Hierophilia

Updated: JANUARY 18, 2016

Hierophilia is a fetish for religious or sacred objects, places, and people. People afflicted with these urges feel sexual arousal at the sight and feel of these things and people. They may fulfill these urges by masturbating with religious paraphernalia, such as crosses and church pews; or, performing sexual acts in places of worship, such as altars and confession booths.

More About Hierophilia

A few sex professionals claim that hierophilia is more common among religious people. Very few atheists deal with this fetish. This can be explained by the joy and general upliftment felt during religious rituals and the like. Being deeply moved during these encounters can encourage sexual arousal. Over time, a person may develop a conditioned response to these rituals.