Understanding The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' Law of Chastity

A guide to the principles and applications of sexual purity as taught by the Church.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Aug 17, 2026

Branched from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and LGBTQ+ Issues: A Doctrinal Perspective

Quick take

The Law of Chastity requires sexual purity before and within marriage.
Sexual relations are reserved exclusively for a man and a woman legally married.
It emphasizes fidelity, abstinence from pornography, and modesty in all aspects of life.
Adherence is seen as vital for spiritual growth, strong families, and eternal blessings.

The Law of Chastity, as taught by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is a divine commandment regarding sexual purity. It teaches that sexual relations are sacred and are reserved exclusively for a man and a woman who are legally and lawfully wedded. This law encompasses more than just physical acts; it's a principle that guides thoughts, words, and actions related to sexuality.

How the Law of Chastity Works in Practice

The principles of the Law of Chastity apply to all members, regardless of their marital status or attractions. It outlines clear expectations for conduct both before and during marriage, extending even to one's inner life and media consumption.

Before Marriage: Complete Abstinence

For those who are not married, the Law of Chastity requires complete abstinence from all sexual relations. This means refraining from any intimate physical contact that arouses sexual feelings. It also encourages modesty in dress, speech, and behavior, avoiding pornography and any sexually explicit material, and treating others with respect, free from exploitation or objectification.

Within Marriage: Total Fidelity

Once a man and a woman are lawfully married, the Law of Chastity requires absolute fidelity and loyalty to one's spouse. Sexual relations within marriage are considered sacred and are intended for procreation and for expressing love and strengthening the marital bond. This fidelity extends beyond physical acts to include emotional and spiritual loyalty, avoiding flirtations or inappropriate relationships outside the marriage.

Beyond Physical Acts: Thoughts and Media

The Law of Chastity emphasizes the importance of pure thoughts and clean communication. Members are taught to avoid pornography in all its forms, sexually explicit media, and crude or suggestive language. The principle is that our thoughts and what we consume mentally influence our desires and actions, and maintaining purity in these areas helps maintain chastity in behavior.

The Law of Chastity is considered fundamental to personal happiness, strong marriages, and healthy families. Adherence to it is seen as a way to maintain self-respect, build trust, and invite the blessings of God into one's life. It is also a prerequisite for participating in sacred temple ordinances, which are central to the faith's eternal perspective on family and salvation. By living this law, members believe they are preparing themselves for a greater capacity to love and for eternal progression with their families.

What counts as violating the Law of Chastity?

Any sexual relations outside of a legal marriage between a man and a woman violate the Law of Chastity. This also includes actions like viewing pornography, engaging in sexually suggestive conversations, or any intimate physical contact that arouses sexual feelings outside of marriage.

Does the Law of Chastity apply to those who experience same-sex attraction?

Yes. The Church teaches that the Law of Chastity applies to all individuals. While experiencing same-sex attraction is not considered a sin, acting on those attractions in a sexual way is. Individuals who experience same-sex attraction are expected to live a chaste life according to the Church’s standards, which means refraining from all sexual relations outside of a heterosexual marriage.

Why is the Law of Chastity so important to the Church?

The Church teaches that sexual purity is essential because it is connected to the divine power of procreation, which is sacred. Living the Law of Chastity helps individuals develop self-mastery, strengthen family relationships, and draw closer to God, enabling them to qualify for sacred temple ordinances and receive eternal blessings.

Is there forgiveness for those who break the Law of Chastity?

Yes. The Church teaches that through repentance and the Atonement of Jesus Christ, individuals can be forgiven for any transgression, including violations of the Law of Chastity. Repentance involves acknowledging the wrong, feeling sorrow, abandoning the sin, making restitution where possible, and living a chaste life moving forward. Depending on the severity, it may involve confession to a bishop or stake president.

Sources

Gospel Topics, 'Chastity,' The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Handbook 2: Administering the Church, 'Chastity,' The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints