ABSTRACT
This chapter examines Theravada and Zen schools, both in general terms and through an indepth examination of the opinions which some leading contemporary Buddhist spokesmen of both groups hold on the matter. The Theravadin stance is found to be that sexual activity is something to be ultimately transcended in the attainment of Nibbana. The chapter examines the attitudes towards human sexuality held by two contemporary branches of the Buddhist religion, namely Theravada and Zen. The issue of what the religious attitude towards sexuality should be has proved to be a deeply divisive issue in many, if not all religious traditions, and Buddhism is no exception to this rule. The two traditions which have been chosen, moreover, are not obscure sects which hold little relevance for the wider religious world, but are both vital faiths which have in recent years expanded their influence to the Western world.
