From a religious point of view, the Bible addresses various aspects of marriage, including the mutual responsibilities of husbands and wives towards each other. Still, it does not specifically address the issue of a wife withholding sex from her husband in the terms modern discussions might frame it. However, some passages discuss the mutual duties of husbands and wives, including those related to sexual relations within marriage.

One of the most direct passages related to marital duties is found in 1 Corinthians 7:3-5 (NIV):

“3 The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. 4 The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife. 5 Do not deprive each other except perhaps by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer; then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.”

This passage emphasizes the importance of mutual consent and responsibility in marital relations, including sexual intimacy. It advises against depriving each other of sexual relations, except by mutual agreement for a temporary period, for spiritual purposes like prayer. The overarching theme is one of mutual care, respect, and responsibility to meet each other’s needs within the marriage.

It’s important to note that the Bible’s teachings on marriage are interpreted and applied in various ways by different Christian denominations and communities. Discussions about marital duties, including sexual relations, are often approached with the broader biblical principles of love, respect, and consideration for one another’s needs and well-being in mind.

The legal perspective on marital relationships, including issues related to withholding sex within a marriage, varies significantly by jurisdiction. In general, modern legal systems in many countries focus on the principles of consent and autonomy within marriage, moving away from older legal frameworks that impose marital duties of a sexual nature enforceable by law.

Consent and Autonomy
In most Western legal systems today, both partners in a marriage have equal rights regarding sexual relations, with consent being a crucial element. The concept of marital rape, where one spouse forces sexual relations on the other without their consent, is recognized and criminalized in numerous jurisdictions, highlighting the importance of consent within marriage.

No Legal Obligation for Marital Duties
There is generally no legal obligation for spouses to engage in sexual activity. Laws typically do not dictate the frequency or conditions under which married partners have sex. The legal focus is on protecting individuals’ rights to bodily autonomy and consent rather than enforcing marital duties of a sexual nature.

Legal Recourse and Marital Issues
While withholding sex in a marriage may lead to personal and relational distress, it is not treated as a legal issue but rather as a private matter between the spouses. Couples facing such difficulties are often encouraged to seek marriage counseling or therapy to address their issues. In cases where marital discord leads to separation or divorce, the reasons for the breakdown of the marriage, including issues related to sex, may be considered in the legal proceedings, but these considerations vary widely among different legal systems.

Specific Laws and Cultural Contexts
It’s important to note that specific laws and cultural contexts can influence how such matters are perceived and addressed legally. Some jurisdictions might have unique legal provisions related to marriage and sexual relations, reflecting the cultural and religious norms of the region.

Conclusion

The modern legal stance in many countries emphasizes respect for individual autonomy, consent, and equality within marriage. Legal systems typically do not enforce sexual relations within marriage through the law, focusing instead on protecting individuals from coercion and violence. For specific legal advice or information about the laws in a particular jurisdiction, consulting a legal professional is recommended. Whatever you do, never force your wife into having sex with you.

References

Although these references provided are generalized, they are all I could find within the time that this article was written. They highlight the types of courses that can provide authoritative support on the topic of sex starvation and denial. Remember to consult a legal professional to get proper advice on your unique situation.

• United Nations Declarations and Conventions: For example, the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women (1993) emphasizes the importance of consent and recognizes marital rape as a form of violence against women.
• Journals like the “Journal of Marriage and Family” or “Family Law Quarterly” contain empirical studies and analysis on marital relations, including the legal implications of withholding sex in marriage.
• The landmark case of R v R (1991) in the UK established that rape within marriage is a criminal offense, reflecting a shift towards recognizing the autonomy and consent of individuals within marriage. Similarly, in the United States, individual states have statutes that address marital rape, marking a significant evolution in how the law perceives consent within marriage.