Rasmond Gigg
One of the most frequently referenced stories when discussing masturbation in the Bible is the tale of Onan in Genesis 38:9-10. But Onan knew that the child would not be his; so whenever he slept with his brother’s wife, he spilled his semen on the ground to keep from providing offspring for his brother. What he did was wicked in the LORD’s sight; so the LORD put him to death also,
However, a closer look reveals that Onan’s sin was not merely the act itself but his refusal to fulfill his duty to his deceased brother by providing an heir, as per the levirate marriage custom.
About Masturbation?
His act was seen as disobedience to God’s command and an act of selfishness rather than a direct statement about masturbation.
Leviticus 15: Laws About Sexual Cleanliness
Leviticus 15 contains laws about bodily discharges and cleanliness. Verses 16-18 specifically address the emission of semen, stating that both the man and the woman involved must wash and remain unclean until evening.
While these passages primarily focus on ritual cleanliness and purity, they do highlight the biblical perspective on sexual emissions and the importance of maintaining purity.
Porn and Masturbation in the Bible
Job 31:1
Job 31:1 states, “I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a young woman.” This verse emphasizes the importance of controlling one’s thoughts and desires, which can be related to the modern-day issue of pornography.
The underlying message is the value of purity and the commitment to avoid lustful thoughts that can lead to actions like masturbation.
Matthew 5:28
In Matthew 5:28, Jesus teaches, “But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
This verse underscores the significance of inner purity and the sinfulness of lustful thoughts, which often accompany masturbation, especially when pornography is involved.
Does the Bible Address Self-Satisfaction?
Matthew 6:33
Matthew 6:33 advises, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
This verse encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God and seek spiritual fulfillment over physical satisfaction, including self-satisfaction.
1 Corinthians 7:4
1 Corinthians 7:4 says, “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.”
This passage speaks to the mutuality of sexual relations within marriage, suggesting that sexual satisfaction is intended to be a shared experience rather than a solitary one.
Galatians 5:1
Galatians 5:1 proclaims, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
This verse can be interpreted to mean that believers should not be enslaved by their desires, including the habit of masturbation, but should instead live in the freedom provided by Christ.
Galatians 5:16
Galatians 5:16 advises, “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
This verse highlights the importance of living according to the Spirit and resisting fleshly desires, which can encompass acts like masturbation.
Philippians 2:4
Philippians 2:4 states, “Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
This verse encourages believers to focus on serving others rather than indulging in self-centered behaviors, which can include masturbation.
2 Timothy 2:22
2 Timothy 2:22 urges, “Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
This exhortation to flee youthful lusts can be applied to the practice of masturbation, promoting a life of purity and righteousness instead.
More Bible Verses That Address Masturbation
1 Corinthians 6:18
1 Corinthians 6:18 instructs, “Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.”
This verse emphasizes the seriousness of sexual sin and the importance of maintaining sexual purity.
Galatians 5:19
Galatians 5:19 lists “sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery” as acts of the sinful nature. Masturbation, especially when accompanied by lustful thoughts or pornography, can be considered a form of impurity.
Ephesians 5:3
Ephesians 5:3 states, “But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.” This verse underscores the call to live a life free from sexual immorality and impurity.
Colossians 3:5
Colossians 3:5 commands, “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.”
This passage encourages believers to reject behaviors and thoughts that lead to sin, which can include masturbation.
1 Thessalonians 4:3
1 Thessalonians 4:3 asserts, “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality.”
This verse highlights the importance of sanctification and avoidance of sexual immorality in the life of a believer.
Does the Bible Say Masturbation is a Sin?
The Bible does not explicitly state that masturbation is a sin. However, many of the verses and teachings discussed emphasize the importance of sexual purity, controlling lustful thoughts, and prioritizing one’s relationship with God.
These principles can be applied to the practice of masturbation, particularly when it is accompanied by lustful thoughts or the use of pornography.
Ultimately, whether masturbation is considered a sin can depend on individual interpretation and the context in which it occurs. The Bible encourages believers to seek purity, control their desires, and live according to the Spirit.
These overarching principles suggest that masturbation, especially when it involves lust or becomes a habit that detracts from one’s spiritual life, may not align with the biblical call to holiness.
Do You Want to Stop Masturbating?
If you struggle with masturbation and feel that it conflicts with your faith or personal values, here are some steps you can take to address it:
- Prayer and Meditation: Seek God’s guidance and strength through prayer and meditation on His word.
- Accountability: Find a trusted friend, mentor, or counselor to talk to about your struggles and hold you accountable.
- Focus on Positive Activities: Engage in activities that distract you from temptation, such as hobbies, sports, or volunteer work.
- Seek Professional Help: If masturbation has become a compulsive behavior, consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor.
- Study Scripture: Regularly study the Bible and reflect on verses that encourage purity and self-control.
Also read: See What Happens to Your Brain as You Age
Remember, everyone faces challenges, and it’s important to approach this journey with grace and perseverance. The goal is to align your actions with your values and live a life that honors your faith and personal convictions.
FAQs Related to what does the bible say about masturbation
What does the Bible say about touching yourself?
The Bible does not explicitly mention the act of touching oneself or masturbation. However, it does provide guidance on sexual purity and the control of lustful thoughts, which are often related to the discussion of masturbation. Key biblical principles that can be applied include:
- Matthew 5:28: Jesus teaches that looking at someone with lustful intent is akin to committing adultery in one’s heart. This suggests that maintaining pure thoughts is crucial.
- 1 Corinthians 6:18: Paul advises believers to “flee from sexual immorality,” indicating the importance of avoiding behaviors and thoughts that lead to sexual impurity.
- Galatians 5:16: Believers are encouraged to “walk by the Spirit” to avoid gratifying the desires of the flesh, which can include sexual acts that are self-focused and not aligned with spiritual purity.
While touching oneself is not directly addressed, the emphasis on purity, self-control, and avoiding lustful thoughts implies that actions leading to impurity should be avoided.
What does the Bible say about releasing sperm?
The Bible addresses the release of sperm in the context of ritual cleanliness and sexual behavior:
- Leviticus 15:16-18: This passage outlines the laws concerning bodily discharges, including the emission of semen. It states that a man who has an emission of semen must bathe and remain unclean until evening, emphasizing the need for ritual cleanliness.
- Genesis 38:9-10: The story of Onan is often cited in discussions about the improper use of sperm. Onan’s act of spilling his seed on the ground is condemned, but it is important to note that his sin was related to his refusal to fulfill his levirate marriage duty rather than the act of emission itself.
These passages focus on the context of sexual behavior and ritual purity rather than providing a direct commentary on the act of releasing sperm itself. The underlying biblical principles emphasize obedience to God’s commands, the importance of ritual cleanliness, and the proper context for sexual relations.
Conclusion:
The Bible does not explicitly mention masturbation but emphasizes sexual purity, self-control, and managing lustful thoughts.
Believers should strive to honor God in their thoughts and actions. If you struggle with this issue, seek guidance through prayer, scripture, and accountability.
Reflect on your actions, seek spiritual fulfillment, and prioritize your relationship with God. If you need support, reach out to a trusted friend, mentor, or counselor to help you on this journey.
