How Human Expression & Sexuality Relate to Gnosticism

Considered a heresy by mainstream Christianity, Gnosticism is regaining popularity, thanks in part to many archaeological digs, such as Nag Hammadi in Egypt, and cultural influences, such as the films The Matrix and The Da Vinci Code.

The real problem with Gnosticism is trying to define it and trying to set strict rules to it. However, in Gnosticism, a form of legalistic relativity is in control, where moral issues are largely held in the hands of the person facing the moral dilemma. Legalistic relativity holds that the grace of God and the holy spirit is what is in control of our experience, not rigid religious laws. Now combine that with human sexuality, and the question arises, "Are the Gnostics orgiastic libertines or sex-hating ascetics?" In my research, I will uncover this largely misunderstood group of people, both from antiquity and contemporary Gnostics.

Sexual Expression in Established Gnostic Life

The Gnostic believes that sex is not merely for procreation. The Gnostics believing that sex is a high form of lovemaking it is viewed as a playful, creative and intimate affair and so as long as the couple in question has love, respect and can honor one another in a committed relationship whether married or not, it is considered okay. We should consider those who are beyond a belief in marriage when we say committed relationship. In antiquity the Gnostics of old believed that marriage was necessary so that those with the "spiritual seed" might be born. Despite this advice, some members of Gnosticism practiced celibacy.

To the Gnostic the view on masturbation goes according to personal beliefs. However, the Gnostic viewpoint on a sexual lifestyle is that of moderation, if a sexual desire exists solely from lust than it is not right, such as meaningless promiscuity.