The essence of chastity is not the suppression of lust, but the total orientation of one's life towards a goal

The essence of chastity is not the suppression of lust, but the total orientation of one's life towards a goal

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German theologian and pastor who lived during the tumultuous years of World War II, understood the concept of chastity in a much deeper and more profound way than simply the suppression of lust. For Bonhoeffer, chastity was not just about abstaining from sexual desires, but rather about the total orientation of one's life towards a higher goal or purpose.

Bonhoeffer believed that true chastity was about living a life of integrity and commitment to a higher calling, whether that be serving God, fighting for justice, or living in community with others. He saw chastity as a way of living in alignment with one's values and beliefs, and not being swayed by the temptations of the world.

In his book "The Cost of Discipleship," Bonhoeffer writes about the importance of living a life of obedience and sacrifice in order to follow Christ. He believed that true chastity required a willingness to give up one's own desires and ambitions in order to serve a greater good. This meant being willing to make sacrifices, endure hardships, and face persecution in order to remain faithful to one's beliefs.

Bonhoeffer's own life exemplified this idea of chastity as total orientation towards a goal. He was actively involved in the resistance against the Nazi regime, even though it meant risking his own life. He was eventually arrested and executed for his involvement in a plot to assassinate Hitler. Throughout his life, Bonhoeffer remained steadfast in his commitment to his beliefs, even in the face of great adversity.