Faith
Integrity in Relationships
Question
Greetings, I have a boyfriend who confessed to struggling with inappropriate online content and has admitted to engaging in sinful behavior. He recognizes how serious this issue is and desires to stop, but he finds it incredibly challenging to overcome this temptation. Initially, I was more supportive and didn't press him much about it. However, as I thought more about it, I became deeply affected. My boyfriend, whom I am supposed to trust and believe in, has been looking at inappropriate content online, and I can't express how angry I am at the women portrayed. This situation has created distance between us due to my remarks (for instance, I warned him that going to the mall might expose him to inappropriate sights or told him not to look back at images of scantily clad women), which made him feel that I don't trust him. I understand that overcoming this urge is very difficult, especially in our generation, where one frequently encounters immodest images, even while just purchasing milk. Still, it's tough for me to accept that my friend is engaging in this sin. How should I approach this issue? How can I understand him better? What advice can I offer my friend? He mentioned that he is trying to gradually overcome this sin because if he quits suddenly, he fears he will relapse. Some rabbis have suggested disconnecting from the internet; how does that help? Are there insufficient sources to manage desires? I fear he might not overcome this before marriage, and I think our wedding might not happen soon due to various circumstances... Besides, I don’t want to feel that we are getting married just for him to relieve himself (even though I know that is not logically sound). I'm concerned that this will affect our relationship, as he may start comparing me to women he sees on the street or online, especially those who dress in ways that attract men. I've started to think that women are merely game pieces to men who seek them for physical release and enjoyment. I have become more aware of this phenomenon; it’s everywhere (internet, phones, newspapers, inappropriate situations in public, huge billboards of models, and even innocent messages from telecommunications companies). When I read sacred texts, there are frequent mentions of the male urge and how women seem to exist, among other reasons, to fulfill it. I know women have significant roles in life, but I have begun to feel that they are toys for men. I realize I’ve expressed many incorrect thoughts until now, but this is how I genuinely feel. Could the rabbi explain the nature of the male urge? Is it really that difficult? What is the status of women in this regard? How should women feel about this? Am I just thinking incorrectly or opposing nature and reality? How can one overcome the so-called 'competition' that arises among women regarding this issue?
Answer
You should know that the urge will not cease; urges exist within every person, but they can be controlled, allowing a person to find happiness in their lot. Regardless of the desire for physical release, it is advisable to marry at a young age and not delay due to financial concerns, studies, or any other non-objective reasons. I bless you with much success and that you merit to build a faithful home in Israel, a house filled with the fear of Heaven soon.
עברית
