It is difficult to believe in a religion that places such a high premium on chastity and virginity.

It is difficult to believe in a religion that places such a high premium on chastity and virginity.

Like the stain'd web that whitens in the sun,
Grow pure by being purely shone upon.

Like the stain'd web that whitens in the sun,
Grow pure by being purely shone upon.

A nun of winter's sisterhood kisses not more religiously; the
very ice of chastity is in them.

A nun of winter's sisterhood kisses not more religiously; the
very ice of chastity is in them.

Even from the body's purity, the mind
Receives a secret sympathetic aid.

Even from the body's purity, the mind
Receives a secret sympathetic aid.

As pure as a pearl,
And as perfect: a noble and innocent girl.

As pure as a pearl,
And as perfect: a noble and innocent girl.

The noble sister of Publicola,
The moon of Rome, chaste as the icicle
That's curded by the read more

The noble sister of Publicola,
The moon of Rome, chaste as the icicle
That's curded by the frost from purest snow
And hangs on Dian's temple--dear Valeria!

There's a woman like a dew-drop,
She's so purer than the purest.

There's a woman like a dew-drop,
She's so purer than the purest.

So dear to Heaven is saintly chastity,
That, when a soul is found sincerely so,
A thousand read more

So dear to Heaven is saintly chastity,
That, when a soul is found sincerely so,
A thousand liveried angels lacky her,
Driving far off each thing of sin and guilt.

Give me chastity and continence, but not yet.

Give me chastity and continence, but not yet.