I want to start off by saying that this is essentially a compilation of various perspectives, nothing more than that. I’m of the view that, over time, a lot of knowledge was either kept secret or embedded within narratives that had to be deciphered.
There were also bizarre theories based solely on superficial observations. It’s like, imagine after a global conflict, a person from a tribe deduces that abstaining from ejaculation makes men wiser and physically stronger, and he leverages this idea to expand his clan and influence, undermine rivals, and deploy attractive women as tools to weaken his powerful adversaries.
Since this wisdom pertains to the very fabric of reality, akin to the forces of gravity or the simplicity of adding two and two, it’s bound to resurface time and again. And at each turn, those who scoff and those who practice it for months or years, even decades, will see it unfold before them. This perspective also aids in digging deeper into specific subjects.
Jews
Throughout history, Jewish society, much like other communities, strongly disapproved of male masturbation. Interestingly though, while the ban wasn’t up for debate, legal scholars found it challenging to pinpoint an exact scriptural foundation for this prohibition. Maimonides, a highly regarded figure, argued that the act couldn’t legally be punished by the court, given the absence of a clear, explicit command against it in the scriptures. When it comes to men, this prohibition was likely influenced, at least in part, by beliefs regarding the health effects of ejaculation.
Maimonides articulates this:
Semen constitutes the strength of the body, its life, and the light of the eyes. Its emission to excess causes physical decay, debility, and diminished vitality. Thus Solomon, in his wisdom, says: ‘Do not give your strength to women’ (Proverbs 31:3). Whoever indulges in sexual dissipation becomes prematurely aged; his strength fails; his eyes become dim; a foul odor proceeds from his mouth and armpits; the hair of his head, eyebrows, and eyelashes drop out; the hair of his beard, armpits, and legs grow abnormally; his teeth fall out; and besides these, he becomes subject to numerous other diseases. Medical authorities have stated that for each one who dies of other maladies, a thousand are the victims of sexual excess.
In discussions within Jewish teachings about masturbation, the taboo isn’t mainly framed around health reasons. Instead, the emphasis is on concerns regarding self-contamination, the loss of future generations, and the summon of evil entities. The scripture mentions Onan, who was slain by God for “spilling his seed,” a phrase originally linked to coitus interruptus but later extended by Jewish mysticism to include masturbation as well.
Following this scriptural reference, mystics argue that a man engaging in masturbation, thereby preventing his semen from potentially conceiving a child, commits an act seen not just as murder, but specifically as the murder of his potential offspring. This, they argue, situates him as a more detestable criminal than any other. Conversely, in the context of heterosexual interactions—even those not aimed at procreation—ejaculation is considered valuable and not deemed as an act of “murder” nor seen as amplifying malevolent forces.
Mystical teachings have often stated that involuntary semen discharge can produce demons, posing a risk not just to the individual involved in masturbation but to the community as a whole. These concepts are found in both folk and rabbinic mystical writings. For example, the protagonist in I.B. Singer’s short story “From the Diary of One Not Born,” declares: “I did not come into this world in the usual way. My father, studying in yeshiva, committed the same act as Onan, giving rise to my being, part spirit, part demon…I exist yet I do not.”
Presently, a significant number of Orthodox Jews continue to uphold these ancient views and restrictions, whereas Conservative, Reform, and non-affiliated Jews mostly reject them. The shift in belief is primarily due to modern medical understanding, which refutes the health risks associated with masturbation once suggested by Maimonides, and a general skepticism towards the old mystical warning of masturbation’s severe repercussions. So far, none of these Jewish movements have officially approved of masturbation, yet the traditional disapproval of the act is often overlooked in practice.
On another note, the Zohar emphasizes that demons originated from sexual relations between humans and demonic entities, borrowing this notion from a talmudic myth. It mentions that some demons, like Lilith, came into existence at Creation, specifically on the eve of Sabbath, as formless spirits aiming to acquire a physical form by associating with humans. This began with Adam during his separation from Eve and continued with his progeny.
