Sex and religion:Most religions address the question of a "proper" role for sexuality in human interactions. Different religions have different codes of sexual morality, which regulate sexual activity or assign normative values to certain sexually charged actions or thoughts.
Some cultures discriminate against sexual contact outside of marriage although it is widely practiced. Extramarital sexual activity is strictly forbidden by Islamic and Jewish law.
Christianity:
In Christianity, there are wide ranging views on what constitutes acceptable standards of sexual conduct from today's Christian denominations. Virtually all modern Christians agree that extramarital affairs are clearly forbidden by the Bible. However, there are increasingly differing views on the interpretation of Bible passages dealing with the acceptability of homosexuality, divorce and remarriage, and premarital sex.
Islam:Most forms of sexual contact within a marriage are allowed. Sex is considered a pleasurable, even spiritual activity, and a duty. At least one hadith explicitly states that for a married couple to have sex is a good deed rewarded by God. Another hadith suggests that a man should not leave the proverbial bed until the woman is satisfied, a reference many say points to orgasm.
Adultery warrants severe punishment. Pre-marital sex is also considered sinful, albeit less severe. All shari'a laws regulating sexual conduct apply to both men and women equally, apart from those concerning menstruation. Same-sex intercourse officially carries the death penalty in several Muslim nations.
Judaism:
In traditional Judaism, sex and reproduction are the holiest of acts, permitting one to imitate God, "The Creator". There are, however, many boundaries and guidelines. Within the boundaries, there are virtually no outright strictures. Judaism forbids sexual relations outside of heterosexual marriage, maintains biblical strictures on relations within marriage including observance of Niddah, a prohibition on relations for a period including the menstrual period, and Tzniut, requirements of modest dress and behavior. According to Judaism, sex is a mitzvah (Gift from God) and should be explored and cherished.
