Significance of Sexual union
Sexual union is a multifaceted concept across various spiritual and cultural traditions. In Buddhism, it encompasses meditative practices and harmonizing male and female energies towards enlightenment. Jainism views it as a shared experience among celestial beings, while Tibetan Buddhism emphasizes intimate connections that symbolize deeper spiritual realizations. Other traditions, such as Purana and Ayurveda, focus on the physical act of intercourse and its moral implications. The diverse interpretations illustrate sexual union as both a physical and spiritual union, crucial for personal and relational growth.
Synonyms: Coitus, Intercourse, Copulation, Intimacy, Sexual congress, Congress, Joining, Union, Sexual activity.
In Dutch: Seksuele vereniging; In Finnish: Seksuaalinen liitto; In Spanish: Uni贸n sexual; In German: Sexuelle Vereinigung
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 union'
Sexual union in Buddhism signifies a sacred act merging physical and spiritual dimensions, representing connection, duality, and a pathway to enlightenment. It involves ritualistic, intimate practices with the potential for profound spiritual realization and union with divine energies.
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) The act between parents which is one of the necessary conditions for conception.[1]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Refers to the concept of meditation on yab yum deities that is stated not to occur.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Sexual union'
In Hinduism, Sexual union encompasses various interpretations, including intimate acts promoting lineage or virtue, physical relationships with moral implications, and the significance of pleasure, all governed by cultural and spiritual contexts, as reflected in sacred texts.
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) The act of engaging in sexual relations, which is often a key focus of the interactions described.[3] (2) The act of sexual intercourse or intimacy; classified in various types in the Ratirahasya.[4] (3) The central theme of pleasure explored in various Sanskrit texts, including Meghaduta and Kumarasambhava.[5] (4) The various intimate acts shared by partners, initially detailed through different forms of physical affection in the text.[6] (5) Different types of sexual connections between individuals, described within the verses of Ratikallolini.[7]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The act resulting in the creation of mixed castes through the coupling of individuals from differing social orders.[8] (2) The act of engaging in sexual relations, specifically in the context of the text involving a woman who is barren.[9] (3) The act or desire pertaining to intimate relationships, emphasized as a powerful and unavoidable force.[10]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The encounter between Mahi and her son Sanajjata, during which they did not recognize each other.[11]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) The act of joining physically in a sexual relationship, governed by specific rules and timing.[12] (2) The act of engaging in sexual intercourse, described here as being possible with enhanced vigor and energy from specific remedies.[13]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) The act of sexual intercourse that leads to the possibility of conception.[14]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The biological and physical act of mating, which is typically associated with the generation of offspring in various cultures.[15]
Jain concept of 'Sexual union'
In Jainism, Sexual union is interpreted as the act of sexual coming together, reflecting both human experiences and those of celestial beings, highlighting the shared nature of this experience across different realms.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The act of coming together sexually, which celestial beings partake in similar to human experiences.[16]
The concept of Sexual union in local and regional sources
Sexual union denotes the consensual engagement of individuals in a romantic relationship, embodying intimacy and partnership. It highlights the emotional and physical connection formed between partners in a shared, mutually agreed context.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The consensual coming together of individuals, often in a romantic context, symbolizing intimacy and partnership.[17]