Originally posted by crescent:
Hi all
Here are a few questions that i need enlightenment. Please share ur inputs and ur views on the below mentioned:
1) How does buddhism view the act of sex? With sex comes dirty thoughts but sex seems to be so natural to us human being. Should we refrain from it?
Sex is fine for lay Buddhists. But it should not be done elsewhere other than our faithful partner - wife or husband. Meaning extra marital affairs fall under the category of 'sexual misconduct' and there is bad karma for that. The fourth precept in Buddhism is 'Do not have sexual misconduct'. In other words there must be ethics in sexual activity.
2) How does buddhism view the act of masturbation? Its is similarily a very common sexual act performed by both males and females. It is especially mind-provoking because it is initiated by dirty thoughts and a uncontrolled mind. Should we refrain from it?
There is no particular rule about masturbation for lay Buddhist, but is outlawed for monastic community.
One may try to restrict himself from thinking dirty thoughts and masturbating too much. It needs practise and it will certainly help if you know the correct way of Buddhist practise. So one should learn the dharma, and most importantly, practise. (Can refer to your previous thread for an introduction to the buddhist practise of purification..
What defines what.)
Through practise, one can release the bondage from all thoughts, and also our body.
I apologise for been so crude.
It's ok.