You’d think the Bible, that bastion of old-school values, would have a strong opinion on the importance of physical intimacy in marriage, right? Well, buckle up, because the good book has a few unexpected things to say about the topic of what does the bible say about sexless marriages. From kinky to downright comical, the Bible’s stance on this touchy subject is sure to raise a few eyebrows (and maybe other body parts, wink wink).

10. The Curious Case of Onan

Remember Onan, that guy from the book of Genesis who refused to impregnate his brother’s wife? Turns out his “withdrawal” method didn’t sit too well with the Big Guy upstairs, and Onan ended up meeting an untimely demise. Was it because he was being a selfish jerk, or was there something more nefarious afoot, like a sexless marriage? You be the judge.

9. The Song of Solomon’s Racy Lyrics

If you thought the Bible was all about prudishness and repression, think again. The Song of Solomon reads like the world’s steamiest romance novel, complete with sensual descriptions that would make even the most seasoned erotica writer blush. Perhaps the good Lord was trying to send a not-so-subtle message about the importance of, ahem, marital bliss.

8. The Curious Case of Lot’s Daughters

Speaking of kinky biblical tales, let’s not forget the story of Lot’s daughters, who decided to get their old man drunk and seduce him. While this tale may raise a few ethical eyebrows, it does seem to suggest that the Bible wasn’t exactly opposed to, er, unconventional means of procreation. Maybe they were trying to combat a sexless marriage, who knows?

7. The Parable of the Withered Fig Tree

In the book of Matthew, Jesus curses a fig tree for not bearing fruit, causing it to wither and die. Some scholars believe this parable is a metaphor for the consequences of a sexless marriage, where the lack of “fruitfulness” (ahem) leads to spiritual and emotional decay. Or maybe Jesus just really, really loved figs. Either way, the message is clear: keep things hot and heavy, or else.

6. The Case of the Missing Consummation

In the book of Tobit, a young woman named Sarah is plagued by a demon who keeps killing off her husbands on their wedding night, before the marriage can be consummated. While this sounds more like the plot of a horror movie than a religious text, it does seem to suggest that the Bible viewed sexual intimacy as an essential part of a healthy marriage. Looks like sexless marriages were a big no-no back in the day.

5. The Curious Case of Hosea and Gomer

The prophet Hosea’s marriage to the promiscuous Gomer is a wild ride, to say the least. While the story is often interpreted as a metaphor for God’s relationship with Israel, the underlying message seems to be that a healthy sex life is crucial for a successful marriage. Maybe Hosea and Gomer could have benefited from a little couples therapy and some steamy nights between the sheets.

4. The Parable of the Unfaithful Spouse

In the book of Jeremiah, the Lord compares Israel’s unfaithfulness to a wife who has betrayed her husband. The implication here is that a sexless marriage is akin to spiritual adultery, a betrayal of the sacred bond between a husband and wife. Ouch, that’s gotta sting.

3. The Curious Case of the Levite’s Concubine

In the book of Judges, a Levite’s concubine is brutally gang-raped and murdered, sparking a bloody war. While this story is undoubtedly disturbing, it does seem to suggest that the Bible viewed sexual intimacy as an essential part of a healthy marriage. Perhaps the Levite and his concubine were suffering from a sexless marriage, and things took a tragic turn.

2. The Song of Solomon’s Steamy Advice

Just when you thought the Bible couldn’t get any racier, the Song of Solomon comes along and drops some seriously saucy advice. From descriptions of the beloved’s alluring body parts to passionate calls for lovemaking, this book is like the ancient world’s answer to “Fifty Shades of Grey.” Perhaps the good Lord was trying to tell us that a little “hanky-panky” is essential for a strong marriage.

1. The Curious Case of the Eunuchs

In the book of Matthew, Jesus makes a curious statement about eunuchs, suggesting that some are “born that way,” while others have been “made that way by others.” While the exact meaning of this passage is up for debate, it does seem to imply that the Bible recognized the existence of individuals who were physically unable to engage in sexual activity. Perhaps the Bible’s stance on sexless marriages was a bit more nuanced than we might have thought.

In conclusion, the Bible’s take on what does the bible say about sexless marriages is surprisingly complex and multifaceted. From the cautionary tale of Onan to the steamy lyrics of the Song of Solomon, the good book seems to suggest that sexual intimacy is an essential part of a healthy marriage. But it also acknowledges the reality of those who, for one reason or another, are unable to partake in such activities. So the next time you find yourself in a sexless marriage, remember: the Bible might just have a few unexpected insights to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are 5 FAQs related to the topic “What does the Bible say about sexless marriages”:

What does the Bible say about abstaining from sex in marriage?

The Bible emphasizes the importance of intimacy and sexual fulfillment within the context of marriage. In 1 Corinthians 7:3-5, the Apostle Paul instructs married couples not to deprive each other sexually, except for a limited time and by mutual consent, in order to devote themselves to prayer. However, the Bible also acknowledges that there may be times when abstinence is necessary, such as for health reasons or personal preferences. Ultimately, the Bible encourages open communication and mutual understanding between spouses regarding their sexual relationship.

How does the Bible view a sexless marriage?

The Bible does not explicitly address the issue of a completely sexless marriage. However, the overall biblical principles around marriage and sexuality suggest that a total lack of physical intimacy would be seen as a deviation from God’s design. The Bible emphasizes the importance of the “one flesh” union between husband and wife (Genesis 2:24) and views sex as a God-given gift to be enjoyed within the marriage relationship. While the Bible acknowledges that there may be seasons of abstinence, it does not condone a permanent, unresolved sexless state in marriage.

What does the Bible say about resolving issues in a sexless marriage?

The Bible encourages married couples to communicate openly and seek resolution for any challenges in their relationship, including issues related to physical intimacy. In Ephesians 5:21-33, the Bible instructs husbands and wives to submit to one another and to love each other sacrificially. This principle can apply to addressing a sexless marriage, where both partners should be willing to compromise, seek counseling if needed, and work together to restore sexual intimacy. The Bible also emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and grace within the marriage covenant.

How does the Bible view celibacy in marriage?

While the Bible upholds marriage and physical intimacy as the norm, it also acknowledges that there may be circumstances where a couple agrees to abstain from sex, either temporarily or permanently. In 1 Corinthians 7, the Apostle Paul discusses the option of celibacy for those who have the “gift” of being able to remain sexually abstinent. However, he cautions that this should only be done with the mutual consent of both spouses and for the purpose of devoting themselves to prayer and ministry. The Bible does not view celibacy in marriage as a requirement, but rather as a personal choice made by both partners.

What biblical principles can guide couples in a sexless marriage?

The Bible provides several principles that can help guide couples in a sexless marriage. These include:

1. Prioritizing communication and mutual understanding: The Bible encourages couples to be open and honest with each other about their needs and concerns (Ephesians 4:25).

2. Seeking to meet each other’s needs: The Bible instructs husbands and wives to love and serve one another sacrificially (Ephesians 5:21-33).

3. Cultivating emotional and spiritual intimacy: The Bible emphasizes the importance of a deeper, holistic connection between spouses beyond just physical intimacy (Song of Songs 5:16).

4. Pursuing growth and reconciliation: The Bible encourages couples to work through challenges with grace, forgiveness, and a desire to restore the relationship (Colossians 3:12-14).

5. Considering professional counseling: The Bible does not prohibit seeking guidance from trusted Christian counselors or therapists to address marital challenges (Proverbs 15:22).