Additionally, demons born from such interactions also crave this form of union. In the Zohar and later kabbalistic texts, the sexual dynamics between humans and demons are greatly detailed, sharing striking similarities with Christian medieval notions of succubi and incubi. This perspective, which diverges from traditional talmudic beliefs, suggests these demons can’t procreate on their own and thus depend on human semen to reproduce.
Ultra orthodox Jews
Young Haredi males are taught to urinate without making contact with their genitals. From the age of 13, every ultra-Orthodox boy begins wearing uniquely designed, extra-wide underwear that enables him to pee without direct contact with his penis.
In his documentary, “Sacred Sperm,” Gruder dedicates a significant amount of time to discussions with rabbis. These rabbis share insights into the serious nature of masturbation as a sin and how the ultra-Orthodox community addresses this issue through the education of its young members. This education involves guiding children and adolescents to suppress their natural desires for the sake of religious observance.
Greeks
Pythagoras educated his disciples, known as the Pythagoreans, on the significant alchemical attributes found in semen. Unlike the belief that he led a celibate life, Pythagoras was, in fact, married with children. However, he recognized semen as a crucial fluid, sharing its essence with our brains and our capacity for creativity.
He believed this energy is better preserved for mental activities rather than being aimlessly expended for mere enjoyment. A Pythagorean healthcare practitioner, Alemeon, proposed that by conserving semen, it can be converted into a sustenance for the brain, acting as a potential source of cerebral matter.
It was common for many thinkers to lead celibate or sexually restrained lives, including notable figures such as Plato, Aristotle, Leonardo da Vinci, Newton, and Beethoven, among others.
Muslims
In Islam, self-gratification, applicable to both genders, is deemed impermissible. This stance is supported by textual evidences. Firstly, referring to the Quranic perspective as highlighted by Imam Shafii, the prohibition stems from verses that underscore the sanctity of maintaining one’s purity, barring sexual relations outside the bounds of marriage or ownership.
The verses mentioned, specifically Quran 23:5-7, categorize any sexual acts outside these bounds, including self-gratification, as acts of transgression.
Further, Quran 24:33 encourages individuals, particularly those unable to marry, to remain patient and uphold chastity until Allah blesses them with the means for marriage.
From the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), as recounted by Abdullah ibn Masood, the Prophet’s advice to the youth was clear – marriage is the recommended solution for controlling sexual urges, and in its absence, fasting is advised due to its ability to reduce sexual desire. This recommendation directly discourages self-gratification, promoting fasting as a more virtuous alternative.
In addressing the habit of self-gratification, several pieces of advice are drawn from Islamic teachings:
- The intention to cease should be for the sake of adhering to divine command and fear of retribution.
- Marriage is highlighted as a definitive remedy, as evidenced in the Prophetic tradition.
- Occupying oneself with beneficial activities can prevent the development of such habits.
- Avoiding provocative material will aid in curbing unwanted desires.
- Utilizing free time in religious pursuits and avoiding conditions that might trigger the habit.
- Awareness of potential physical and psychological consequences is crucial.
- Dispell the misconception that self-gratification is a lesser evil.
- Strengthening determination and avoiding isolation, following the Prophet’s advice against spending nights alone.
- Fasting is promoted as a tool for managing desires.
- Observance of recommended bedtime rituals can aid in maintaining purity.
- Persistence in striving for chastity is encouraged, with the reassurance that patience will be rewarded.
- Continual repentance and seeking forgiveness are essential steps towards overcoming this challenge, with a reminder not to succumb to despair.
- Lastly, the ultimate recourse is seeking Allah’s mercy and forgiveness, with the assurance that such pleas do not go unanswered.
Throughout, the emphasis remains on adhering to Islamic principles as a means of overcoming prohibited behaviors, with patience, persistence, and piety as central themes.
Vedas and Yogic lore
Ancient wisdom from the SIDDHAS suggests that our sexual energy, or the force of life, can be transformed into higher energy forms known as OJAS and TEJAS. This involves a process where the individual elevates their generative power to the crown of their head (SAHASRARA), transforming it into SOMA, believed to be the Nectar of Immortality.
