Question Dear Rav2B,
What do you do if you purposely or accidently masturbate? I know you can do teshuvah but is there anything else? What if the seamen gets on your clothing or body or bed or wall? Do you go to a mikvah? Also, teshuvah is about feeling guilty and not doing it again, but its hard to stop and I'm trying to end my addiction. The fact that I'm trying to stop, count for anything? Thank you very much and email me back as soon as possible please.
Answer Max,
Good question. I suspect many others may have the same question, but are embarrassed to ask it. The requirements for emission of semen are the same regardless of the method (ie intercourse, nocturnal emission, masturbation). One must wash himself and his clothing and remain in his uncleanliness until sundown. A mikvah is the preferred method for cleansing ritual impurity but, depending on its availability and frequency of need, may not always be practical. When not, shower or bath and recite the blessing "Blessed art Thou...who commands us to wash with water after the emission of semen" once outside the restroom. Masturbation is frowned upon because of the wasting of semen. One must also be careful about what he thinks about while doing it and where it is done. One should also not accept aliyah or shake hands (or otherwise touch) another person while unclean. Sin is that which keeps us from G-d. Please read that phrase a few times and absorb its meaning and implication. If you are allowing masturbation to keep you from a relationship with G-d, either out of guilt or inability to participate in Torah study, etc., then you need to get your act together. We have the ability to subdue sin but we likewise must have the desire and willpower. Teshuva does indeed require not only sorrow but likewise improvement. Hope this helps. Shalom!
