Let's talk about Matthew 19:12

[Utomobong]

Interpreting Matthew 19:12 literally involves considering the three categories of eunuchs Jesus describes:
Those born as eunuchs: Individuals with physical conditions preventing reproduction.
Those made eunuchs by men: Those castrated by others.
Those who made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven: Those who voluntarily chose physical castration.
However:
Early Christians debated the literal meaning. Some, like Origen, self-castrated, but this was a minority view rejected later.
Most Christians consider the literal interpretation of the third category, which involves self-castration, to be incorrect.
The context of Matthew 19:10-12, following a discussion on marriage, suggests a broader meaning.
The Greek word "eunuchoi" can refer to castrated men, but also to those dedicated to celibacy.
Jesus' focus appears to be on accepting the idea of remaining unmarried for the kingdom's sake, rather than on physical castration.
Therefore, a literal interpretation of Matthew 19:12, particularly the third category, would mean accepting self-castration, which is not the common Christian interpretation. Most commentators understand the third category as those who choose celibacy to serve God.


But me, I'm here to do it directly but through the use of depo provera

[WheelyFixed]

There has been a certain amount of debate over the years about whether or not Jesus was actually celibate - with particular question about Mary Magdelene... Even more intriguing is that supposedly there are some early 'Virgin and Child' statues dating back to the very early Christian era, (with contexts that clearly indicate that it is supposed to be Jesus and Mom) where it is possible to check the child's "equipment" - and it's FEMALE! (and no sign that it was altered after the statue was originally made)

There are also plenty of other religions that did castrations, particularly notable are the Cybele worshipers, who would have been operating in the same time and area as the early Christians.

We have had a moderate number of members on EAv2 that were seeking castration for religious reasons, I'm not aware of any others here on EAv3 at present...

Mathew 19:12 is commonly pointed at, as is the one about 'If thine eyes offend thee, etc.' Biblical interpretation is a guessing game at best IMHO, but I think there is some reason not to want to buy off on 19:12 being a "free pass" to get into heaven... However that is just my opinion.

Putting on the moderator hat for a moment, while religious discussion in general is discouraged, it is allowed in relation to castration. However there is also the rule that it is OK to talk about your beliefs, but not OK to proselytize... ("I believe in X" is fine, "You should believe in X" is not...) So far there have been no problems, and I hope there won't be, but I thought a mild reminder is appropriate.

WheelyFixed