Significance of Sexual enjoyment
Sexual enjoyment encompasses a range of interpretations across various texts. According to Arthashastra, it involves the pleasure from sexual activity with potential legal consequences. Vaishnavism views it as potentially destructive to spiritual growth. The Purana highlights physical intimacy's desirability while cautioning against celibacy and moral conduct. In Kavya, it describes shared pleasures between specific figures. Vedanta connects sexual enjoyment to procreation, while Dharmashastra addresses lustful intentions in marriage. Kamashastra openly discusses the pursuit of sexual pleasure.
Synonyms: Pleasure, Sexual pleasure, Sexual gratification, Sensual enjoyment, Sexual delight, Intimacy, Carnal pleasure, Sexual satisfaction
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Sexual enjoyment'
In Hinduism, sexual enjoyment encompasses the pleasure from sexual activity, contrasting with spiritual pursuits, morally analyzed, and depicted in texts like the Kamasutra. It emphasizes physical intimacy's role and its implications on personal fulfillment and procreation.
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Refers to the physical pleasure associated with intimacy, which is deeply desired by Devahuti in the narrative.[1] (2) The pleasure experienced by the he-goat which remains unfulfilled despite repeated indulgence.[2]
From: Agni Purana
(1) A state of physical pleasure avoided in celibacy, which is considered eightfold in nature.[3]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The context in which the wearer of a Bhishma stone finds an upper hand in satisfying any number of wives.[4]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Pleasures derived from sexual activities, mentioned in the context of moral conduct for kings.[5]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Engagement in physical intimacy, considered destructive to spiritual pursuits and a hindrance to self-realization.[6] (2) Pleasure derived from sexual activities.[7]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Pleasure derived from physical intimacy, often contrasted with spiritual or divine fulfillment.[8]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) This is described as the only benefit gained from marrying another wife under lustful intentions, rather than for procreation.[9]
From: Yajnavalkya-smriti (Vyavaharadhyaya)—Critical study
(1) The act of engaging in sexual activities, especially in the context of illicit relationships.[10]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Referred to as ananda, it signifies the pleasure desired by man, stemming from the act of procreation.[11] (2) The act of engaging in sexual activities that provide pleasure, which is stated as necessary for procreation.[12]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) The pleasure derived from sexual activity, which may have legal implications depending on the circumstances.[13] (2) Promises of sexual relations that are considered improper if made to unworthy individuals.[14]
From: Bhishma Charitra
(1) The pleasurable experiences shared between Satyavati and Shantanu in their intimate relationship.[15]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) The pursuit of pleasure in sexual activities, presented in a frank and unashamed manner in the Kamasutra.[16]