The really good news: What the Bible says about sex
Haffner, D.W.
Siecus Report 26(1): 3-8
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0091-3995 PMID: 12348110 Document Number: 270865
According to this author's analysis of the Bible, its text reveals its usefulness as a theological tool capable of demonstrating a sexual theology that rejects attempts to limit experiences of sexuality or promote systematic oppression of sexuality. The Hebrew Bible covers many sexual themes in its stories, starting with an explanation of biological sex and the reason for two genders given in the creation stories and moving on to the importance of sexual intercourse for sexual pleasure as well as for procreation. Additional themes reviewed from the Hebrew Bible include physical beauty, love at first sight, fertility, genital and bodily functions, destructive uses of sexuality, sexuality in relationships, homosexuality, adultery, and celibacy. The Song of Solomon is the most overtly sexual book of the Bible, and the early Christian teachers attempted to present these verses as allegory and went so far as to warn that no one under the age of 30 should read the text. On the other hand, the New Testament contains little about sexuality with the exception of the First Letter of Paul to the Church in Corinth, which could be viewed as a first-century form of sexual instruction because it covers at least 17 sexuality topics, including anatomy, families, child rearing, values, decision making, communication, assertiveness, shared sexual behavior, and sexual desire, and provides information on bodies, love, marriage, gender roles, and sexuality. Thus, according to the author, the Bible is an important starting point in the struggle of many denominations with sexuality issues. She recommends that sexologists consider the sexual theology present in the Bible and its impact on the people they serve and that they spread the news that the Bible affirms a healthy and positive view of sexuality.