Many assume that the solitude act of masturbation is inherently selfish and self-centered. However, it is no more inherently selfish than the sex act is inherently unselfish. Masturbation is not incapable of being self-transcendent.
The transcendence of both masturbation and sex depends more on one’s heart attitudes and spiritual maturity than the act itself.
The solitude of masturbation does not negate ones spiritual integration and wholeness of being. For the spiritually mature, this spiritual integration can remain in masturbation as much as it does in taking a solo retreat in the woods or over a cup of coffee.
The power of sexual energy may make this integration in masturbation more challenging in that there might be a strong tendency toward attachment. When this attachment happens with sex, it is call “romantic,” though partners might have made an idol of each other, expecting the other to be God for them.
In any case, the same energy that can lead to dis-integration can also be used for deeper integration, fostering wholeness and health.
Masturbation can be a selfish and superficial tension reducer, and it also be a self-transcendent and spiritually meaningful experience.
