Kiera Jefferson
The pamphlet Onania: or, the heinous sin of self-pollution, published in London in 1723 and reprinted in Boston in 1724, is a religious text that opposes masturbation, also referred to as self-pollution, self-abuse, onanism, and other terms. The anonymous author of the pamphlet reaffirms the contemporary religious belief that masturbation is a sinful act that leads to various physical abnormalities and diseases. The text also argues that masturbation results in a degradation of sperm and causes impotence. While the ideas presented in Onania are not new, the pamphlet gained international popularity and sold tens of thousands of copies, reflecting the prevailing attitudes towards masturbation in the 18th century.
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What You'll Learn
The pamphlet 'Onania'
The pamphlet Onania: or, The Heinous Sin of Self-Pollution, and All Its Frightful Consequences, in Both Sexes, Considered, was an anonymous 12-page anti-masturbation pamphlet that was distributed in London around 1712-1716. It was published by the private press of P. Varenne and is thought to have been written by the English surgeon John Marten, though it has also been attributed to a "Dr. Bekkers" or "Balthazar Bekker".
The pamphlet drew on familiar themes of sin and vice, warning against the "heinous sin" of "self-pollution". It claimed that masturbation would lead to various illnesses, such as disturbances of the stomach and digestion, loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, weakening of the organs of breathing, coughing, hoarseness, paralysis, impotence, lack of libido, back pain, disorders of the eye and ear, paleness, thinness, pimples on the face, and more. It also argued that masturbation would result in the degradation of the human race by giving birth to weak and sickly children.
Onania was a huge success, with over 60 editions published and translations into several languages, including Dutch and German. It tapped into 18th-century fears that the unbridled imagination, especially in children, could become a destructive force. The pamphlet included letters and testimonials supposedly from young men ill and dying from the effects of compulsive masturbation. It also advertised "miracle drugs" that could be purchased from the publisher, such as "Strengthening Tincture" and "Prolific Powder", which were expensive at 10 shillings a bottle and 12 shillings a bag, respectively.
The influence of Onania extended beyond its contemporary popularity. It was a significant influence on Samuel-Auguste Tissot's L'Onanisme, in which he documents the negative effects of masturbation on the nervous system. Additionally, the pamphlet is credited with popularizing the term "onanism" to specifically refer to masturbation.
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Self-pollution as a sin in both sexes
The term "self-pollution" is often used interchangeably with masturbation and is considered a sin by some religious groups. The idea that self-pollution is a sin stems back to a pamphlet called "Onania: or, the Heinous Sin of Self-Pollution, and All Its Frightful Consequences, in Both Sexes, Considered." This pamphlet, originally published in London in 1723 and reprinted in Boston in 1724, was written by an unknown author, although it has been attributed to the English surgeon John Marten and a "Dr. Bekkers".
The pamphlet argues that masturbation is a sinful act that will result in various diseases and physical abnormalities, such as epilepsy, hysteria, and weak jaws. It also claims that masturbation will lead to the birth of weak and sickly children and that it is a greater sin than polluting others. The writer of the pamphlet sees self-pollution as a sin that is often overlooked, with many imagining they have nothing to fear from it.
The religious beliefs reaffirmed in "Onania" were not new but rather a reproduction of already existing notions. The pamphlet encourages readers to buy remedies for the localised areas affected by masturbation and to seek spiritual and physical advice. It also provides an admonition to the youth of both sexes, as well as their parents, guardians, masters, and mistresses.
The idea that self-pollution is a sin has been perpetuated by religious figures such as St. Nicodemos of the Holy Mountain, who has considered the topic at length. St. Nicodemos stresses that self-pollution opens the mind and soul to demonic influence and is a path to self-seduction and the distortion of human sexuality. He also points out that those caught in the snare of this sin have great difficulty freeing themselves, endangering their souls.
The perspective that self-pollution is a sin is not universal, even within religious groups. Some Orthodox pastors, for example, claim that it is a small matter or something incidental. However, others argue that it is a serious sin, especially when it becomes a habit. Pastors dealing with adolescents who struggle with self-pollution are encouraged to exercise patience and careful guidance, helping them to understand that sexual urges are subject to control.
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Self-pollution as a sin against God
Self-pollution, or masturbation, has long been considered a sin against God. The anonymous pamphlet "Onania: or, the Heinous Sin of Self-Pollution, and All Its Frightful Consequences, in Both Sexes, Considered" was published in London in 1723 and is thought to have sold tens of thousands of copies. The pamphlet argues that masturbation is a sinful act that will result in various diseases and physical abnormalities, such as epilepsy, hysteria, and weak jaws.
The author of "Onania" reaffirms contemporary religious beliefs that masturbation is a sin and that one should abstain from it. They argue that masturbation will lead to the degradation of sperm and cause impotence. The pamphlet also warns that masturbation will result in the birth of weak and sickly children, thus contributing to the degradation of the human race.
In addition to the physical consequences, "Onania" also discusses the spiritual implications of self-pollution. The author considers it a sin that pollutes one's spirit and opens the mind and soul to demonic influence. St. Nicodemos, a Church Father, has also written about self-pollution, calling it a "snare" that imperils one's soul. He argues that self-pollution is a path to self-seduction and distorts the meaning of human sexuality, which is contrary to the pure image that humans seek to restore in their spiritual life.
