First published 2000
Rabbi Shmuel Boteach tackles sexual taboos head-on, offering guidance rooted in Jewish tradition for modern relationships. Drawing from his counseling practice, he examines the emotional depths and hidden dynamics of sexual intimacy. Boteach illustrates his points through real-world examples of couples who have embraced what he terms "kosher sex" - intimacy built on love, trust, and genuine connection. He identifies two primary relationship patterns: best friends and passionate lovers, then shows how couples can blend the strengths of both approaches. The book provides practical advice for singles seeking compatible partners, individuals contemplating deeper commitment, and married couples facing bedroom difficulties. Writing in a direct, conversational tone, Boteach dismantles sexual shame while making ancient Jewish teachings accessible to contemporary readers seeking more fulfilling intimate lives.
Genres: adult, religion, sexuality, relationships, non-fiction, jewish
Vibes: intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: informed-consent
364 pages · Paperback · Pardes
Content warnings: sexual-content