation And Sin: Biblical Perspective On Self-Pleasure

The Bible does not explicitly mention masturbation, but it does outline the purpose of sex, which is to be shared between a husband and wife. While the Bible does not directly address masturbation, it does speak of sexual immorality and lust as sins. Some interpret masturbation as a selfish act that falls outside of God's loving design, while others view it as a natural bodily function unrelated to sin. Ultimately, the Bible does not provide a clear-cut answer, leaving it open to interpretation and personal belief.

The Bible does not explicitly mention masturbation

The Bible does, however, outline the purpose of sex, stating that it should occur between a husband and wife, with each partner having authority over the other's body. This suggests that masturbation, as a solo act, is not in line with God's plan for sex.

Additionally, the Bible emphasizes the importance of self-control, which is considered a gift from God and a fruit of the Spirit. Masturbation, as an act of instant self-gratification, can be seen as the opposite of self-control.

While the Bible does not directly address masturbation, it does speak of sexual immorality and lust as sins. Masturbation is often associated with lustful thoughts and fantasies, which are considered sinful.

Some Christians argue that masturbation is a sin because it is a selfish act that satisfies temporal, sinful desires. It is argued that masturbation takes the beautiful, relational act of sex and makes it about personal gratification, rather than the selfless love God designed for us to live out.

However, others point out that the Bible does not specifically mention masturbation, and so it cannot be considered a sin. They argue that masturbation can be a healthy way to relieve sexual tension and that it does not always involve lustful thoughts or fantasies.

Ultimately, the Bible does not provide a clear answer on whether masturbation is a sin. Christians must use their own judgment and interpret biblical principles to guide their actions.

Some interpret the story of Onan in Genesis as condemning masturbation

The Bible does not explicitly mention masturbation or self-gratification. However, some interpret the story of Onan in Genesis as condemning masturbation. Onan was the second son of Judah, and he had a brother named Er and a younger brother named Shelah. When Er died, Onan was commanded by his father, Judah, to perform his duty as a husband's brother and procreate with Er's widow, Tamar, as was the custom of levirate marriage. However, Onan refused and "spilled his seed on the ground" because "the offspring would not be his." This act displeased Yahweh, who then put Onan to death.

The interpretation that sees Onan's actions as condemning masturbation stems from the belief that "spilling seed" or wasting semen is a sin. This view has been held by several early Christian writers and theologians, including Jerome, Epiphanius of Salamis, and John Calvin. They argued that the sexual act should only be for procreation and that deliberate withdrawal or non-procreative intercourse was sinful.

However, it is important to note that biblical scholars universally agree that the story of Onan is not about masturbation but about his refusal to fulfill his obligation of levirate marriage with Tamar. Onan's crime was not masturbation but coitus interruptus, which was seen as a rejection of the custom of levirate marriage already present in society. The narrative emphasizes the social and legal implications of Onan's actions, with Judah explaining Onan's duty to procreate with Tamar, which he deliberately avoided.

Masturbation is often associated with lust, which is considered a sin

In Matthew 5:28, Jesus states that even looking at someone with lust is committing adultery in one's heart. This suggests that masturbation fueled by lustful thoughts or fantasies is contrary to God's design for sexuality. Additionally, masturbation is seen as a selfish act that satisfies temporal, sinful desires rather than expressing selfless love.

The Bible's silence on masturbation has led to varying interpretations among Christians. Some view it as a sinful act of self-gratification, while others believe it is a normal bodily function unrelated to sin. However, the association with lustful thoughts and fantasies, which are considered sinful, is an important aspect to consider when discussing the morality of masturbation in a religious context.

Self-control is a virtue in the Bible, and masturbation is seen as its opposite

The Bible does not explicitly mention masturbation or self-gratification, leaving the interpretation open to debate. However, the Bible emphasizes self-control as a virtue and an act of obedience to God, which is considered a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Self-control is described as freedom from passions, requiring restraint, sober-mindedness, and devotion to God.

Masturbation, on the other hand, is viewed by some as an act of instant self-gratification, which is seen as the opposite of self-control. It is argued that masturbation stems from covetous desires that fall outside of God's loving design. It is considered a selfish act that satisfies one's temporal, sinful desires, often fueled by lust or fantasies.

The Bible's silence on the subject of masturbation has led to varying interpretations. Some argue that the absence of a direct reference does not mean it is condoned, especially when considered in the context of other biblical principles. For example, the Bible outlines God's plan for sex as being within the relationship of a husband and wife, involving the giving of one's body to another, and mutual satisfaction. Masturbation, being a solo act, is seen as contradicting these principles.

Additionally, the Bible speaks against lustful thoughts and sexual fantasies, which are often associated with masturbation. Jesus, in Matthew 5:27-30, speaks against having lustful thoughts, and in Matthew 5:28, he states that even looking at someone with lust is committing adultery in one's heart. This suggests that masturbation fueled by lustful thoughts or fantasies would be considered a sin.

In conclusion, while the Bible does not directly address masturbation, the principle of self-control, as well as the biblical perspective on the purpose of sex, suggest that masturbation is seen as an act that falls short of God's design and may be considered a sin when fueled by lustful thoughts or fantasies.

Masturbation may lead to a focus on personal pleasure rather than mutual intimacy in marriage

Masturbation can lead to a focus on personal pleasure rather than mutual intimacy in marriage. While the Bible does not directly address masturbation, it does outline the purpose of sex. According to 1 Corinthians 7:2–5, "Each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband. The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife. Do not deprive each other except perhaps by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control."

Masturbation is sex disconnected from a relationship. It is the keeping of one's body to oneself. It is done alone, not together. Marriage is the God-given outlet for sexual yearnings.

Masturbation can foster the belief that sexuality is purely about personal pleasure. This perspective can significantly impact one's ability to experience and express sexuality within the context of a loving, committed relationship. Many men and women who frequently masturbate may find it challenging to transition to a mutually satisfying sexual relationship once they are married. They become accustomed to responding only to their own touch and may struggle to connect intimately with their spouse.

When sexuality is viewed primarily as a means of self-gratification, it can create barriers to genuine intimacy. The focus shifts from a shared, loving experience to an isolated act centered on individual pleasure. This can lead to difficulties in building a healthy sexual relationship that involves giving and receiving pleasure mutually. Learning to respond to a partner's touch, understanding their needs, and fostering a deep emotional connection are crucial aspects of a fulfilling marital relationship.

Masturbation can lead to unrealistic expectations and frustrations within the marriage. A person who is used to self-pleasure might find it hard to be patient and attentive to their spouse's needs. The nuances of mutual sexual expression, which involve emotional intimacy, communication, and a willingness to prioritize each other's pleasure, can be overshadowed by ingrained habits of self-satisfaction and unhealthy masturbation.

It is important to develop a healthy perspective where sexuality is embraced as a vital part of a deep, loving marriage relationship, rather than merely a means for physical release.

Frequently asked questions