Abstract:

The subject of nudity in Christianity has been dealt with in various aspects throughout history and has been the main subject of different fields. Some Christian mystics, especially in the Middle Ages, felt closer to God through the practice of nudity and bodily deprivation. The main problem with nudity, however, is the question of whether the coming of Jesus abolished Torah law altogether and whether this gave Christians freedom in the matter of nudity. With Paul's entry into the community, the belief that Torah law and sin had been abolished was emphasized. The Gospel of Matthew states that the Sharia has not been abrogated. By presenting a historical perspective on Christianity and the veiling styles of different groups, the article draws attention to the fact that the ambiguity of today's Christian law, some modern-era practices, and naturist communities further increase the debate on nudity. From this point of view, the article touches upon different views on nudity in Christianity, the different beliefs of some communities, and the reasons for the debates on this issue. During the preparation of the article, a literature review on the subject was conducted, and research publications and sources on the subject were analyzed. The historical-critical method was used to analyze religious texts, historical events, and different opinions. In addition, the ideas and practices of historical figures are included. As a result, it is seen that some groups, such as Paul, who believed in the abolition of the Sharia, were in disagreement on the issue of nudity due to these beliefs. Church laws were also not sufficient to resolve the gaps and inconsistencies. Because of such problems, some believers, such as naturists, Adamists, Franciscans, Anabaptists, and Quakers, have been driven to radical behaviours that clothing is not binding.

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