Pastors and Church counselors have long recognized self-pollution as a sin and have worked to guide adolescents who struggle with this issue. They aim to help young people understand the nature of self-pollution, develop self-control, and recognize that sexual urges can be controlled. While some Orthodox pastors may downplay the seriousness of self-pollution, the Church considers it a grave matter, assigning penances such as exclusion from Holy Communion and daily prostrations for those who commit this sin.
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Self-pollution as a sin that leads to other sins
The act of self-pollution, often referred to as masturbation, has long been considered a sin by various religious and cultural groups. The term "self-pollution" itself carries a negative connotation, implying that the act is dirty or impure. This belief was particularly prominent in the 18th century with the publication of the pamphlet "Onania: or, the Heinous Sin of Self-Pollution, and All Its Frightful Consequences, in Both Sexes, Considered". This pamphlet, authored by an unknown writer, argued that masturbation was a heinous sin that would lead to various physical abnormalities and diseases. The pamphlet also encouraged readers to purchase remedies for the localised effects of masturbation, contributing to its popularity and influence.
The religious beliefs espoused in "Onania" reaffirmed existing notions that masturbation was a sinful act. It was argued that self-pollution was a form of self-seduction that distorted the true meaning of human sexuality. St. Nicodemos, a Church Father, emphasised that this sin opened the mind and soul to demonic influence, a belief that was shared by other religious figures. This perspective was not limited to a single denomination, as Orthodox pastors also considered self-pollution a serious sin, assigning penances such as exclusion from Holy Communion and daily prostrations for those who indulged in this act.
The act of self-pollution was seen not only as a sin in itself but also as a gateway to other sins. In the context of Christianity, it was believed that self-pollution led to a complete distortion of the pure image that humans strive for in their spiritual lives. This act was thought to open individuals to further immoral behaviours, as they had already defiled themselves and were, therefore, more susceptible to demonic influence.
The belief that self-pollution leads to other sins can also be understood through the concept of habit formation. Sources indicate that self-pollution can become a habitual act, especially during adolescence, a period of sexual self-discovery. Once it becomes a habit, it is difficult to break free from its snare, as St. Nicodemos points out. This perspective is further supported by the argument that individuals must recognise their habits as detrimental before they can be prompted to control them. Thus, the act of self-pollution, by its habit-forming nature, can lead individuals into a cycle of repeated sins.
In conclusion, the act of self-pollution, or masturbation, has been considered a serious sin by religious groups, particularly in the context of Christianity. It was believed to lead to other sins through the distortion of human sexuality, the influence of demonic forces, and the habit-forming nature of the act itself. While modern society may hold different views on the morality of masturbation, the historical perspective provides an interesting insight into the evolution of societal norms and the role of religion in shaping them.
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The physical consequences of self-pollution
Self-pollution, often referred to as masturbation, has been a topic of moral and religious debate for centuries, with some considering it a sin and others viewing it as a natural and healthy part of human sexuality. Regardless of one's religious or moral stance, it is important to understand the potential physical consequences that can arise from this practice.
One of the most common physical consequences of self-pollution is fatigue and a lack of energy. This is because the act can be physically exhausting, particularly if it occurs frequently or is coupled with other factors such as lack of sleep or a poor diet. The release of endorphins and the physical exertion can lead to a short-term energy spike, but this is often followed by a period of fatigue and lethargy. This can impact an individual's daily life, making it difficult to concentrate, stay motivated, or engage in physical activities.
Another consequence is the potential for sexual dysfunction. While self-pollution is often used as a means to relieve sexual tension and explore one's body, excessive or compulsive self-pollution can lead to issues with sexual performance and satisfaction. This may include difficulties achieving or maintaining an erection, premature ejaculation, or a decreased interest in sexual activity with a partner. These issues can impact an individual's relationships and self-esteem, and may require professional help to overcome.
Self-pollution can also impact the body's hormonal balance. The release of hormones during self-stimulation, particularly the surge of dopamine and oxytocin, can interfere with the body's natural hormonal rhythms. This can lead to issues such as decreased libido, irregular sleep patterns, and mood swings. In some cases, it may even contribute to more serious hormonal imbalances that require medical intervention.
Additionally, there are potential risks of infection and physical injury. Repeated self-pollution can cause minor tears or abrasions to the skin, particularly if done vigorously or without adequate lubrication. These injuries can become infected, leading to further complications. Furthermore, if the hands or objects used for self-pollution are not clean, there is a risk of introducing bacteria or other microorganisms into the genital area, potentially leading to urinary tract infections or other more serious infections.
Finally, it is important to consider the impact on overall physical health and well-being. Self-pollution may provide temporary relief or pleasure, but it does not promote the same health benefits as regular sexual activity with a partner. Engaging in self-pollution may detract from engaging in more physically active pursuits, contributing to a sedentary lifestyle. It can also become a coping mechanism for stress, anxiety, or boredom, leading individuals to avoid addressing underlying issues and developing healthy coping strategies.
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Frequently asked questions
Self-pollution is another term for masturbation.
Self-pollution is considered a sin because it goes against religious beliefs. It is also believed to have negative physical effects and is thought to open the mind and soul to demonic influence.
According to Onania: or, the Heinous Sin of Self-Pollution, self-pollution can result in diseases and physical abnormalities such as epilepsy, hysteria, and weak jaws. It is also believed to cause a degradation of sperm and lead to impotence.
Self-pollution can be difficult to stop once it becomes a habit, but with guidance and self-control, it is possible to put an end to it. Seeking help from pastors or church counsellors is a good first step.