Through TANTRIC practices and the pathway of the “lymphatic system,” this essence ascends to the brain (CORPUS CALLOSUM) and is refined into incredibly fine energies, OJAS and TEJAS, which the elevated mind utilizes. Just as the physical brain relies on oxygen and proteins for optimal function, so does the superconsciousness demand large amounts of OJAS and TEJAS for its operations. The radiant energy,
TEJAS, is credited with creating halos seen around saints, while OJAS is known for imparting exceptional vitality, strength, and robustness.
“According to Yogic science, semen exists in a subtle form throughout the whole body. It is found in a subtle state in all the cells of the body. It is withdrawn and elaborated into a gross form in the sexual organ under the influence of the sexual will and sexual excitement. An Oordhvareta Yogi not only converts the semen into Ojas, but checks through his Yogic power, through purity in thought, word and deed, the very formation of semen by the secretary cells of the testes or seeds. This is a great secret.”
Romans
Back in the 2nd century AD, Galen, a notable figure in medical literature, discussed how he believed frequent ejaculation could deplete a man’s strength. He depicted semen as a mixture of blood (viewed as one of the body’s fluids) and pneuma (considered essential for the organs’ operation), which is produced in the man’s spiraled spermatic cords. According to Galen, this mixture turns white from the heat as it moves into the testicles. In his work “On Semen,” he cautioned that too much sexual activity could lead to a significant reduction in pneuma, thereby draining a man’s energy.
“It is not at all surprising that those who are less moderate sexually turn out to be weaker, since the whole body loses the purest part of both substances, and there is besides an accession of pleasure, which by itself is enough to dissolve the vital tone, so that before now some persons have died from excess of pleasure.“
Allowing pneuma to spread unchecked within semen could result in diminished vitality, sharpness of mind, masculinity, and the robustness of a virile voice. This concern is echoed in the Priapea. It was believed that engaging in sexual activities could particularly impact one’s vocal quality: to protect their vocal abilities, singers and actors might undergo infibulation. Quintilian recommended that any orator desiring to maintain a deep, masculine voice for appearances in court should avoid sexual encounters.
Gladiators were known to engage in sexual and sometimes romantic relationships with each other to satisfy their physical desires, doing so openly and without any sense of guilt. In fact, engaging in sexual activities between men was often regarded as a testament to one’s masculinity. As per Ancient Origins, it was culturally encouraged for men to adopt the dominant role in these interactions as a way to assert their virility.
Not assuming this dominant position could lead to a diminished reputation among one’s family. For these ancient warriors, engaging in oral and anal activities was seen as the highest form of bonding. Interestingly, receiving a fellow gladiator’s seed was likened to consuming the ambrosia of Jupiter himself.
It’s noteworthy that it wasn’t before 390 AD that laws against homosexuality were instituted under Christian emperors. Before this shift, the concept of “homosexuality” as a word or identity didn’t even exist.
Regarding personal pleasure, the Romans had a preference for using their left hand. A surviving piece of graffiti from Pompeii boldly states “when my worries weigh heavily on me, I find relief through the release of my built-up fluids with my left hand”.
The origin of the word masturbari in Latin is somewhat debated. Calvert Watkins suggested it might come from a Proto-Indo-European root meaning “marrow, brain,” based on ancient medical beliefs that semen was produced in the brain and traveled down through the bones. Despite the uncertain etymology, it’s speculated that the word turbare could have played a role in its Latin formation.
Egyptians
The belief was that the rising and falling of the Nile was directly linked to the creative powers of Atum, the deity responsible for creation, through his own seminal release. This idea encouraged Egyptian rulers to engage in ceremonial acts of self-pleasure over the Nile’s waters, aiming to guarantee ample water supply.
This practice of self-gratification was highly celebrated, particularly during the festivities honoring Min, the deity symbolizing the Pharaoh’s virility, where public acts of masturbation were common.
