Synergy ExplorersAnyone who studies sacred sex traditions quickly discovers that the term “tantra” encompasses a hodgepodge of conflicting precepts. Rather than trying to address them all, Synergy Explorers focuses on tantric sources that describe the benefits of conserving and exchanging sexual energy without orgasm. Precise source locations follow each quotation.

Quotations about “sacred sex” follow the list described above, also with source locations.

Note that many more quotations could be added. For example, the Kularnava Tantra verse (“Non-orgasmic sacred sexuality allows for the channeling of sexual energy for higher purposes”) has additional beautiful verses expanding on the central idea:

  • Verse 258: “When sexual union takes place between two individuals who are deeply in love with each other, this experience can be transcendent and illuminating.”
  • Verse 269: “Sacred sexuality involves complete surrender of oneself and merging with the partner, which can lead to an experience of oneness with the entire universe.”
  • Verse 261: “When the practice of sacred sexuality is conducted with the right intention and in a framework of mutual respect and love, it can be a powerful tool for healing and transformation.”
  • Verse 291: “By avoiding ejaculation and focusing on sexual energy, practitioners of sacred sexuality can reach altered states of consciousness and profound spiritual realizations.”

We’ve placed this page in this era because many of the earliest tantric teachings date from this period.

Sacred sex meant foregoing orgasm in most ancient tantra:

  1. “Non-orgasmic sacred sexuality allows the sexual energy to be channeled for higher purposes.” – Kularnava Tantra (ISBN 9788185787152, p. 50)
  2. “By withholding ejaculation, energy rises up the spine and allows for higher states of consciousness to be reached.” – Satapatha Brahmana (ISBN 9788121508902, p. 276)
  3. “He who is able to control the breath and the senses can acquire true knowledge. This is possible through the practice of sexual continence.” – Maitrayaniya Upanishad (ISBN 9780140441635, p. 129)
  4. “Sacred sexuality is the key to achieving mystical union with the divine” – Sir John Woodroffe, The Serpent Power: The Secrets of Tantric and Shaktic Yoga, ISBN: 9780486230580, p. 49
  5. “Tantric practice involves mastering sexual energy to attain enlightenment and liberation” – Lama Yeshe, Introduction to Tantra: The Transformation of Desire, ISBN: 9780861711628, p. 12

The gifts of sacred sex in general

  1. “Sacred sexuality can be a path to personal fulfillment, emotional healing, and spiritual realization.” – Nawa Yogini Tantra: Yoga for Women (ISBN: 9788185787428)
  2. “In tantric sexuality, ejaculation is considered a loss of vital energy.” – Satyananda Saraswati, Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha (ISBN: 9788186336144, p. 542)