With
reference to the question you have asked concerning the Baha'i attitude towards
the problem of sex and its relation to marriage: The Baha'i Teachings on this
matter, which is of such vital concern and about which there is such a wide
divergency of views, are very clear and emphatic. Briefly stated the Baha'i
conception of sex is based on the belief that chastity should be strictly
practised by both sexes, not only because it is in itself highly commendable
ethically, but also due to its being the only way to a happy and successful
marital life. Sex relationships of any form, outside marriage, are not
permissible therefore, and whoso violates this rule will not only be
responsible to God, but will incur the necessary punishment from society. The
Baha'i Faith recognizes the value of the sex impulse, but condemns its
illegitimate and improper expression such as free love, companionate marriage
and others, all of which it considers positively harmful to man and to the
society in which he lives. The proper use of the sex instinct is the natural
right of every individual, and it is precisely for this very purpose that the
institution of marriage has been established. The Baha'is do not believe in the
suppression of the sex impulse but in its regulation and control.
- Shoghi Effendi (From a
letter dated 5 September 1938 written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an
individual believer, included in a letter by the Universal House of Justice dated
6 February 1973 to all National Spiritual Assemblies; Messages from the
Universal House of Justice 1963-1986)