Similar to ancient Babylon, engaging in sex work was considered a sacred and honored profession, dedicated to the deities. In ancient Egypt, sex workers enjoyed a comparably higher social standing, unlike the present-day scenario in many countries where the profession is illegal and operates under secrecy. Despite the stigma attached to modern-day sex workers, those in ancient Egypt were free to openly express their profession, often using tattoos and red lipstick among other cosmetics to stand out from those not in the profession.
It’s crucial to recognize the distinction between public beliefs and the deeper, often contrasting knowledge held by the high priests.
Sambia people
At the heart of the coming-of-age ceremonies, which mark the transition into manhood, lies the belief that women pose a threat to men. To achieve manhood, a young male must distance himself from his mother and other female figures, demonstrating his ability to exist independently of them. This process starts when boys are taken from their mothers at the age of seven.
The Sambia people hold the belief that the essence of manhood, jurungdu, is found in semen. The transformation into manhood involves a series of stages where boys are required to consume semen through ritualized acts that involve homosexual activities. It is believed that by consuming semen, these boys absorb the virile essence necessary to transition into adulthood. Initially, these rituals involve the younger boys receiving semen. As they advance through various stages of these rites, their roles shift, and they then provide semen to those younger than them.
Chinese
In the practices of Qigong and traditional Chinese medicine, there’s a unique significance attached to semen, considered as a carrier of vital energy known in Mandarin as pinyin. This energy, referred to as “essence,” is something individuals strive to preserve throughout their lives.
The term “Jing” represents sexual vitality, which is said to diminish with each ejaculatory event, regarded by practitioners as a form of “energy depletion.” According to the beliefs underpinning Qigong, numerous channels exist within the body to direct energy towards the sexual organs, and ejaculation results in the expelling of this crucial energy.
Historical traces of Qigong can be found in the jin wen, or bronze inscriptions, dating back to the Zhou dynasty (approximately 1100—221 BC).
For adherents of this philosophy, indulging in masturbation is tantamount to committing “energy depletion.” The theory posits that during moments of sexual arousal, energy is rerouted through various meridians to the sexual organs. The climax followed by ejaculation is believed to thoroughly deplete this energy. The essence of this concept is encapsulated in the Chinese saying 一滴精，十滴血 (pinyin: yì dī jīng, shí dī xuè), which translates as “a single drop of semen is equivalent to ten drops of blood,” vividly illustrating the value placed on preserving sexual energy.
The Picts
About two millennia ago, Scotland was the dwelling place for a tribe known as the Picts. To the Romans, who had a strong hold over a large portion of Britain during those times, these tribesmen were simply uncivilized warriors, engaging in battles with nothing on but spears in their hands. However, the Picts were formidable fighters who adhered to the practice of semen retention.
Whenever the Roman Empire attempted to extend its territory into the lands of the Picts, they were met with staunch resistance. Despite the Roman legions being the most formidable military force to ever exist, they met their match in this uncivilized tribe.
The Romans were no strangers to victory when they set foot in Britain. They had a track record of overpowering every major civilization they encountered, effortlessly dismantling any resistance with their unmatched armor and weaponry. Yet, the Picts presented a challenge they had never before encountered.
Julius Caesar himself acknowledged the difficulty, stating, “Our foot soldiers were hardly a match for such adversaries.” True to his words, whenever the Romans took over a Pictish settlement, the clans simply relocated and regrouped, always ready to counterattack.
Taoism
Several Taoist followers believe that ejaculating too often can sap vital energy, leading to early aging, sickness, and overall lethargy. While there are some who argue for complete abstinence from ejaculation, others suggest a formula to figure out the healthiest frequency for ejaculation.
The core concept emphasizes minimizing fluid loss to suit one’s practice level. Over time, as these sexual teachings were handed down, some followers started to downplay the significance of ejaculation control. Yet, the principle of “semen retention” remains crucial in Taoist sexual practices.
