Chastity

In a modern context, chastity is a term used to describe a state of purity or moral cleanliness as demonstrated by an individual’s actions, thoughts, and words. More specifically, chastity prescribes that individuals not have any sexual relations at all until they are married.

Some people argue that chastity has little to do with abstinence and the repression of sexual acts and desires. These people, who look to the original use of the term, say that chastity is simply about rejecting impure sexuality. They believe that while abstinence is about the habit of saying no, chastity is a virtue. Followers of true chastity value sexual fidelity, and believe that behaving in a chaste manner means directing all sexual desires and emotions towards their true love. It is about treating their partner with respect and putting their partner’s needs over their own personal gratification.

A vow of chastity is often taken by members of Christian churches. Early church fathers felt that chastity had three grades. The first, virginity, describes the point at which a person has no experience of sexual activity. The second, continence, describes a state wherein individuals control their sexual activity (through abstaining from ejaculation, for example). The final stage of chastity is matrimony, wherein individuals restrict sexual activity to interactions with their spouse.

Chastity is also celebrated in Buddishm, Daoism, Jainism, and Hinduism.