Celibacy and Religious Traditions

Whether celibacy is encouraged or discouraged, its role in a given religion gives insight into that tradition's worldview, social values, gender relations, ethics, and understanding of the body. Celibacy can contribute to the creation of status, play a role in the construction of identity, and serve as a source of charisma. In some traditions, it is possible to renounce sex and gain sacred status and economic support from society.

In this collection, fifteen scholars from four continents use examples from East and West and from ancient and modern cultures to show that celibacy differs cross-culturally and historically. Each chapter addresses such questions as, Is celibacy a prerequisite for religious office or status? Are there different contexts for the practice of celibacy? What does the choice of celibacy tell us about attitudes toward the human body? What is its symbolic significance? Is it connected to the acquisition of power? What are its physical or spiritual benefits? The first collection of its kind, this book is both a valuable resource for courses in world religions and a contribution to our understanding of this very widespread human phenomenon.