Taoists have recommended various methods to avoid ejaculation. For instance, withdrawing right before climax, also known in more modern terms as “coitus conservatus,” or applying pressure to the perineum to hold back sperm. Although the latter might risk retrograde ejaculation if done wrong, Taoists believed it helped redirect vital energy upwards to enrich the brain.
Taoism introduces the concept of the Three Treasures, which explains the energy forms present in the human body and mind. These treasures are: (1) Jing, which is associated with reproductive or creative energy; (2) Qi, which represents the vital force; and (3) Shen, or spiritual energy. Jing, related to sexual vigor, is grounded in the reproductive system but is primarily housed in the lower Dantian—a vital energy center situated in the lower abdomen.
Witchcraft and random ancients
The ancient Sumerians held the belief that semen was “a sacred fluid, bestowed upon humanity by Enki”, the deity of water. They regarded the semen of a deity as possessing mystical powers of creation. According to Sumerian myth, whenever Enki’s semen was sown into the earth, it miraculously caused eight new plants to spring up, which had never existed before. It was also a common belief that Enki formed the Tigris and Euphrates rivers by masturbating and releasing into their barren channels. Similarly, the Sumerians thought rain represented the seminal fluid of the sky-god An, descending from the skies to fertilize his partner, the earth goddess Ki. This divine union was believed to result in the birth of all the earth’s vegetation.
In matters of love, it was believed that a man’s sexual fluids could play a role in crafting love spells. Josh Geller shared a straightforward recipe for a spell of passion that incorporates the use of semen:
“Masturbate to orgasm and preserve the resultant fluids. You should be concentrating on your desired result at the point of orgasm. Take some of the resultant fluids and insinuate a bit of them into the food or drink of your prospective victim.“
While a man might use his sperm to attract a female, on the flip side, it’s likely that countless women resort to securing a man’s sperm to exert dominance over him or ensure his loyalty. A favored method within hoodoo practices involves enacting a knot-spell on the man and safeguarding it within a nation sack. The sperm used can be freshly obtained, collected from an unused condom, or even preserved in a freezer for future use. According to various rootworkers who have shared their methods for sperm collection with me, it’s crucial for the woman to avoid reaching climax during this process. The rationale is to prevent her from becoming entangled in the spell herself, becoming a casualty of her own magic. “Keep your distance,” one woman advised me. “Ensure you don’t get caught up in it while you’re gathering his material.”
The similarity between the brain and sperm in terms of their contents of lecithin, cholesterol, and phosphorus is unmatched by any other two tissues in the body. Sperm contains a higher concentration of fructose, citric acid, semenine, and prostaglandins than found elsewhere in the body. It also boasts a higher zinc, ascorbic acid, inositol, glyceryl, phosphory-choline, and free amino acid content than most tissues. Its content of neutral amino acids is 33 times, acidic amino acids 28 times, and basic amino acids 57 times more than that of blood. Women might ingest bodily chemicals from male sperm, excluding prostaglandins, which can enhance their bodily chemistry and wellness.
In a tale I find particularly intriguing from ancient Egyptian lore, Seth attempts to establish his supremacy over Horus through seduction and subsequent intercourse. However, Horus intercepts Seth’s sperm with his hand and discards it into the river to avoid being inseminated by Seth. Horus then cleverly coats some lettuce, Seth’s preferred food, with his own sperm. After Seth consumes the lettuce, they approach the gods to resolve their dispute over Egypt’s rulership.
Beyond avoiding the loss and spillage of semen, consuming it can also offer spiritual advantages.
While the Old Testament refers to the bitterness associated with semen, as illustrated through the directive for a woman to consume bitter water (seen in Numbers 5:24), the New Testament presents a more positive depiction of consuming seminal fluid. This is evident in a dialogue where Jesus introduces the notion of “living water” to the Samaritan woman. During this exchange, Jesus mentions, “If you were aware of God’s bounty, and who is offering you water, saying, ‘Please give me a drink,’ you would have asked him instead, and he would have provided you with water that gives life.”