Significance of Sexual desire
Sexual desire is a complex and multifaceted concept explored in various traditions including Buddhism, Jainism, and others. It encompasses powerful emotions that can disrupt balance and responsibilities, serve as a motivation for intimate acts, and is often viewed negatively due to its potential to lead to moral dilemmas. In religious texts, it is described as a natural instinct, driving personal relationships and societal behaviors. Additionally, the desire can manifest in different forms, affecting emotional and physical well-being across cultures.
Synonyms: Libido, Sexual attraction, Desire, Carnal desire, Passion, Lust., Lust, Sexual appetite
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Sexual desire'
In Buddhism, sexual desire is seen as a disruptive craving that can overshadow essential relationships, lead to harmful actions, and is ultimately viewed negatively within the Dharma, despite misinterpretations by some teachers.
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary by Hsuan Hua)
(1) A powerful attachment that leads individuals to commit harmful actions, resulting in heavy karmic consequences.[1] (2) A craving that is viewed negatively within the Dharma teachings but is misrepresented by deviant teachers as acceptable.[2] (3) An intensified impulse that can result from consuming certain foods like the five pungent plants and meat.[3]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A strong emotional attachment or longing for sexual interaction, which Brahmadevaraja has eliminated without residue.[4]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) A powerful form of desire that can disrupt balance and control, leading one to forget important relationships and responsibilities.[5]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) The longing associated with attraction to one's own gender or the opposite sex, which feeds into cravings.[6]
Hindu concept of 'Sexual desire'
In Hinduism, sexual desire is a complex concept embodying natural attraction, moral dilemmas, societal norms, and personal conflicts, highlighting its cultural significance and inherent human instincts while advocating for restraint and understanding of its impacts.
From: The Padma Purana
(1) The intense attraction and longing that Vritra feels upon seeing Rambha.[7] (2) A natural temptation that Adrohaka is noted for conquering, which is described as difficult to overcome.[8] (3) A strong longing or craving for sexual intimacy, experienced by characters such as Vritra towards Rambha.[9]
From: The Skanda Purana
(1) A prohibited emotion that a householder must control, especially concerning the wives of others.[10]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A concept mentioned in relation to the emotional turmoil experienced by Kamsa’s wives following his death.[11]
From: The Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) The element kindled in Sayambhuva Manu and Satarupa through the god of love.[12]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) The interest or drive to engage in sexual activity, which can be diminished by negative effects of lead.[13] (2) An increase in sexual appetite or interest, enhanced by consuming the wine named gaudi.[14] (3) An effect associated with Bhanga that increases libido.[15] (4) Sexual desire refers to the effect of Madhuki in increasing one's interest in sexual activity.[16]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry
(1) A strong feeling of wanting sexual activity, identified as one of the causes of fever that the medicine can cure.[17]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The driving force behind the gandharva marriage, emphasizing the connection between personal attraction and the acceptance of such unions in society.[18]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) A powerful driving force depicted in the text, often leading to moral conflicts and societal dilemmas.[19]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Desire of a sexual nature, which is included under the prohibition of association with women.[20]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) A key component of Kama, indicating the inherent human instinct and longing for sexual relations, which is described as both natural and culturally significant.[21]
Jain concept of 'Sexual desire'
In Jainism, sexual desire serves as a motivating force for interactions between men and women, specifically leading to maithuna, thereby differentiating such actions from mere friendships or companionships.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) A driving force behind certain activities of a man and woman, which specifically leads to the act of maithuna, distinguishing these activities from mere companionship.[22]