What is so special about being naked?

Answer 1

Nothing is wrong with being naked, as long as it does not offend social standards. In some countries, areas are set aside for nudists.

Man was originally naked, but clothing became necessary once our ancestors migrated into the colder areas of Europe and northern Asia. It has been suggested that, since group leaders were often older and no longer had trim bodies, they began to realise that clothing covered up their physical limitations and, with ornamentation, could even enhance their appearance. Married men began to insist that their women be covered, so that others would not see their "private parts". Clothing became required socially, even in warm weather.

As this question is categorised under 'Christianity' from a Christian point of view, like the above, there is absolutely nothing wrong with nudity at all. Many Christians are also nudists (or, more commonly called naturists in Europe) in that they enjoy being in the nude, as nature intended, say, at a beach or in warm sunshine in their back yards. We came into the world nude and we will leave it in the same way.

The problems arise when nudity is equated with lust. I say 'lust' rather than sex, as most Christians regard sex as a God-given gift (just read the Song of Songs in The Bible to see what I mean) and meant to be enjoyed within a loving monogamous relationship, whereas lust is anything but. One can appreciate the male or female form without being sexually aroused, just as one would appreciate the beauty of a flower. So there is nothing wrong in that at all. However, lewdly gawping at a naked man or woman with letcherous thoughts is neither respectful to that person as a person, as it reduces them to nothing more than a body, and it can raise further problems in the long run.

It is only since Victorian times that we have had a problem with the human body in the West. For most of history nudity has not been a big deal. For example, in Biblical times baptisms were performed in the River Jordan, and it is highly likely that the person being baptised was baptised naked, both male and female. Some religions, however, still regard, especially female nudity as taboo. In Islam, as an example, the use of a burkha (a garment that covers the whole of the woman except for the eyes) is seen as a necessity by the male dominance in that religion to prevent other men lustfully looking on their wives. However, to the Christian - and to most others - this says more about the men's minds than about nudity itself.

Answer 2

I don't know, it depends on the person. It either can be you love being free and open with your skin, and love to let yourself loose...

Answer 3

Everything