I recently read an article about a Muslim cleric who declared rape in marriage is not possible as sex is part of the marriage relationship. You can read the article here.
As a Christian, female I must admit there was a time I agreed with this cleric. I struggled with the idea of marital rape. Wouldn't standing before God and witnesses and saying "I do" be considered consent? How could anyone prove otherwise? It's hard enough to prove rape when there is not an existing sexual relationship with the perpetrator.
The dictionary defines rape as an act of sexual intercouse that is forced upon a person. That suggests that every time a couple has sex, consent must be given.
At that time, I was surprised to learn that marital rape is a criminal act in all 50 states in the U.S. (and apparently is also illegal in Britain according to the article). A moral code can differ from our legal code of conduct.
I have come around to believe marital rape does exist and is a painful experience. Rape is a violation. The pain of the violation is not determined by whether the person was a stranger; or living in the same home and sharing a bed. Forced sex is rape. Period.
What do you think? Can rape occur in marriage or is the exchange of vows perpetual consent?
Sheri
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