New Perspectives on Biblical Views of Sex

In their recent publications, American scholars Jennifer Wright Knust and Michael Coogan have undertaken a critical examination of biblical texts concerning human sexuality. They aim to debunk the prevailing conservative Christian narrative that portrays the Bible as unequivocally endorsing only traditional marital relations.

Knust and Coogan express dismay at the dominance of conservative Christian viewpoints in shaping public opinion regarding biblical perspectives on sex. They argue that such interpretations oversimplify the complexity of biblical teachings and ignore the nuances within the texts.

Coogan's book, "God and Sex: What the Bible Really Says," released last fall, and Knust's forthcoming book, "Unprotected Texts: The Surprising Contradictions of the Bible about Sex and Desire," extract stories from the Bible to illustrate diverse attitudes toward sexuality. These stories range from Jephthah sacrificing his virgin daughter to the mutual devotion of Ruth and Naomi.

Knust interprets the "Song of Songs" as a celebration of extramarital love, free from societal constraints. Conversely, conservative theologians argue for a singular interpretation of biblical teachings, promoting the idea of sex solely within lifelong heterosexual marriage.

Knust and Coogan emphasize that biblical norms do not directly align with contemporary understanding of marriage. They highlight instances such as Abraham having children with both his wife Sarah and her servant Hagar, or Jacob marrying sisters Leah and Rachel, as evidence of the Bible's departure from traditional marital standards.

Coogan identifies pervasive patriarchal biases in biblical narratives and suggests interpreting them as the starting point for an ongoing journey towards equality and freedom for all individuals. He points out instances where biblical language may metaphorically refer to sexual acts, challenging traditional interpretations.

Knust and Coogan advocate for inclusive readings of biblical texts, recognizing the diverse perspectives and contexts within which these texts were written. They argue that by acknowledging the complexities and contradictions within the Bible, a more nuanced understanding of human sexuality can emerge.