Is Anal Sex a Sin in the Bible?

There is no direct mention of anal sex in the Bible. Hence questions like: “Is there a biblical basis for anal sex?” and “Is it okay to engage in it in marriage?” are common among believers.

While it is true that Christian couples have no sex restrictions on what they can and cannot do in terms of sex positions and oral sex. Sex is the male penis entering the female vagina; anal sex is the penis entering the anus.

This post will discuss what anal sex entails between same-sex relationships and marriages and what Scripture says about anal sexual intercourse.

Sodomy

In the Genesis 19 account of Sodom and Gomorrah, a group of men attempted to rape two angels who had assumed the form of men.

The men of Sodom had forcible anal sex with the angels, which is a reasonable assumption. Although the men’s homosexual lust is evident, anal sex is not stated in the passage.

This biblical account inspired the words sodomy and sodomized. Sodomy in the Bible literally means “the sin of Sodom.”

Anal Sex in Marriage

Anal sexual intercourse (penis in the anus) between a married husband and wife is not expressly and specifically forbidden by the Bible.

However, Romans 1:26-27 indicates that God condemns the unnatural use of women. Reproduction or having children is God’s natural design for the male and female reproductive systems. 

We must understand that this verse refers to natural sexual intercourse (vaginal intercourse) between a husband and wife, in contrast to sexual activity between two men or two women. Furthermore, the verse mentions vaginal intercourse as God’s plan for sexual activity.

What Does the Scripture Say About Anal Sex?

God explicitly forbids male-on-male sexual activity in Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13. The message in Judges 19:22-25 also makes it clear that sexual activity between two males is sinful. The same message appears several times in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 6:9; 1 Timothy 1:10).

The Bible expressly condemns homosexuality as an immoral and unnatural sin. Rape is also strongly condemned in the Bible (Deuteronomy 22:25-27).

All forms of sex, which include anal sex, are sinful and immoral outside of marriage. Since the Bible does not mention or condemn anal sex within the context of marriage, it appears that anal sex falls under the “mutual consent” principle (1 Corinthians 7:5).

If anal sex occurs by mutual consent within the confines of marriage, there is no clear biblical justification for declaring it sinful.

To do anything against someone’s conscience is a sin; to be unable to do something in faith is a sin (Romans 14:19-23). Hence, neither husband nor wife should be forced to do something they are uncomfortable with.

Bottom Line

The Bible clearly condemns sodomy in the context of male homosexual rape.

While the Bible does not overtly condemn anal sex between a married husband and wife, it is asserted that it may not be a sin. However, based on Romans 1:26-27, it is recommended that anal sexual activity be avoided. God did not create the anus for the penis. He made the vagina for the penis.

While anal sex between a married man and woman is not sinful, we believe it is still inappropriate, even within the context of marriage.

Anal sex is neither healthy nor safe, according to medical experts. It increases the likelihood of tissue damage, infection, and STD transmission.

RELATED: Is Being Gay a Sin in the Bible?

Pastor Christopher Turk
Pastor Christopher Turk

Christopher was the lead elder/pastor of the local Christian church in Penticton, British Columbia but he was forced to close his church due to a COVID-19 impact. He has a dedication to serving his Lord's church and a pulpit competence that honors the legacy of his predecessor. Christopher is a passionate visionary for the Lord and His Kingdom! His church ministry background spans over 30 years of full-time service. Support Christian by buying him a coffee.

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