A Level Religious Studies - Buddhism and Sex
Using your knowledge of Buddhism and extra research, what are most Buddhists likely to say about extra-marital sex? Complete sexual continence is considered an essential feature of the monastic life. Intercourse is automatically a Parajika offense. A monk who performs such is considered to have expelled himself from the Order, and is no longer in communion with the other monks. Any acts of a sexually unbecoming nature falling short of intercourse result in suspension and require expiation. Samaneras, or novice monks, who break their training in this respect are disrobed. What, it may be asked, of "adultery," i.e., extra-marital sexual relations? The short answer is that, quite obviously, this is something to be avoided. But the point should be made that Buddhism does not regard this, or any other sexual irregularities and deviations, as somehow uniquely wicked. Buddhists should try to behave themselves sexually — but they should learn to exercise the...