Sexual Relationships and Contraception- Judaism

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  • Created by: natv
  • Created on: 12-05-16 15:01

Pre-Marital Sex

Orthodox View:

  • They believe that pre-marital sex is wrong and is against God's law
  • 'If, however, the charge is true and no proof of the girls virginity can be found, she shall be brought to the door of her fathers house and there the men of her town shall stone her to death.'- They dont take this literally however, as this goes against the rules of society today.
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Pre-Marital Sex (Continued)

Reform View:

  • Most reform Jews would see sex only within marriage as the ideal.
  • However, there are certain circumstances where it is acceptable, for instance, in committed relationships or when you are engaged.
  • They understand that society's view of pre-marital sex has changed so it is no longer bad if you have sex outside of marriage.
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Adultery

  • Both Reform and Orthodox Jews believe that adultery is wrong as it states in the Ten Commandments 'Do not commit adultery'.
  • Circumstances have not changed in this case- marriage is still about faithfulness and adultery is still hurtful.
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Contraception

Orthodox View:

  • Jews believe that you must fulfill the mitzvah 'Be fruitful and multiply', which implies to have a decent sized family with at least 2 children. 
  • Therefore, they think that contraception is fine as long as you already have 2 children.

Reform View:

  • They understand that society has changed so believe that you can use contraception whenever but as long as you plan to eventually have 2 children.
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Types of Contraception

Orthodox View:

  • Due to the Story of Onan (when he spilled his semen on the ground to prevent his brother's wife from getting pregnant), Orthodox Jews think that it is wrong to use any type of contraception that distorts the natural act of sex.
  • Therefore, they believe using the Pill is acceptable but condoms are not. 

Reform View:

  • They believe that all forms of contraception are acceptable , however it should not be used selfishly (Orthodox Jews also agree with this).
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